Water budget management serves as a crucial approach to implement the “Four Water-Based Controls” principle and is essential for establishing a dual-control mechanism over total water use and intensity. Hebei Province's current planned water use management system aligns closely with the principles of water budget management in terms of administrative hierarchy

quota setting

structured allocation

surplus water market mechanisms

regulatory oversight

and digitalization. This paper analyzes the similarities and differences between the two management models and identifies the major gaps in terms of digitalization

dynamism

informatization

marketization

legalization and coverage. In response

the study proposes a strategic framework for transitioning from planned water use management to water budget management. Key recommendations include developing a digital quota management system

establishing dynamic adjustment mechanisms

promoting market-based trading

enhancing information systems

and strengthening legal and institutional guarantees are put forward. Priority tasks such as revising regulatory frameworks

expanding management coverage

and piloting structured water use allocation are also outlined.