Read in Chinese

Speaker:

Mr. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and head of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Nov. 15, 2024

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This is a regular briefing on China's economic data. Today, we are joined by Mr. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and head of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS. Mr. Fu will brief you on China's economic performance in October 2024 and then take your questions.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Fu for his introduction.

Fu Linghui:

Friends from the media, good morning. It's my pleasure to attend today's press conference organized by the SCIO. As usual, I will start by briefing you on the main economic indicators for this October and then take your questions.

In October, economic performance maintained steady growth and major economic indicators showed a significant rebound. In October, under the strong leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, all regions and departments strictly implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adhered to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, and fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts. With the synergy created by the existing policies and incremental policies unfolding, major economic indicators of consumption, services and imports and exports recovered markedly, employment and prices were basically stable, social expectations continued to improve, high-quality development witnessed solid progress, and positive factors were accumulated. The national economy registered steady progress and recovery.

First, industrial production increased steadily and equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing grew quickly.

In October, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size grew by 5.3% year on year, 0.1 percentage point lower than that of September, or up by 0.41% month on month. In terms of sectors, the value added of mining went up by 4.6% year on year, that of manufacturing was up by 5.4%, and that of the production and supply of electricity, thermal power, gas and water was up by 5.4%. The value added of equipment manufacturing went up by 6.6% year on year, and that of high-tech manufacturing was up by 9.4%, which were 1.3 percentage points and 4.1 percentage points faster than the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size. In terms of ownership, the value added of state holding enterprises went up by 3.8% year on year; that of share-holding enterprises was up by 5.9%; that of enterprises funded by foreign investors or investors from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan was up by 2.9%; and that of private enterprises was up by 4.8%. In terms of products, the production of new-energy vehicles, industrial robots and integrated circuits grew by 48.6%, 33.4% and 11.8%, respectively. In the first 10 months, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size grew by 5.8% year on year, the same as that in the first nine months. In October, the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index was 50.1%, 0.3 percentage point higher than that of September; and the Production and Operation Expectation Index was 54.0%, up by 2.0 percentage points. In the first nine months, the total profits of industrial enterprises above designated size were 5,228.2 billion yuan, down by 3.5% year on year.

Second, the service sector accelerated notably and the modern services sector developed well.

In October, the Index of Services Production grew by 6.3% year on year, 1.2 percentage points higher than that of September. Specifically, that of financial intermediation grew by 10.2%, that of information transmission, software and information technology services was up by 9.5% and that of leasing and business services was up by 8.8% year on year, which were 3.9 percentage points, 3.2 percentage points and 2.5 percentage points faster than the Index of Services Production, respectively. In the first 10 months, the Index of Services Production increased by 5.0% year on year, which was 0.1 percentage point faster than that of the first nine months. In the first nine months, the business revenue of service enterprises above designated size grew by 7.2% year on year. In October, the Business Activity Index for Services was 50.1%, 0.2 percentage point higher than that of September. The Business Activity Expectation Index for Services was 56.2%, up by 1.6 percentage points. Specifically, the Business Activity Index for railway transportation, water transportation, air transportation, postal services, capital market services, ecological protection and public facilities management stayed within the high expansion range of 55.0% and above.

Third, market sales recovered rapidly and sales of new goods under the trade-in program accelerated.

In October, the total retail sales of consumer goods was 4,539.6 billion yuan, up by 4.8% year on year, 1.6 percentage points faster than that of September; or up by 0.41% month on month. In terms of different areas, the retail sales of consumer goods in urban areas were 3,925.5 billion yuan, up by 4.7% year on year; and in rural areas were 614.1 billion yuan, up by 4.9%. Grouped by types of consumption, the retail sales of goods were 4,044.4 billion yuan, up by 5.0%; and the income of catering was 495.2 billion yuan, up by 3.2%. Upgraded goods sold well. The retail sales of cosmetics and of sports and recreational items by enterprises above designated size grew by 40.1% and 26.7%, respectively. Driven by the consumer goods trade-in programs, the retail sales of household appliances and audio-video equipment, cultural and office supplies, furniture, and automobiles by enterprises above designated size went up by 39.2%, 18.0%, 7.4% and 3.7% respectively, which were 18.7 percentage points, 8.0 percentage points, 7.0 percentage points and 3.3 percentage points higher than that of September, respectively. In the first 10 months, the total retail sales of consumer goods were 39,896.0 billion yuan, up by 3.5% year on year, 0.2 percentage point faster than that of the first nine months. Online retail sales were 12,363.2 billion yuan, up by 8.8% year on year. Specifically, the online retail sales of physical goods were 10,333.0 billion yuan, up by 8.3%, accounting for 25.9% of the total retail sales of consumer goods. In the first 10 months, the retail sales of services grew by 6.5% year on year.

Fourth, investment in fixed assets increased steadily and investment in high-tech industries grew quickly.

In the first 10 months, investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) reached 42,322.2 billion yuan, up by 3.4% year on year, which was the same as that of the first nine months. Investment in fixed assets was up by 7.6% with investment in real estate development deducted. Specifically, investment in infrastructure grew by 4.3% year on year, that in manufacturing grew by 9.3%, and that in real estate development declined by 10.3%. The floor space of newly-built commercial buildings sold was 779.30 million square meters, down by 15.8% year on year, 1.3 percentage points lower compared with that of the first nine months; the total sales of newly-built commercial buildings were 7,685.5 billion yuan, down by 20.9%, 1.8 percentage points lower. By industry, investment in the primary industry went up by 2.5% year on year, that in the secondary industry up by 12.2%, and that in the tertiary industry down by 0.9%. Private investment declined by 0.3% year on year, and increased by 6.3% with investment in real estate development deducted. Investment in high-tech industries grew by 9.3% year on year, of which investment in high-tech manufacturing and high-tech services grew by 8.8% and 10.6%, respectively. In terms of high-tech manufacturing, investment in manufacturing of aerospace vehicle and equipment and in manufacturing of electronic and communication equipment grew by 34.5% and 9.4%, respectively. In terms of high-tech services, investment in professional technical services and in e-commerce services grew by 32.0% and 16.3%, respectively. In October, investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) increased by 0.16% month on month.

Fifth, imports and exports of goods grew quickly and trade structure continued to improve.

In October, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 3,700.7 billion yuan, up by 4.6% year on year, 3.9 percentage points faster than that of September. The value of exports was 2,189.9 billion yuan, up by 11.2%, and the value of imports was 1,510.8 billion yuan, down by 3.7%. In the first 10 months, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 36,021.9 billion yuan, up by 5.2% year on year. The value of exports was 20,802.8 billion yuan, up by 6.7%, and the value of imports was 15,219.1 billion yuan, up by 3.2%. In the first 10 months, the imports and exports in general trade went up by 3.9%, accounting for 64.1% of the total value of imports and exports. Imports and exports by private enterprises went up by 9.3%, accounting for 55.1% of the total value of imports and exports, 2.1 percentage points higher than that of the same period last year. Exports of mechanical and electrical products went up by 8.5%, accounting for 59.4% of the total value of exports.

Sixth, employment was generally stable and the surveyed urban unemployment rate declined.

In the first 10 months, the surveyed urban unemployment rate averaged 5.1%, which was 0.2 percentage point lower than that of the same period last year. In October, the surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.0%, which was 0.1 percentage point lower than that of September. The surveyed unemployment rate of population with local household registration was 5.1% and that of population with non-local household registration was 4.8%, among which, the rate of the population with non-local agricultural household registration was 4.7%. The surveyed urban unemployment rate in 31 major cities was 5.0%, which was 0.1 percentage point lower than that of September. The employees of enterprises worked an average of 48.6 hours per week.

Seventh, consumer prices increased slightly and producer prices for industrial products declined year on year.

In October, the consumer price index (CPI) went up by 0.3% year on year, 0.1 percentage point lower than that of September; or down by 0.3% month on month. Grouped by commodity categories, prices for food, tobacco and alcohol went up by 2.0% year on year; clothing was up by 1.1%; housing was down by 0.1%; articles and services for daily use was up by 0.1%; transportation and communication was down by 4.8%; education, culture and entertainment was up by 0.8%; medical services and health care was up by 1.1%; and other articles and services was up by 4.7%. Among the prices for food, tobacco and alcohol, the price of grain went down by 0.7%, fresh fruits was up by 4.7%, pork was up by 14.2% and fresh vegetables was up by 21.6%. The core CPI excluding the prices of food and energy went up by 0.2% year on year, 0.1 percentage point higher than that of September. In the first 10 months, the CPI went up by 0.3% year on year.

In October, the producer prices for industrial products went down by 2.9% year on year, or down by 0.1% month on month, and the purchasing prices for industrial producers went down by 2.7% year on year, or down by 0.3% month on month. In the first 10 months, the producer prices and the purchasing prices for industrial products both dropped by 2.1% compared with the same period last year.

Generally speaking, with the accelerated implementation of the existing policies and the introduction of a raft of incremental policies in October, the national economy showed stable growth trend with major indicators recovering notably and positive factors accumulated. However, we should be aware that the external environment is increasingly complicated and severe, effective domestic demand is still weak and the foundation for continuous economic recovery needs to be strengthened. At the next stage, we must follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, adhere to the principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, and fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts. We must take solid steps to advance high-quality development, accelerate efforts to create a new pattern of development, and redouble efforts to implement the raft of incremental policies, so as to consolidate and enhance the momentum for economic recovery and growth and achieve the annual economic and social development targets. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

The floor is now open to questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your questions. Please raise your hand when asking your questions.

