Local authorities to listen to enterprises

The State Council has urged local authorities and government departments to better heed advice from enterprises and industry associations before making regulations related to the operations of businesses, according to a notice published on Wednesday.

The move is part of efforts to promote the transformation of government functions and further the reform to streamline administration, enhance compliance oversight and improve government services, said the notice. Authorities should make adequate efforts to solicit opinions from representative enterprises, industrial associations, chambers of commerce and lawyers’ associations in the process of making regulations, said the notice.

During the regulation-making process, the authorities should solicit public opinion through various channels, including the internet and media, and heed the advice of businesses, especially private businesses, labor-intensive enterprises and small and micro businesses, said the notice.

Authorities are also required to hold hearings and symposiums to guide businesses and chambers of commerce to hold adequate discussions to voice their opinions, said the notice, adding that the feedback from businesses and associations should be taken in full consideration by authorities.

During the implementation process, the authorities should set up a buffer period to leave enough time for businesses to implement new regulations.