China to Tighten Air Quality Rules That Have Helped Slash Smog

China is planning its first major tightening of national air quality standards since 2012, as it seeks to extend a largely successful anti-pollution campaign that’s reshaped parts of its economy.

New limits on a range of pollutants will be phased in from March and strengthened further in 2031, according to documents posted online by the country’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment. The stricter rules are intended to reduce health risks, support the ambition of “building a beautiful China” and align the nation with international best practice, the ministry said in a Tuesday statement.