The Paper.cn:

China's economic performance has been generally stable since the beginning of this year, but, due to the complex and changing domestic and international environment, there have also been difficulties and challenges. How do you evaluate October's economic performance? What are the highlights and positive changes? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Everyone is paying close attention to economic performance in October. Since the beginning of this year, the international situation has been complex and severe. Global economic recovery has eased up and the monetary policies of major economies have in turn entered the cycle of interest rate cuts. Meanwhile, the intertwining of trade protectionism, unilateralism and geopolitical conflicts has increased the uncertainty with the operation of the world economy. Domestically, the Chinese economy is in a critical period of structural adjustment and transformation. The transition between traditional and emerging growth drivers has been accelerated, and more difficulties and challenges that development faces have emerged. In response to these difficulties and challenges, the CPC Central Committee has made scientific decisions and has strengthened macroeconomic regulation and control. Especially after the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Sept. 26, relevant departments have intensified efforts to introduce a package of incremental policies, resulting in an enhanced rebound with economic performance and key indicators as well as improving market confidence. Main indicators in October showed a trend of "three rebounds, two stables and one boost."

"Three rebounds" refer to notable rebounds in market sales, within the service sector and with imports and exports. In terms of market sales, driven by the trade-in policy for consumer goods, total retail sales of consumer goods in October increased by 4.8% year on year, up 1.6 percentage points compared with the previous month. Specifically, retail sales of goods increased by 5% year on year, up 1.7 percentage points compared with the previous month. The retail sales of services continues to show strong momentum, with a 6.5% year-on-year increase for the first ten months, outpacing the growth of retail sales of goods. In terms of the service sector, it has demonstrated a noticeable recovery trend. In October, the index of services production grew by 6.3% year on year, accelerating by 1.2 percentage points from the previous month and marking two consecutive months of increased growth. This represents the highest growth rate for the index so far this year. Driven by incremental policies, significant recoveries were observed in the indexes of production of the financial sector, real estate industry and the wholesale and retail sectors, with those of the wholesale and retail sectors improving by 2 percentage points, and those of the financial and real estate sectors increasing by more than 3 percentage points and 3 percentage points, respectively. From an import and export perspective, despite a slowdown in global trade growth, China's goods trade competitiveness continues to emerge. In October, the total volume of import and export goods increased by 4.6% year on year, accelerating by 3.9 percentage points from the previous month. Exports grew by 11.2%, accelerating by 9.6 percentage points.

"Two stables" refer to the stable growth of industry and investment as well as the stability of employment and pricing. Industry and investment are crucial to support economic development. In October, both industry and investment maintained stable growth, playing an important role in the steady progress of economic performance. In terms of industry, driven by factors such as large-scale equipment renewal and industrial upgrading, the added value of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 5.3% year on year in October, maintaining rapid growth. Among them, the upgrading trend of manufacturing was obvious. Notably, high-tech manufacturing grew by 9.4% year on year, significantly outpacing the overall growth of industrial enterprises above designated size. In terms of investment, investment in key sectors has shown good growth momentum and has played a strong supporting role. From January to October, fixed asset investment increased by 3.4% year on year, maintaining a growth rate of 3.4% for three consecutive months, which indicates increased stability in investment growth. Investment in manufacturing grew by 9.3%, increasing slightly by 0.1 percentage point compared to the first nine months. Particularly, investment in high-tech manufacturing has grown rapidly, which will effectively promote industrial upgrading.

Employment and price stability have an important impact on the stable functioning of the economy. Regarding employment, the surveyed urban unemployment rate in October was 5%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month. The surveyed unemployment rate of the population with non-local agricultural household registration was 4.7%, significantly lower than the surveyed urban unemployment rate. In terms of consumer prices, influenced by a decrease in certain food and energy prices, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in October rose by 0.3% year on year, with a slight decrease from the previous month. The core CPI, excluding food and energy, rose by 0.2% year on year, expanding by 0.1 percentage point from the previous month, showing positive changes.

"One boost" refers to the boost in market confidence. With the accelerated implementation of existing policies and the strong introduction of a package of incremental policies, October not only saw a noticeable recovery in major production and demand indicators but also a boost in market confidence. This was reflected in active stock and real estate market transactions as well as with the expectations of enterprises and consumers improving. The real estate market saw an increase in new housing sales and a significant improvement in second-hand housing transactions, with enhanced market activities. From January to October, the fall in sales of new commercial housing by sales area and sales value narrowed by 1.3 and 1.8 percentage points, compared with the first nine months. The substantial improvement in October was the first of the year. In terms of the capital market, it also saw a significant trend in recovery. In October, the stock trading volume and turnover in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets increased by about 1.5 times year on year, making it the largest growth rate rebound this year. In terms of business entities' expectations, the purchasing managers' index (PMI) for the manufacturing sector was 50.1% in October, up 0.3 percentage point from the previous month. This is the first time that manufacturing PMI has returned to the expansion range since May of this year. In terms of consumer expectations, the consumer confidence index rebounded by 1.2 percentage points from the previous month, marking the first increase after six consecutive months of decline. These changes will greatly stimulate market vitality and drive economic upturn.

On the whole, under the influence of various policy measures taking effect, the national economy in October continued to make progress while ensuring steady performance, with significant rebounds in major economic indicators and boosts market confidence. However, it is also important to recognize that the international environment is still complex and severe while domestic demand remains weak, and some enterprises are facing operational difficulties. In the next step, we must implement the decisions and arrangements of the Party's Central Committee, intensify macroeconomic regulation, effectively utilize effects of various policies, expand domestic demand, strengthen innovation-driven development, consolidate and enhance the positive momentum of economic recovery, and promote high-quality economic development.

Thank you.

CCTV:

Since late September, the central government has introduced a raft of incremental policies. What role have these policies played on the national economic data in October? Also, how do you evaluate their performance? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Recently, various departments have rolled out a package of incremental policies to promote economic upturn. With the accelerated implementation of existing policies and the launch of a package of incremental policies, major economic indicators in October have shown a significant rebound. Social expectations continue to improve, the quality of development has steadily enhanced, and positive factors have accumulated. The economy is stabilizing and recovering robustly. It can be said that the combined effect of these policies has been effectively unleashed, yielding substantial results. These results can be summarized in the following four aspects.

First, domestic demand has seen further expansion. Since October, the implementation of the "Two New" policy on "renewal & trade-in" (namely, large-scale equipment renewal and trade-in of old consumer goods) and the "Two major" initiative on carrying out major national strategies and building up security capacity in key areas has continued to play a positive role in releasing consumption potential as well as stimulating investment growth. In terms of consumption, driven by consumer goods trade-in programs, growth rates in October for units above designated size in household appliances, audiovisual equipment, automobiles, furniture as well as cultural and office supplies have all accelerated compared to the previous month. These four categories alone contributed 1.2 percentage points to the month-on-month acceleration of 1.6 in total retail sales for consumer goods, showing clear results and a more significant improvement than in September. In terms of investment, driven by large-scale equipment upgrades, investments in equipment and tools increased by 16.1% year-on-year from January to October, driving the growth of total investments by 2.1% and contributing to investment growth's rate exceeding 60%. Meanwhile, as the "Two Major" initiative continues to gain momentum, the physical workload of related projects has gradually taken shape, which has also driven the recovery of investment in infrastructure. The country's investment in infrastructure construction rose 4.3% from a year ago during the January-October period, 0.2 percentage point faster than the previous month, marking the first rebound of recent infrastructure investments. 

Second, production has seen further stimulation. Improved demand has driven positive production trends in related industries. For instance, the production of consumer goods linked to trade-in programs, such as new energy vehicles and home appliances, has seen rapid growth. Specifically, the production of new energy vehicles increased by 48.6% year-on-year, boosting the output of related industries such as charging piles by 25.2%. In household appliances, products like air humidifiers, room air conditioners and electric heating appliances have all seen double-digit production growth. In terms of the production of goods for investment, industries and products related to equipment upgrades have experienced significant growth. In October, the added value of smart consumer device manufacturing and shipbuilding, as well as related equipment industries, grew by 18.8% and 16%, respectively. The output of special equipment for processing agricultural products, traditional transportation machinery for excavating and shoveling and special equipment for packaging increased by 54.5%, 28.4% and 19.2%, respectively. These situations also reflect a strong boost in large-scale equipment renewal when it comes to production within the equipment industry.

Third, confidence has seen a further boost. As the effects of the package of incremental policies become increasingly apparent, market vitality has increased and confidence among businesses, consumers and investors has risen. For businesses, indexes such as Purchasing Managers' Index for the Manufacturing Sector and Business Activity Index for the Service Sector returned to expansionary territories in October. Among them, the manufacturing production and business activity expectations index reached a recent high point while the non-manufacturing business activity expectations index moved into a higher prosperity zone, reflecting growing confidence with market development. For consumers, the consumer confidence index has risen for the first time after six consecutive months of decline. At the same time, the capital market has warmed up, with transaction volumes and amounts in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets reaching new highs in October. The growth rate of sales income from capital market services also has significantly increased by more than 10 percentage points compared to the previous month. Both of these reflect a gradual restoration of investors' confidence.

Fourth, development has seen further promotion. Overall, under the impetus of a series of policy combinations, the national economy in October maintained stability and saw progress, with momentum for economic recovery strengthened. At the same time, under policy support, the quality of development has also been steadily improved. In the context of updates to automobile scrapping and trade-in programs, most users have opted for new energy vehicles, driving a rapid increase in sales of new energy vehicles in October, with domestic retail penetration exceeding 50% for four consecutive months. Sales of high-efficiency, energy-saving home appliances compliant with low-carbon requirements have achieved double-digit, year-on-year growth, adding momentum to green development. Additionally, the "Two Major" initiative has strongly supported the construction of high-standard farmland, underground pipeline networks, urban renewal and other welfare projects, stabilizing growth in investment within the welfare sector. Moreover, the real estate market has been stabilized, local governments have been orderly progressing in their efforts with debt management, risks in key areas have been gradually resolved, and the foundation for safe development has been consolidated.

In the next stage, as various regions and departments intensify the implementation of policy measures, the effects of these policies are expected to continue to be felt. However, it must also be recognized that the external environment remains complex and severe, with the internal driving forces of the economy still needing to be strengthened further. We must further enhance our sense of responsibility and urgency, make full use of the comprehensive package of incremental policies, maximize policy effectiveness and promote a favorable economic rebound. Thank you.

