China's agriculture minister is being investigated for suspected violations of law and discipline, the country's anti-graft watchdog said on Saturday.

Tang Renjian, 61, is under investigation for "serious violations of discipline and law" by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and National Supervisory Commission, CCDI said on its website.

The term is CCDI's typical euphemism for corruption.

It is uncommon for an official of Tang's rank to be placed under investigation without first being removed from the post.

Tang formerly served as governor of China's western Gansu province from 2017 to 2020 before being named minister of agriculture and rural affairs, according to official biographies.