Counties constitute the third and lowest level of China's administrative hierarchy, with approximately 2,850 such divisions across the country. These units serve as the primary tier of local government responsible for implementing national and provincial policies at the grassroots level. Counties typically manage essential public services including primary and secondary education, basic healthcare facilities, local infrastructure maintenance, agricultural administration, and law enforcement. They collect taxes, oversee land use planning, and coordinate rural development programs within their jurisdictions. The county government acts as the direct link between higher-level provincial or prefectural authorities and township administrations, translating broader policy directives into localized action. County officials handle civil registration, dispute resolution, and the delivery of social welfare programs to their populations, which can range from tens of thousands to over a million residents depending on geographic and demographic factors.