Yicai:

This year's government work report set the annual economic growth target at around 5%. Based on the economic data for the first ten months of this year, what is your view on the fourth quarter's trend? Additionally, do we currently have the positive and favorable conditions to achieve the annual target? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. The realization of this year's economic growth target is of great concern. This year, in the face of complex changes within the international environment as well as new situations and challenges within the domestic economy, under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee, various regions and departments have strengthened counter-cyclical adjustments. As a result, the national economy has maintained a stable and progressive growth trend overall. GDP grew by 4.8% year on year in the first three quarters, laying a solid foundation for achieving the annual development goal. From economic changes in September and October, particularly in October, we have gained further confidence in achieving the annual economic development target. The confidence comes from several aspects:

First, the momentum for economic recovery has been strengthened. From major indicators in October, the service industry showed a clear recovery. The service sector production index in October increased by 1.2 percentage points compared to the previous month, representing the highest growth rate this year as well as a continuing acceleration in growth rate for two consecutive months. Driven by relevant policies, the financial industry production index accelerated by 3.7 percentage points while the real estate production index showed a year-on-year increase of 0.8% this month, marking the first time since June of last year that the industry shifted from decline to growth. Market sales also accelerated, driven by favorable factors such as the policy for consumer goods trade-in programs, the National Day holiday and early "Double Eleven" promotional activities. In October, the total retail sales of consumer goods increased by 4.8% year on year, 1.6 percentage points faster than the previous month, with retail sales of goods accelerating by 1.7 percentage points. With the recovery of market demand, the coordination between enterprise production and sales has improved. In October, the production-sales ratio of industrial products above a designated size reached 97.3%, up by 1.3 percentage points from the previous month, attaining the second-highest level this year. At the same time, driven by "Two Major" construction, infrastructure investments increased by 4.3% year on -year from January to October, seeing an acceleration compared to the period between January and September.

Second, the effectiveness of macroeconomic policies has become noticeable. In the face of new issues and challenges in this year's economy, the Party Central Committee has taken a comprehensive view, confronted difficulties, made scientific decisions and acted promptly. A package of incremental policies has been launched and is steadily being implemented. October was the first month after the introduction of these policies. From that month's data, we can see that the effects from these policies are beginning to show. Major economic indicators have seen a significant rebound, especially in sectors related to the "Two New" and "Two Major" policies, such as significant growth in sales of automobiles, home appliances and office supplies. Investments in infrastructure such as water conservancy, ecological protection and roads have also shown steady growth. In the next phase, as various policies are fully implemented and yield results, the combined policy effects will further emerge and the positive factors and favorable conditions in economic operations will continue to increase, providing strong support for the economic recovery and growth in the fourth quarter.

Third, confidence with marketplace expectations has seen a boost. Confidence is a key factor in consolidating and enhancing the momentum of economic recovery. After the recent series of incremental policies were officially launched, market activity noticeably increased. The real estate market has warmed up, the capital market has rebounded and both business and consumer confidence have improved. In October, the volume of real estate consultations and property viewings significantly increased, while the sales area and sales volume of commercial housing improved considerably. The trading volume and value on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges also grew sharply. The manufacturing's PMI and the service sector's Business Activity Index both rose into the expansion zone, and the consumer confidence index also showed an uptick for the first time in recent months. As long as confidence is present, businesses will be willing to expand investment and production, while consumers will be willing to spend, which will strongly drive economic recovery.

In the next phase, we will earnestly implement the Party Central Committee's decisions and arrangements, further strengthen the implementation of various policy measures and reinforce policy coordination, continuously consolidating the momentum of economic recovery and growth and striving to achieve the annual economic growth target.

Thank you.

Market News International:

How does the National Bureau of Statistics analyze the current real estate market performance? Have real estate-related indicators bottomed out? And what further policies are expected to promote the real estate market stabilization and recovery?

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. The real estate market is a hot topic that attracts a lot of attention. The Party Central Committee attaches great importance to the healthy development of the real estate market. At the meeting of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee on Sep. 26, it was emphasized that multiple measures should be taken to "promote the stabilization and recovery of the real estate market." Relevant departments have been working quickly to improve policies related to land, taxation and finance, focusing on the implementation of stock policies and the introduction of incremental policies, thus creating a comprehensive approach. As these policies are gradually implemented, confidence in the real estate market has been boosted and market transactions have become more active, leading the real estate market moving toward stabilization and recovery.

On the sales side, market vitality has improved significantly. Down payment ratios and mortgage interest rates have been lowered. Measures restricting house purchases, sales and pricing have been lifted, effectively ensuring people's needs for basic and improved housing. In October, the real estate transactions accelerated. From January to October, compared to the decline in the first nine months, the year-on-year decline in sales area and sales value of new commercial housing narrowed by 1.3 and 1.8 percentage points, respectively. This marks the greatest monthly improvement for the year. According to the sales situation in 40 key cities monitored, improvements are more significant in second-tier cities that previously experienced with greater price corrections. In October, monthly sales area saw growth and sales value's decline narrowed significantly. Driven by gradually stabilized prices, the sales value of first-tier cities in October realized growth. According to data from relevant departments, transactions of second-hand houses improved remarkably in October.

In terms of the prices, housing prices showed initial signs of stabilization. In October, among 70 large and medium-sized cities, four more cities, compared to the previous month, saw monthly growth in sales prices with new commercial housing, and eight more cities saw monthly growth in prices of second-hand houses. Among first-tier cities, the month-on-month decrease in sales prices of new commercial housing narrowed, and sales prices of second-hand houses ceased to drop and started to rise in comparison to the previous month. For second- and third-tier cities, the monthly decrease in sales prices of new commercial housing and second-hand houses narrowed to varying degrees. The recovery in sales and stabilization of prices have led to an improvement in the cash flow of real estate enterprises. In the first 10 months, the year-on-year decrease in funds raised by real estate development enterprises narrowed by 0.8 percentage point compared to the first nine months. Closely related to property sales, decrease in earnest money, advance payments and personal mortgage loans all narrowed by 2.1 percentage points.

In terms of expectations, the real estate market sentiment has improved. According to PMI data, the business activity index for the real estate sector saw an improvement of 2.5 percentage points in October compared to the previous month, and the market expectation index rebounded by 1.8 percentage points, indicating an improvement in the climate level of the real estate sector as well as in marketplace expectations. In October, a survey on property development enterprises and real estate agencies across 70 large and medium-sized cities showed that the proportion of surveyed employees anticipating stable or rising sales prices for both new commercial housing and second-hand homes in the next six months further grew from the already increased proportions in September by 17.6 and 15 percentage points, respectively. This indicates that related business institutions have a growing confidence in the real estate sector.

In general, a package of measures to stabilize the real estate market is proving effective. Positive changes in the real estate sector emerged in October. As the effects of these policies continue to unfold, the momentum driving the stabilization of the real estate market will be enhanced. Therefore, we are optimistic on the future development of the real estate sector. However, it should be noted that, after long-term rapid expansion, the real estate market has entered a new stage of development and will pivot from quantitative expansion to qualitative improvement to better satisfy people's diverse housing needs. Moving forward, we will diligently implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adapting to the reality of profound changes in the supply and demand relationship of the real estate sector. We will strictly control expansion, optimize existing resources and improve the quality of housing. We will coordinate efforts to refine policies regarding land use, taxation and financing to quickly foster a new development model for the real estate sector and to promote the steady and healthy development of the sector. Thank you.

N Videos at Southern Metropolis Daily:

We have noticed that the year-on-year increase in the CPI in October fell slightly compared to the previous month. What are the reasons behind this? How do you view the current price level? And what is your prediction for future development? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Impacted by fluctuations in food and energy prices, the CPI experienced a slight year-on-year and month-on-month decrease in October. Though, this monthly change is normal.

In terms of monthly changes, the October CPI was down by 0.3%, same as the previous month. Food prices had the biggest impact. The monthly decrease in food prices was 1.2% and this was the main factor causing the monthly decrease of the CPI. Prices for pork, fresh vegetables, fresh fruit and aquatic products saw monthly decreases ranging from 1% to 3.7%, accounting for 0.2 percentage point or around 70% of the overall CPI decrease. This was mainly because the prices for certain types of fresh food went up due to extreme weather in September, with the prices then falling in October as the impact of extreme weather disappeared.

In terms of year-on-year changes, the October CPI rose by 0.3% over the same period and was 0.1 percentage point lower than the previous month. The slower year-on-year growth is mainly attributed to the fall in food and energy prices. In October, food prices rose by 2.9% year on year, 0.4 percentage point lower than the previous month, accounting for 0.1 percentage point of a narrow CPI increase. Among all food categories, prices for fresh vegetables, fresh fruit and pork saw their year-on-year increases fall in comparison to the previous month. In October, the decrease in energy prices expanded by 1.6 percentage points in comparison to the previous month, which also contributed to the lowered increase of CPI.

Excluding food and energy, prices for most products and services remained stable or slightly improved. The core CPI rose by 0.2% year on year in October, 0.1 percentage point higher than the previous month, showing a slight recovery. Service prices rose by 0.4% year on year in October, 0.2 percentage point higher than the previous month. The rental of vehicles rose by 3.2%, presenting a small increase which was driven by holiday consumption booms during the month.

Overall, consumer prices remained relatively stable in October, with prices in some sectors exhibiting small increases that were driven by boosts in demand. In the next phase, China is expected to have a bumper harvest, and the supply of live pigs and fresh vegetables is expected to be stable. As winter and New Year's Day approach, food prices will likely stabilize at a slightly higher level. In terms of industrial consumables, energy prices could be impacted by import prices, although most products will be able to maintain sufficient supply and stable prices. Supply of services will be generally stable. As the economy improves, it will drive increased demand for services, thus drive up service prices. Considering all these factors, the CPI will maintain a trend of mild increases in the future.

Thank you.

