Plans on administrative streamlining issued

The State Council rolled out detailed plans on administrative streamlining and transformation of government functions on Aug 14 to fulfill the tasks set at the national teleconference on administrative reforms that aims to optimize governmental services.

The plan, consisting of 36 tasks, covers major issues such as cancelling unnecessary administrative approvals, shortening times for necessary approvals, reducing registra- times for business start-ups, and deepening tax reform for enterprises. With several specific measures under each item, the plan also assigns related departments to lead the implementation and supervision of each measure.

According to the plan, the time for setting up an enterprise will be reduced to eight and a half days by the first half of next year and further shortened to five days within five years. Reviewing construction projects and customs clearance will be reduced by half within five years. A unified nationwide negative list will be introduced this year, and the government will further cut taxes and fees to create a better business environment and promote efficient increases in private investment.

In addition, internet charges should be reduced by more than 30 percent this year, including the goal to cut family broadband charges by 30 percent for private users and 10 to 15 percent for small and medium-sized enterprises, the plan said.

It also aims to boost market vitality via administrative streamlining and delegating powers, promote social fairness through innovative management, and provide convenience by improving governmental services.

The State Council urged all departments and local governments to actively undertake their tasks, explore new models and practices, and strengthen coordination to better carry out the plan.