Abstract: Analysis of the regional characteristics, development and use of drylands in China, shows that major problems persist: low soil moisture, poor soil quality, serious soil erosion, low productivity, deteriorated ecosystems under threat of further natural degradation, compounded by rising human and livestock population densities. However, these plentiful and varied drylands offer enormous potential for human development and use. Some successful remedial measures previously implemented in dryland farming include: preserving on-farm soil moisture and water resources, raising water use efficiency, applying fertilizer and using soil-water energy [what exactly is soil-water energy?] rationally, cultivating drought-resistant and lodging-resistant varieties, as well as rehabilitating deteriorated lands to increase their production. However, the environment in dry areas remains in a deteriorated state and the productivity of dryland farming remains low in reason of poor farmland policies. In order to rapidly increase dryland farm productivity, while improving, in the long term, the environment in these regions, the following recommendations should be implemented: (i) change present farmland policies, (ii) employ extension services to popularize scientific and technical advancements, (iii) research and develop new dryland farming techniques, and (iv) increase incentives for putting advanced farming techniques in practice. It is recommended to establish eco-agricultural regions, emphasizing a holistic management network over a wide area, with government support of technological advances and free training of extension personnel.