CNBC:

Has the consumption sector seen a clear upward trend? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your question. Consumption is a matter of great interest to everyone, and has also emerged as a major bright spot in the economy. In October, the consumer goods trade-in program, the National Day holiday, the early launch of the annual Double 11 shopping festival, and the warming stock and property markets were among the major factors bolstering consumer confidence. In October, the growth rate of market sales picked up significantly, the growth of commodity retail sales accelerated, and service retail sales maintained fast growth, with consumption playing a large role in driving the economy. This was mainly reflected in the following aspects:

First, market sales accelerated significantly. In October, total retail sales of consumer goods increased by 4.8% year on year, 1.6 percentage points higher than the previous month. Commodity retail sales increased by a large margin, 1.7 percentage points faster than September. Sales of upgraded commodities registered fast growth. In October, the retail sales of cosmetics, and sports and entertainment goods by enterprises above designated size increased by 40.1% and 26.7%, respectively.

Second, the consumer goods trade-in program played a significant role in boosting market sales. Through trade-in policies in the automobile, household appliance, and home decoration sectors, the retail sales of household appliances, automobiles, stationery and office supplies and furniture by enterprises above designated size contributed 1.2 percentage points of the overall growth of retail sales in October, an increase significantly larger than the previous month.

Third, new types of consumption flourished. The fast development of new business models and forms, such as instant retail and livestreaming sales, boosted online consumption. In the first 10 months, online retail sales of physical goods increased by 8.3% year on year, 0.4 percentage point higher than for the January-September period. Meanwhile, with changes in people's thinking toward consumption, environmentally friendly and health-related consumption is booming, leading to strong growth in sales of relevant commodities. In the first 10 months, sales of NEVs and smart home appliances continued to grow quickly.

Fourth, service retail sales registered fast growth. Increased travel and robust cultural and tourism consumption during the National Day holiday supported the rapid growth of service retail sales. During this year's National Day holiday period, domestic trips and total tourist spending increased by 5.9% and 6.3% year on year, respectively, on a comparable basis; and the number of commercial performance viewers nationwide increased by 13.3%. In the first 10 months, service retail sales surged 6.5% year on year, maintaining a faster growth rate than commodity retail sales. Specifically, retail sales for transportation and information transmission service sectors both maintained double-digit growth.

Overall, market sales accelerated significantly and consumer confidence improved in October, which helped stabilize and boost the economy. However, factors that hinder consumption development still remain, such as limited consumer willingness and purchasing power. Next, we will actively promote high-quality and full employment, support sustained household income growth, give full play to the consumer goods trade-in program, and improve residents' propensity to consume. Meanwhile, we will strive to improve the quality of commodities and services, better satisfy the needs of upgrading consumption, and unleash the potential of consumption, so as to promote sustained and sound economic growth. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

How do you view the investment situation in October? You mentioned earlier that the cumulative growth rate of infrastructure investment rebounded for the first time in October. Can this recovery be sustained in the future? In addition, what impacts have the large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-in program, as well as the policies to implement major national strategies and build up security capacity in key areas, had on investment? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Investment is also an important part of the economy. In the first 10 months, although investment in the real estate was declining, China's overall investment scale continued to expand due to the large-scale equipment upgrade program, the innovation-driven development, and industrial upgrading and development. Investment in manufacturing and large projects grew rapidly; and investment in innovation continued to increase. All these supported the stable growth of investment and created favorable conditions for the country's high-quality development. The first 10 months can be categorized as follows:

First, investment expansion continued to stabilize. Fixed-asset investment (excluding rural households) rose 3.4% year on year in the first 10 months. The growth rate maintained at 3.4% for three consecutive months, showing a clear stable trend. We can see that investment has generally registered a downward trend so far since the start of this year, but it has been basically stable for the past three months. Large project investment played an important role in supporting investment expansion. In the first 10 months, the completed investment in projects with a planned total investment of more than 100 million yuan increased by 7.1% year on year, driving the growth of total investment by 3.8 percentage points and promoting stable investment growth.

Second, the policy effect of driving investment was reinforced. The policy effect of the large-scale equipment upgrade program has continued to manifest. In the first 10 months, investment in purchasing equipment, tools and instruments jumped 16.1% year on year, significantly faster than the overall investment growth. Such investment accounted for 14.8% of total investment and contributed more than 60% of overall investment growth. The steady progress in implementing major national strategies and building up security capacity in key areas drove the rebound of infrastructure investment. During the January-October period, investment in infrastructure construction rose 4.3% year on year, 0.2 percentage point faster than September, and marking the first rebound since March. As seen from the current situation, with the release of various policies and the recent progress in local debt relief, the infrastructure capacity of local governments will continue to improve, providing favorable conditions and a basis for the stable growth of infrastructure investment.

Third, manufacturing investment increased rapidly. Driven by industrial upgrading and development, investments in equipment manufacturing and consumer goods manufacturing registered a positive growth momentum, which supported the development of manufacturing investment. In the first 10 months, manufacturing investment increased by 9.3% year on year, 0.1 percentage point faster than the January-September period. In particular, investments in equipment manufacturing and consumer goods manufacturing grew 9.1% and 15%, respectively.

Fourth, investment in high-tech industries remained active. All localities have actively fostered and strengthened new quality productive forces, investing more in technological innovations and striving to stay ahead of the curve in industrial development, driving the growth of investment in high-tech industries. In the first 10 months, investment in high-tech industries increased by 9.3% year on year, significantly faster than the overall investment growth. Specifically, investment in aircraft, spacecraft and equipment manufacturing increased by 34.5%; investment in professional technical services increased by 32%; and investment in research, development and design services increased by 11%.

Overall, China's investment maintained stable growth recently, with the investment structure continuing to improve. Next, as the combined effects of existing policies and a raft of incremental policies become apparent, investment funding guarantees and project support will gradually improve, and the growth of investment is expected to continue.

Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Let's continue. Due to the limited time, we will take two final questions.

The Poster News APP:

What do you think of the highlights of last month's industrial data and the overall situation of China's current industrial production? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, China's industrial production has witnessed rapid growth, marking an important highlight of economic performance. Judging from the situation in October, market demand has picked up under the impetus of policies. Business expectations have improved, industry has remained steady and grown rapidly, and the manufacturing industry has upgraded and developed. The equipment manufacturing industry and high-tech manufacturing industry have played an important supporting role. This was mainly reflected in the following aspects:

First, the industrial sector maintained steady and rapid growth. In October, the added value of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 5.3% year on year, with a slight slowdown in the growth rate. The slowdown in October can mainly be attributed to the normalization of power production following a surge in September driven by extreme weather. In terms of the three major industrial categories, the growth rate of the production and supply of electricity, heat, gas and water declined, while the growth rates of the mining and manufacturing industries accelerated compared to the previous month. In terms of growth momentum, the market recovery in October led to an increase of 5.4% year on year in the added value of manufacturing above designated size, 0.2 percentage point higher than the previous month. At the same time, the pull of exports on production continued to be evident. In October, the delivery value of industrial exports above designated size increased by 3.7% year on year, 0.3 percentage point higher than the previous month.

Second, the industrial structure has been continuously improved. This is mainly reflected in the growth momentum of equipment manufacturing. Under the policy drive of industrial upgrading and the promotion of large-scale equipment renewal, production in the equipment manufacturing industry has maintained steady growth. In October, the added value of the equipment manufacturing industry increased by 6.6% year on year, continuing to outpace the overall industrial sector above designated size. Among them, the automobile manufacturing industry, the computer communications and other electronic equipment manufacturing industries grew by 6.2% and 10.5%, respectively. The development of the equipment manufacturing industry has not only supported rapid industrial growth but also contributed to improved industrial production efficiency.

Third, new industrial momentum is growing at an accelerated pace. Under the policy of high-quality industrial development, China's manufacturing industry is making a clear shift toward higher-end, intelligent and green development, with new growth drivers continuously accumulating. In October, the added value of high-tech manufacturing increased by 9.4% year on year. Among them, the output of integrated circuits and industrial robots increased by 11.8% and 33.4% year on year, respectively. The production of smart devices and green products continues to grow rapidly. In October, the added value of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturing industry increased by 41.9%. Meanwhile, the production of NEVs and solar cells grew by 48.6% and 13.2%, respectively.

Fourth, industrial sentiment is on the rise. Against the background of the accelerated implementation of a raft of incremental policies and improved market demand, the connection between production and sales in industrial enterprises has been strengthened, leading to a recovery in industrial sentiment. In October, the production and sales rate of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 1.3 percentage points compared to September. The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index has risen back into the expansionary range. The Manufacturing Business Outlook Index increased by 2 percentage points compared to the previous month, showing a significant rise.

Overall, in October, industry experienced steady and relatively fast growth, high-quality development progressed steadily, and new growth drivers continued to emerge. However, it is also important to note that industrial enterprises are still facing challenges such as low market prices and difficulties in improving profitability. Next, it is important to effectively implement various policies supporting industrial development, focus on expanding domestic demand, consolidate and strengthen positive changes, and promote high-quality industrial development. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Last question, please.

Red Star News:

The month-on-month decline in PPI narrowed significantly in October, while the year-on-year decline widened slightly. What are the reasons behind this? And how do you forecast the trend of PPI in the next stage? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. There is considerable interest in PPI prices. Due to the downward fluctuation of international crude oil prices and increased competition in certain domestic industries, the industrial producer prices in China decreased by 2.9% year on year in October, with the decline slightly widening compared to the previous month. Among them, industries that are more affected by international input factors saw a larger decline in prices, particularly in the energy sector. In October, prices in the oil and natural gas extraction industry dropped by 14.6%, while prices in the oil, coal and other fuel processing industries decreased by 13.9%. Both declines widened by 4.5 percentage points compared to the previous month. At the same time, technological advancements in some domestic industries are accelerating, and market competition is intensifying, which has led to a further widening of price declines. This has also had an impact on PPI to some extent. In October, the prices in the automobile manufacturing industry decreased by 3.1% year on year, with the decline widening by 0.8 percentage point compared to the previous month.

