China's Ministry of Railways passed regulation giving priority to the transport of needed agricultural, emergency and military supplies, raw materials and import and export products, the ministry said in Beijing Friday.

This is the first regulation of its kind in China.

Officials with the ministry said that the regulation should create "an emergency mechanism to ensure normal production and living of the nation and its people." The change should help balance the supply and demand and ensure smooth running for the economy and national defense, according to the regulation.

All railway departments must closely cooperate with local governments and other transport departments and companies, according to the regulation. Those who violate the regulation willbe punished.

Source: Xinhua