Although the year-on-year decline in prices slightly widened in October, the accelerated implementation of a raft of incremental policies has begun to show effects in expanding demand for relevant industries, leading to positive price changes in some sectors. For example, prices for steel and cement have stopped falling and started to rebound. In October, the prices in the ferrous metal smelting and rolling processing industry increased by 3.4% month on month, marking the first month-on-month rise after four consecutive months of decline. The prices in the non-metallic mineral product industry rose by 0.4% month on month, marking the first increase after three consecutive months of month-on-month declines.

Overall, due to the combined effects of the downward input of international commodity prices and domestic policies aimed at expanding demand, PPI remained broadly stable in October. In some sectors, there were even signs of prices stabilizing and starting to rebound. Next, to address the sluggish PPI trend, it is essential to actively leverage various policy measures, further expand domestic demand, and deepen supply-side structural reforms. This should include strengthening innovation-driven development, vigorously promoting capacity adjustment, and fostering a high-level dynamic balance between supply and demand. These efforts will help stabilize and rebound prices, improve business profitability, boost the confidence of enterprises, and contribute to the sustained and healthy development of the economy.

Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Today's briefing is hereby concluded. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Wang Ziteng, Chen Xinyan, Liao Jiaxin, Xiang Bin, Liu Sitong, Li Xiao, Wang Xingguang, Yuan Fang, Huang Shan, Ma Yujia, Zhou Jing, Li Huiru, Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, David Ball and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Zhou Jinqiang, vice president of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 Organizing Committee and vice president of the Chinese Olympic Committee

Mr. Han Shengjian, vice president of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 Organizing Committee and vice governor of Heilongjiang province

Mr. Wang Hesheng, vice president and secretary-general of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 Organizing Committee and mayor of Harbin

Ms. Zhang Haihua, deputy secretary-general of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 Organizing Committee and vice mayor of Harbin

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Oct. 29, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). The 9th Asian Winter Games will be held in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, in 2025. As we approach the 100-day countdown to the Games, we are delighted to have with us Mr. Zhou Jinqiang, vice president of the organizing committee and vice president of the Chinese Olympic Committee; Mr. Han Shengjian, vice president of the organizing committee and vice governor of Heilongjiang; Mr. Wang Hesheng, vice president and secretary-general of the organizing committee and mayor of Harbin; and Ms. Zhang Haihua, deputy secretary-general of the organizing committee and vice mayor of Harbin. They will brief you on preparations for the 9th Asian Winter Games.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhou for his introduction. 

Zhou Jinqiang:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning. The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics were successfully held under the strong leadership of General Secretary Xi Jinping, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, marking a leap forward in China's ice and snow sports development and making the vision of 300 million people participating in ice and snow sports a reality. The 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025, represents another major winter sports event hosted by China following the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. I would now like to provide a brief overview of some relevant points.

First, the continued growth of China's ice and snow sports in the post-Winter Olympics era.

This is primarily reflected in the wide scope of participants, extensive facility coverage, numerous events and strong influence. Driven by the Beijing Winter Olympics, winter sports have transformed from a niche activity to a mainstream one, with youth participation in particular rising significantly, bringing new vitality to the promotion of winter sports. Ice and snow facilities have overcome seasonal and geographical limitations, with continuous improvements in quality and diversity, creating a favorable trend of nationwide, year-round availability. During the 2023-24 snow season, a total of 82 national winter sports events were held across China, along with 21 international events. During the 10th National Public Ice and Snow Season, over 2,000 winter sports events were organized nationwide, sparking a new wave of enthusiasm for winter sports. Last Friday, on Oct. 25, the State Council executive meeting deployed measures aimed at stimulating the vitality of the ice and snow economy with the high-quality development of winter sports, which received a strong response. This will undoubtedly further unleash the potential for winter sports consumption and drive the high-quality growth of the ice and snow economy. With the continued progress of the strategy to expand winter sports southward, westward and eastward, industries related to winter sports culture, equipment and tourism are expected to flourish, making new contributions to building China into a country strong in sports.

Second, the national team is undergoing high-quality training and preparation for the Games.

The 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 will serve as a critical training ground for the national team's preparations in the lead-up to the Milan Winter Olympics, playing a vital role in identifying talent, strengthening teams and assessing our readiness. To achieve our goal of hosting a spectacular event and competing with excellence, we will field over 170 athletes across all 64 events, aiming for both strong performances and good sportsmanship. In training and preparation, the General Administration of Sport integrates promoting moral and ethical standards into daily management, adhering to the "San Cong Yi Da" training principle — which refers to a high-volume of scientific training, which emphasizes difficulty, strictness and realistic situations — throughout the entire preparation process. Leveraging the advantages of the new system for mobilizing resources nationwide, the General Administration of Sport and local authorities have jointly established multiple national teams for winter sports, enhancing overall training efficiency. In terms of athlete selection, we uphold openness, fairness and transparency, coordinating some events with the Milan Winter Olympics qualifiers, scientifically developing selection methods, and subjecting the process to public oversight to ensure the strongest lineup. Regarding sportsmanship and anti-doping, we increase our awareness of potential risks and of the lines that are not to be crossed, thoroughly reviewing potential risks and implementing targeted measures to ensure clean competition.

Third, high-standard work with the organization of the Games

We are committed to implementing the principle of green, inclusive, open and clean as well as the requirement to deliver a streamlined, safe and splendid game throughout the entire process. Currently, the venues have been designated. Five venues in Harbin will host ice sports competitions and eight venues in Yabuli will host snow sports competitions. Venue crews have been established, with skilled and experienced staff members selected for the venues' operations. Related preparations are progressing as planned. From September this year to January next year, the organizing committee will conduct 14 test events to assess venue operations, equipment and facilities, local support, and command and dispatch, helping gain experience for the Games. 

So far, over 1,500 athletes from 34 countries and regions have registered. We are looking forward to the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin and wish it a success. 

Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

Now, let's give the floor to Mr. Han. 

Han Shengjian:

Friends from the media, thank you for your interest in and support for Heilongjiang province's opening-up and revitalization as well as the preparation of the 9th Asian Winter Games, which will take place from Feb. 7 to 14 in Harbin, Heilongjiang province. The province has attached great emphasis on the preparation for the Games, and has established a leadership group under the main heads of the CPC Heilongjiang Provincial Committee and the provincial government. We will earnestly implement General Secretary Xi Jinping's important directives on sports, uphold the concept of hosting a "green, inclusive, open and clean" game, and implement the requirements of delivering a "streamlined, safe and splendid" game. With strong support from the General Administration of Sport of China and other organizing committee units as well as other parties, the organizing work has been pushed forward with high standard, high quality and high efficiency. Next, I will focus on three aspects. 

In terms of venues, all the venues are now ready to go. Balancing the needs of the Games with post-event use, we adhere to the principles of greenness and frugality. All 13 venues use energy-saving, environment-friendly materials, green, low-carbon technology and are existing infrastructures that have been renovated rather than large-scale construction. For example, we have renovated the Harbin Sport University's college students ice skating rink to serve as the ice hockey competition venue for the Games, which effectively saves costs and improves the institute's ice and snow sports facilities.

Currently, all renovations have been completed and have already passed inspections. We are now conducting all kinds of test events with real-game standards as well as advancing comprehensive, full-process and full-capacity pressure tests to ensure efficient event support. 

In terms of event services, we are building a professional and meticulous service support system. The Games will feature six major categories, 11 sub-categories and 64 minor categories. So far, over 1,500 athletes from 34 countries and regions have registered, setting potential records for participation in the Asian Winter Games. 

We have trialed the IT Command Center for the Games, established efficient and convenient procedures for foreign personnel's arrival and departure and published operation guides for the athletes', technical officials' and media's villages, along with service plans covering food, accommodation, transportation, healthcare and language support. Our goal is to provide all guests with a welcoming experience.

With cultural exchange, we are organizing diverse, unique international cultural exchange events. During the Games, we will host a range of activities such as Heilongjiang provincial intangible cultural heritage experiences, ice acrobatics, opera parades and a Lantern Festival celebration at locations like the Athlete Village and the Ice and Snow World. All these will help athletes and journalists from across Asia to understand Heilongjiang culture, fostering intercultural understanding and friendship.

The spillover effects of the Asian Winter Games are gradually appearing, with a surge of interest in winter tourism to Heilongjiang from Asian countries and regions. For instance, tens of thousands of tourists from Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia are expected to travel to Harbin on special flights this winter. We are deepening exchange and cooperation with Asian countries and regions in fields such as ice and snow economy, cultural tourism, and trade and investment, striving for mutual benefits and to further expand high-level openness.

We firmly believe that under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and with the joint efforts of all parties, we will complete all preparatory tasks and deliver to the world a great event that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian and spectacular. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Next, Mr. Wang Hesheng will make an introduction.

Wang Hesheng:

Hello, friends from the media! Thank you all for your long-term care and support for Harbin.

Following the 3rd Asian Winter Games (AWG) in 1996, Harbin is once again hosting the Games. Under the strong leadership and support of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and with the great help from the General Administration of Sport of China and other ministerial-level departments, we have been advancing all preparatory work carefully, smoothly and in an orderly manner, fully implementing the deployment of the Heilongjiang provincial Party committee and provincial government and stressing "simplicity, safety and excellence" as our primary guidelines.

First, we have optimized the urban environment. Various initiatives have been launched to enhance the city's environment, including repairing roads and bridges, upgrading pipeline networks and carrying out afforestation, environmental purification and landscaping projects. Illegal building and roadside stall businesses have been cleared, parking spaces have been created, and roadways and sidewalks have been opened up. Main streets like Youyi Road and Hongqi Street are now smoother. Over 4,000 kilometers of water, electricity, gas and heating pipelines have been upgraded, 1,683 hectares of green areas have been cleaned and 27 new parks have been established. The cityscape around the venues and the Songhua River continues to improve, with historical and cultural districts, such as the Central Street and Chinese-Baroque Historic Block, showcasing unique urban charm.

Second, we have enhanced hospitality services. 36 hotels have been designated for the accommodation, with social lodging resources including guesthouses, homestays and university accommodations fully utilized. Parking facilities of government departments, enterprises and public institutions will be shared to meet the demands from both sporting events and tourism. Various organizations have actively contributed to the preparation for the AWG. We have also coordinated with civil aviation and railway departments to increase flights and train services to Harbin as per event requirements. Over 6,000 domestic and international university students and experienced volunteers, including volunteers from Beijing universities, have been recruited to provide top-notch services for the AWG.

We have strengthened security measures. Focusing on building structures, environmental protection and food safety, two rounds of safety evaluation have already been conducted on the competition venues. All decorative materials used meet environmental standards, 69 food supply enterprises from 14 categories have been strictly selected and foodborne doping tests have been intensified. Weather forecasting and preparations for extreme winter conditions and road de-icing have been strengthened to ensure smooth operations during the competitions.

We have promoted social participation. Activities such as the "Four Doorstep Assignments" for merchants and hospitality service training across various sectors have been launched. A strong sense of hospitality and anticipation for the AWG is growing within the community. With 100 days left until the start of the Games, more than 100 ice and snow festival events, including the 2024-2025 Ice and Snow Season, the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival and the Winter Triathlon World Cup, will be held. Harbin Ice and Snow World will introduce new cultural tourism products to enhance the synergy between ice and snow tourism and the AWG.

Dream of winter, love among Asia. Harbin warmly invites friends from all over the world to gather in this winter wonderland to enjoy the excitement of the Asian Winter Games together!

Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Next, we will move on to questions. Please state the name of your news organization before asking questions. Feel free to now raise your hands.

National Business Daily:

We know that just over three months remain before the 9th Asian Winter Games take place. Could you please inform us about the organization process for the competitions and registration statistics of the Games? Additionally, what new changes can be expected in comparison to previous games? Thank you.

Zhang Haihua:

Thank you for your questions. The organization for the competitions of the Games is progressing smoothly and is in line with expectations. The competition schedule has been preliminarily set and 14 individual test events under the theme "Igniting Harbin" are underway. Two test events for men's and women's ice hockey have already concluded. Compared with previous games, the 2025 AWG feature the following three new changes:

First, the newly added sporting events get the most attention. Among the events planned for this Asian Winter Games, 31% of the sub-items are making debuts, including two speed skating events, one short track speed skating event, one curling event, three ski mountaineering events, nine freestyle skiing events and four snowboarding events. Notably, the three ski mountaineering events not only are new to the Asian Winter Games but have also been confirmed for the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics, making this Asian Winter Games a crucial testing ground for athletes who will compete in the Milan Winter Olympics.

Second, the participating countries are something to look forward to. China, Japan and South Korea will participate in all events. Cambodia and Saudi Arabia are making their debuts, competing in alpine skiing, snowboarding, speed skating, short track speed skating, figure skating and curling. Their participation will undoubtedly promote the development of winter sports worldwide and foster cultural exchange and integration among Asian civilizations.

Third, the enthusiasm for certain events has reached unprecedented levels. Curling has garnered the most entries, setting a new record for the Asian Winter Games. The number of participating countries has increased from six during the previous games to 16 in 2025. As a newly introduced event, ski mountaineering has already received registration from 10 countries and regions, which will promote the popularity and development of this sport. The event for alpine skiing has seen the most enthusiastic response, with 25 countries signing up, including many tropical countries from South Asia, Southeast Asia and even West Asia, like Nepal, Bhutan, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait. This demonstrates the rapid development in recent years of winter sports in Asia, especially since the Beijing Winter Olympics.

Based on the registration for the competition, we have reason to believe that the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 will further expand the reach and influence of winter sports in Asia, transforming "cold ice and snow" into Asia's "hot sports." Thank you.

Hongxing News:

Transportation services are not only the cornerstone for a successful sporting event but also a crucial factor in enhancing the experience for both athletes and spectators. What measures have Harbin implemented to better serve athletes and spectators? Thank you.

Wang Hesheng:

For this Asian Winter Games, there are two competition areas: one in Harbin and the other in Yabuli. As the Games coincide with the peak winter tourism season, transportation services will be an arduous task. We insist on systematic planning and careful organization, and strive to enhance the overall transportation carrying capacity, convenience and comfort.

In terms of aviation, Harbin Taiping International Airport is the official entry and exit port for this Asian Winter Games. Currently, 12 Asian routes, including flights to Japan, South Korea and China's Hong Kong, are already in operation. A second runway will be operational in January next year, increasing the number of aircraft stands from the current 91 to 181 and allowing for over 60 flights to take off and land per hour. Additionally, Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing Daxing International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport have been designated as official entry and exit ports. Other domestic ports will also offer dedicated convenience services for the Harbin Asian Winter Games.

In terms of railways, the infrastructure renovation projects involving Yabuli West Railway Station and Yabuli South Railway Station and the electrification of the Weihe-Yabuli South Railway have all been completed. During the Asian Winter Games, Yabuli South Railway Station will launch three special lines, allowing direct train services from Beijing to Yabuli; Yabuli West Railway Station will increase high-speed train services to 40 trips, running every 30 minutes on average, from the current six trips per day. Yabuli Railway Station has added six passenger trains to Beijing, Kunshan and other destinations. "Point-to-point" high-speed train services have been launched, connecting the Harbin downtown city directly to Yabuli. The carriages have been modified to include ski storage areas, providing great convenience for skiing enthusiasts.

In terms of highways, dedicated service channels for the Asian Winter Games have been set up at Harbin Railway Station, Harbin West Railway Station and Harbin Taiping International Airport. There are 46 shuttle bus routes from the airport and train stations as well as 36 local shuttle bus routes for the Games. A new Yabuli West Tourism Passenger Station has been built and the Yaxue Highway has undergone a complete upgrade. The section from Yabuli to the ski resort has been upgraded to a two-way, four-lane first-class highway, ensuring smooth connections between air, rail and road transportation. Whether it's railways, highways or airport upgrades, these improvements not only meet the demands of the Asian Winter Games but also provide great convenience for both future urban development and skiing enthusiasts.

In terms of transportation within the city, Metro Line 3 will be fully operational by the end of this November, providing access to competition venues, hotels and major attractions. During the event, 972 additional new energy vehicles, including methanol-powered vehicles, will be provided. Temporary bus services between venues will be introduced, and the operating hours of the metro and buses will be extended. Dedicated lanes for the Asian Winter Games will be scientifically planned to minimize the impact on daily travel for the public and ensure transportation needs during the event.

Thank you.

The New Times:

Anti-doping work plays an important role in ensuring fairness and justice in major sporting events. Could you please introduce the specific anti-doping efforts at this Harbin Asian Winter Games? And what specific measures will be taken next? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you for your questions. Anti-doping work is an important component of international large-scale multi-sport events. The anti-doping efforts for this Asian Winter Games are managed by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), which has authorized the International Testing Agency (ITA) to oversee the anti-doping testing, including the development of testing plans, therapeutic use exemption reviews, result management and information sharing. Additionally, the OCA has designated the China Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) as the sample collection agency and the Beijing Anti-Doping Laboratory as the testing agency.

In terms of doping tests, the Asian Winter Games will strictly implement the anti-doping rules and related regulations of the OCA to create a fair and clean competitive environment for athletes. During the Games, seven doping testing stations will be set up at competition venues and the athletes' villages. All athletes may be subjected to unannounced doping tests at any time and in any location. Additionally, 55 doping testing officials from China and abroad will be appointed for the Games.

In terms of anti-doping education, the Asian Winter Games will establish anti-doping education stations in the two competition zones of Harbin and Yabuli. These stations will host a variety of engaging and interesting anti-doping educational activities to raise awareness among athletes about anti-doping, enhance their understanding and abilities regarding anti-doping, promote the spirit of sportsmanship, and foster a culture of clean and fair competition during the event.

In terms of risk prevention for foodborne, medically sourced and drug-related doping, the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 Organizing Committee is committed to implementing the strictest requirements. A comprehensive doping risk prevention system will be established from the source to ensure the safety of athletes in terms of food, medical care and medication. Thank you.

China Central Television (CCTV):

The province of Heilongjiang has abundant ice and snow resources. How do you plan to leverage the opportunity of the Asian Winter Games to further consolidate and expand the participation of 300 million people in winter sports, while also nurturing more reserve athletes for the country? Thank you.

Han Shengjian:

Thank you for your question. Heilongjiang leverages its advantage as a major province for ice and snow sports, vigorously developing both competitive and mass sporting events. For 46 consecutive years, it has organized activities to get millions of young people involved in ice and snow sports, continually consolidating and expanding the achievements of involving 300 million people in winter sports. At the 14th National Winter Games, Heilongjiang province won 66 gold, 58 silver and 52 bronze medals, maintaining its top position in both the gold medal and overall medal standings for 14 consecutive editions. The province has also nurtured a large number of young athletes for the country.

In terms of training and preparation, we are focusing on the Asian Winter Games and the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics by adopting the model of "provincial teams managed by cities, and one city per specialty." We have established 11 composite training support teams to concentrate efforts on strengthening our advantageous sports. Recently, our province introduced incentive policies for outstanding athletes and coaches, fully supporting athletes in their dedicated training and preparation. We strive to achieve both excellent competition results and a spirit of sportsmanship, aiming to bring glory to the country and enhance the province's reputation.

In terms of building a reserve talent pool, the city of Qitaihe in our province has cultivated 13 Winter Olympic and world champions, earning 182 world-class gold medals and 569 national-level gold medals. We are currently summarizing and promoting the "Qitaihe Model," researching and formulating policies to deepen the integration of sports and education, and planning pilot projects for this integration across the province. We aim to establish a scientific system for talent cultivation, selection and recommendation, creating a larger "reservoir" of reserve talent. We are strengthening the construction of 48 national high-level sports talent reserve bases and adopting innovative training models, such as provincial teams managed by cities and schools. This will expand the pathways for cultivating reserve talent. Additionally, we are encouraging outstanding former athletes to enter schools as physical education teachers and coaches, thereby enhancing the faculty strength for talent development.

In terms of promoting public participation in winter sports, on the one hand, we will continue to enrich sports venues. This year, cross-country skiing tracks will be laid on the Songhua River. More than 3,000 public sports venues are expected to be built using natural rivers, small hillsides and urban parks. We will also encourage eligible venues to open to the public for free or at a low cost. On the other hand, we will constantly organize various sporting events for the public. More than 300 events such as ice marathons and urban skiing will be held to create a sound environment for the public to enjoy ice and snow. Thank you.

China Education Television (CETV):

As the 100-day countdown to the Asian Winter Games begins, there is growing public interest in the volunteer services. What is the composition of volunteers for the Asian Winter Games? How is the current volunteer testing and training going? Thank you.

Zhang Haihua:

Thank you for your questions. A total of 100,000 people worldwide registered to be volunteers in next year's Games and 6,000 volunteers were chosen after several tests. Regarding personnel composition, volunteers are college students mainly from Heilongjiang and 21 other provinces and regions, including Hong Kong and Macao. There are also 400 overseas students coming from 22 different countries. A quarter of these volunteers have previously taken part in other international sports gatherings, with many senior ones having participated in the Hangzhou Asian Games, the Beijing Winter Olympic Games and the Paris Summer Olympic Games. Nearly 500 volunteers have relevant skiing skills. Specialized volunteers will serve in 35 sectors such as medical and health care, information services and media services.

With a focus on practical application, we have developed 50 courses, such as competition services and etiquette guidelines for award ceremonies, as well as over 100 various training sessions covering general knowledge and specialty skills. During the recently concluded Heads of Delegation Conference, the 2024 National Men's Ice Hockey Championship and the National U18 Women's Ice Hockey Championship, all participating volunteers provided professional and thoughtful services and showcased the vigorous image of Chinese youth, earning praise from the Olympic Council of Asia, foreign delegations and all sectors of society.

In 12 future test events, we will carry out comprehensive training and testing during the entire process to improve volunteers' practical capabilities. In July, a voluntary service campaign themed "Dream of Winter, Together We Volunteer" was initiated in Harbin, providing 280 kinds of services including traffic facilitation, scenic spot introductions and convenience services in urban areas such as traffic stations, tourist attractions, and cultural venues. Over 20,000 volunteers have already been recruited in the city.

"Welcome Asian Winter Games with Passion, Warm the World with Ice and Snow." When the Games kick off, it will also be the time for the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival to welcome visitors from all over the world. At that time, every resident in Harbin will become a volunteer. Here, we sincerely invite all media friends to make an appointment with the Games and Harbin. Welcomed by our sincere, warm and thoughtful services, you will experience the speed and charm of winter sports as well as feel the temperature, warmth and gentleness of our city.

Hong Kong Commercial Daily:

The Asian Winter Games, an intercontinental winter sports gathering, will attract a number of domestic and foreign journalists. What preparations have been made for its media operation? Thank you.

Zhang Haihua:

Thank you for your question. The media plays a vital role in promoting the Olympic spirit, China's sporting spirit as well as the Asian Winter Games. We will make great efforts to provide an excellent working environment, facilities and services for all registered media outlets to facilitate their work. We will mainly focus on the following three aspects.

First, a network of media centers will be carefully planned for journalists. We will set up a main media center and a Yabuli Mountain media center, respectively, in the ice and snow competition areas and will establish several functional zones including comprehensive service spots, dedicated media workspaces, a press conference hall, special (rental) spaces as well as a catering and tea break room. We will also establish additional media centers in the opening and closing ceremony venues, five competition arenas and two athletes' villages. By doing so, we aim to create an optimal environment for journalists to conduct their work.

Second, we have set up a special comprehensive information release platform. We developed an "Online News Center" system for the 9th Asian Winter Games, established a professional and efficient news and information service team to provide competition review, competition highlights and flash quotes in both Chinese and English for registered media. This ensures that registered media can obtain objective, comprehensive and accurate official news and information as soon as possible.

In addition, we will provide high-quality and convenient service guarantees. Overseas registered journalists, with their identity registration cards and their valid IDs used in the application, can enter and leave the Chinese mainland between 12 a.m. Beijing time on Jan. 1 and midnight on March 1, 2025, without needing to submit an additional visa application each time. Eight media hotels near the sports venues have been chosen to provide media shuttle bus services between the media hotels and the main media center, as well as between the main media center and the venues, with considerate arrangements for arrivals and departures, logistics, catering, charge cards, finance and other aspects.

We will do our best to provide high-quality, professional and friendly services for friends from the media in guaranteeing access to space, information and services. We sincerely welcome media friends from across the globe to follow and participate in the Asian Winter Games, help present the unique charm of winter sports, jointly carry forward the Olympic spirit and China's sporting spirit, and present the Asian Winter Games to the world in comprehensive, multi-dimensional and vivid ways.

Finally, I would like to once again wholeheartedly invite friends from the media to visit Harbin to enjoy its beautiful scenery, experience the charm of the "Ice City," and jointly tell Harbin's story.

Thank you.

The Beijing News:

In recent years, frugality has been advocated in hosting sporting competitions. How can Harbin guarantee the smooth progress of all events while ensuring frugality to the maximum extent? Thank you.

Wang Hesheng:

Thank you for your question. The 9th Asian Winter Games will continue to center on the sporting events. Considering the long-term use after the Games, the high-quality facilities and resources, while meeting the needs of the event, will be used afterwards by the public and tourists.

In terms of venue construction, there will be no large-scale demolition. Instead, existing venues and facilities will be renovated and upgraded in aspects such as cold air and heat supply, dehumidification, lighting and internet access to meet the needs of the events. Regarding the snow events, we have made necessary upgrades based on existing skiing courses, and only revamped and expanded two special-purpose venues, namely the freeski big air and ski slopestyle venues. By the end of September, all the sports venues and reception hotels have been renovated and passed the final inspection. Existing equipment and facilities in the venues can be fully utilized, and the current ice resurfacers, snowmobiles, protective nets, medical rescue facilities and other equipment in the Yabuli snow competition zone will all be put into use. The venue for the opening and closing ceremonies can not only be used for economic and trade exhibitions, but also function as a space for events such as national fitness, sporting events and commercial performances. After the 9th Asian Winter Games, all the venues will open to the public with higher standards, better environment and improved functions, playing a greater role in professional training, sporting events and mass sports development, consolidating and expanding the achievement of having 300 million people participating in winter sports and meeting the needs of urban development and citizens.

In terms of the development of informatization, we will mainly focus on the needs of the Games, and prioritize technical fields that meet the demands of diversified application scenarios, to guarantee services for fast data transmission, high-definition live broadcasting, immersive spectator experience and security.

In terms of the torch relay, we have optimized the route, streamlined the scale, shortened the duration and reduced the number of torchbearers, which will not only lessen the impact on citizens, but also fully demonstrate Harbin's natural scenery, cultural characteristics and the city's charms. This time, both banks of the Songhua River will be important relay routes, which will not only showcase the magnificent natural beauty there, but also minimize the impact on public travel.

Regarding the opening and closing ceremonies, we will control the performance duration and cast sizes, promoting the Olympic spirit through creativity and innovation. We will prepare the ceremonies with care rather than extravagance, making them streamlined but not simplistic, economical yet spectacular. Thank you.

Tide News under Zhejiang Daily Press Group:

As you just said, during the ninth Asian Winter Games, a huge number of visitors will come to Harbin from home and abroad. Besides watching competitions, they may want to explore the city and its surroundings. Could you preview Harbin's attractions for them, including the warmly received visitor services and security measures that netizens have praised? Thank you.

Han Shengjian:

Thank you for your question. Heilongjiang province is rich in unique cultural and tourism resources. We are developing a distinctive cultural tourism industry, building the province into a model showing that both lucid waters and lush mountains, as well as ice and snow, are invaluable assets. From January to September this year, Heilongjiang saw a sustained boom in tourism, receiving 186 million tourist visits and generating 231.8 billion yuan in revenue, a year-on-year increase of 37% and 108%, respectively. From Nov. 8, 2024, to Feb. 28, 2025, the province will launch a new 100-day winter tourism initiative, targeting improvements in 10 areas, including dining, lodging, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, entertainment, visitor services, public facilities, supervision and security, and global promotion. We will also coordinate Asian Winter Games preparations with winter tourism services, promoting development across ice-and-snow sports, culture, equipment and tourism. Our goal is to establish the province as a world-class winter tourism destination and a leading ice-and-snow economic area.

To improve tourist services, Heilongjiang will develop eight themed routes featuring the Asian Winter Games, China's northernmost and easternmost points, border culture, revolutionary heritage, northeast New Year folklore, winter wellness, outdoor sports and educational travel. For visitors who may like both to watch games and visit tourist attractions around the venues, we will upgrade the Harbin-Yabuli-Xuexiang-Mudanjiang winter tourism circuit, connecting popular attractions, including Harbin Ice-Snow World theme park, the Chinese Baroque Historic and Cultural Block, Yabuli Ski Resort, Xuexiang village, Hengdaohezi town and Jingpo Lake.

This year, Harbin Ice-Snow World will expand to 1 million square meters from 810,000 square meters last season. The number of ice slides will increase from 16 to 24, creating a fantastic ice-and-snow theme park.

As for skiing, this year, the three separate ski fields at Yabuli Ski Resort will be united for the first time to serve ski lovers from home and abroad, so they can access 56 snow trails across all areas with a unified pass.

With the theme "A Date with Harbin, A Heartwarming Ice City," Harbin will hold signature tourism events, such as the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival, the Ice Collecting Festival and the Yabuli Ski Festival, and develop 12 themed tourism routes, such as the "Dreamlike Ice City" tour. These initiatives aim to establish the city as an international tourism hub and a world-class ice-and-snow tourism destination.

Regarding improving public service facilities for tourists, we are accelerating the development of a transport system that enables both quick arrival and leisure travel. In terms of air transport, we have added international and regional routes reaching the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia. We have also launched an inter-provincial route connecting Harbin with China's northernmost city, Mohe, and easternmost city, Fuyuan. In terms of rail transport, we have increased the frequency of trains linking tourism hubs and improved the capacity of high-quality tourist trains like "Lindu" and "Yichun." In terms of road transport, we renovated and upgraded the road between Yabuli and Xuexiang, adding service stations, viewing platforms and public parking lots. We have also expanded shuttle services between scenic spots and customized routes to ensure consistent bus availability.

Furthermore, we have established local standards for tourist homestays in Heilongjiang, identified a selection of star-rated homestays and introduced unique options themed "snowy forest" and "border charm." We've also upgraded the Tour Heilongjiang with One Click mini-program and have launched a tourist guide map to enhance travel convenience and tourists' experiences.

To create an optimal tourism environment, we will implement ten initiatives to intensify supervision of the tourism market, with stricter oversight in key areas including traffic management, travel agencies and tour guides, and tourism-related shopping. We are also promoting the Integrity and Self-discipline Conventions for Ten Tourism-related Sectors in Heilongjiang, encouraging emerging tourism sectors like travel photography, study tours and car rentals to enhance self-discipline. At the same time, we are improving multilingual signage and guiding facilities at scenic spots, airports, train stations, hotels, shopping malls and other key locations. We've introduced convenient services for foreigners, including easy payment options and ticket booking in advance to facilitate their travel.

We extend a warm invitation to tourists and media friends from both home and abroad to visit Heilongjiang this winter to enjoy the stunning ice and snow and experience the excitement of the Asian Winter Games. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Please continue to raise questions. We have time for one last question.

China News Service:

Arrival and departure services are a key indicator of an event's organizational efficiency and overall service quality. What are the main features of the arrival and departure services for the upcoming 9th Asian Winter Games? How will you enhance services for the athletes and delegates? Thank you.

Zhang Haihua:

Arrival and departure services are crucial because they shape the first impression and lasting memories of athletes and delegates at the Asian Winter Games. The organizing committee places great emphasis on this aspect, aiming to provide convenient, efficient and attentive services for all groups involved. Our efforts are focused on the following key areas:

First, we've established an arrival and departure services command center led by provincial and municipal officials, with full support from civil aviation, railways, transportation, registration and other relevant departments. A dedicated service team has been set up and an arrival and departure information management system has been developed to provide strong technical support. We've also formulated special policies and facilitation measures for arrival and departure services. For example, a direct air route between Harbin and Hong Kong was launched on June 2, and more routes are being opened to make it easier for our guests to travel to Harbin.

Arrival and departure services for the Games will be provided from January 27 to February 17, 2025. During this period, based on the arrival and departure schedules of athletes and delegates, dedicated channels will be set up at Harbin Taiping International Airport and the key railway stations (Harbin Railway Station, Harbin West Railway Station and Yabuli West Station ). Specialized teams will assist with services such as entry assistance, identity accreditation and activation, process guidance, information consultations, transportation and advance baggage check-in. Necessary services will also be available at recommended entry and exit points in Beijing and Shanghai. For groups needing transportation between Harbin's downtown area and the Yabuli competition area, high-speed railway will provide reliable service. Arrival and departure service desks will be available at airports, railway stations, the Athletes' Village, the Technical Officials' Village, media hotels and the National and Regional Olympic Committee Service Center. These desks will assist with arrival and departure inquiries as well as help with completing or updating necessary documentation.

Next, we will accelerate preparations by conducting on-site practice at airports, railway stations and other key venues. We will also formulate and distribute to all relevant parties the Harbin Asian Winter Games Arrival and Departure Guide. Emergency drills will be held to address extreme weather conditions such as blizzards, low temperatures and freezing. We are committed to ensuring smooth arrival and departure services throughout the Games, with the goal of delivering an event that is streamlined, safe and spectacular. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to all the speakers and journalists. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Liu Caiyi, Wang Ziteng, Zhou Jing, Huang Shan, Chen Xinyan, Ma Yujia, Zhang Junmian, Wang Wei, Wang Xingguang, Lin Liyao, Li Xiao, Li Huiru, Liu Jianing, Wang Qian, Zhang Tingting, Jay Birbeck, David Ball and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers: 

Ms. Li Hongyan, deputy administrator of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE)

Mr. Jia Ning, director general of the Balance of Payments Department of SAFE

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Oct. 22, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Ms. Li Hongyan, deputy administrator of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), to brief you on foreign exchangereceipts and payments data for the first three quarters of 2024 and answer your questions. Also with us today is Mr. Jia Ning, director general of the Balance of Payments Department of SAFE.

Now, I'll give the floor to Ms. Li for her introduction.

Li Hongyan:

Good morning, everyone. Despite today's poor weather, thank you all for attending this press conference. I'll begin by briefing you on China's forex receipts and payments for the first three quarters of 2024, then take your questions.

Since 2024, the global economic and financial situation has been complex and volatile, with rising geopolitical risks. China has adhered to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, intensified macro regulation, and maintained overall stability with steady progress in the national economy. Cross-border capital flows have trended toward balance, and the forex market has demonstrated strong resilience. Market expectations and transactions have remained generally rational and orderly. The yuan exchange rate has maintained basic stability at a reasonable, balanced level.

From the perspective of cross-border receipts and payments by non-banking sectors, in the first three quarters of 2024, cross-border receipts and payments by non-banking sectors amounted to $5.2594 trillion and $5.2566 trillion, respectively, resulting in a $2.8 billion surplus when valued in U.S. dollars. When valued in yuan, cross-border receipts by non-banking sectors totaled 37.39 trillion yuan, and payments 37.37 trillion yuan, yielding a surplus of 18.7 billion yuan. In terms of data on foreign exchange settlement and sales by banks, let me explain that settlement refers to the selling of foreign exchange to banks by enterprises, individuals, and other entities, while sales refer to the buying of foreign exchange from banks by these entities. In dollar terms, the first three quarters saw forex settlements of $1.6762 trillion and sales of $1.7975 trillion, resulting in a $121.3 billion deficit. In yuan terms, settlements reached 11.91 trillion yuan and sales totaled 12.78 trillion yuan, producing an 864.6 billion yuan deficit.

In the first three quarters of 2024, China's forex receipts and payments showed the following main characteristics:

First, cross-border capital flows returned to net inflows. Overall, cross-border receipts and payments by non-banking sectors showed a slight surplus in the first three quarters, with a modest surplus in the first quarter, shifting to a deficit in the second quarter, and returning to surplus in the third quarter. In terms of main components, goods trade maintained net inflows, foreign investment into China gradually improved, and outbound investment by domestic entities remained orderly.

Second, forex settlement and sales by banks moved toward basic balance. In the first three quarters, overall forex settlement and sales by banks showed a deficit, primarily due to an expanded deficit in the second quarter. However, it returned to equilibrium in the third quarter, with a surplus emerging in September, characterized by increased settlements and stable sales.

Third, the forex settlement rate has risen steadily while the sales rate has shown a moderate decline, with enterprises maintaining rational behavior in foreign exchange settlements and sales. In the first three quarters, the settlement rate for forex receipts, which measures settlement willingness, was 62.1%, while the sales rate for forex payments, which measures purchase willingness, was 68.9%. From August to September, the settlement rate reached 66.4%, up 5.7 percentage points from the first seven months, while the sales rate was 66.7%, down 2.8 percentage points from the same period. Domestic entities maintained stable exchange rate expectations, and forex transactions remained rational and orderly.

Fourth, forex transactions remained relatively active. In the first three quarters, total transaction volume in the domestic yuan forex market reached $30.27 trillion, up 10.1% year on year. Of this, spot and derivatives transactions amounted to $10.18 trillion and $20.09 trillion, respectively, with derivatives accounting for 66.4% of the market. This proportion increased by 3.7 percentage points compared to the same period of 2023.

Let me mention that in August this year, SAFE published the guidelines on exchange rate risk management for enterprises on its official website. We've brought copies of these guidelines here today for media representatives to take. The guidelines include new market practices and corporate case studies, as well as examples of accounting applications for corporate hedging. We hope you can help us promote these guidelines.

Fifth, foreign exchange reserves have remained stable. Since the beginning of the year, non-dollar currencies have experienced both depreciation and appreciation against the U.S. dollar. Given the rise in global asset prices, and as a result of non-transaction factors such as exchange rate translation and asset valuation effects, China's foreign exchange reserves have steadily increased. At the end of September, the balance of foreign exchange reserves stood at $3.3164 trillion, an increase of $78.4 billion from the end of 2023. 

Going forward, SAFE will thoroughly implement the guiding principles from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee as well as the arrangements and requirements made at the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee held on Sept. 26. We will pay more attention to system integration, prioritize key areas and put our focus toward solid reform results. We'll unwaveringly follow the path of financial development with Chinese characteristics, and make solid and effective efforts to promote reforms and prevent risks in the foreign exchange market. By doing so, we seek to step up support for the real economy and promote sustained economic recovery and growth.

The aforementioned is major statistics with China's foreign exchange receipts and payments in the first three quarters of 2024. We're now open to your questions regarding China's foreign exchange receipts and payments. 

Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Now the floor is open for questions. Please identify the news outlet you work for before asking your question.

Yicai:

Since the beginning of this year, overseas investors have continued to increase their net holdings of Chinese bonds. In addition, the recent domestic stock market rise has also attracted more foreign investment into domestic equities. What is SAFE's outlook toward future foreign capital allocation into renminbi assets? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

Thank you for your question. China has continuously and steadily opened up its financial market, and foreign investment in China has always attracted attention. I'd like to share some updates on the current situation. Recently, foreign investment in RMB assets has witnessed a positive trajectory. The comprehensive yield of RMB bonds has remained robust this year, encouraging foreign investors to increase their holdings on RMB bonds. The total holdings of onshore RMB bonds by foreign investors have surpassed $640 billion so far, marking a historic high. In terms of the existing investment structure, central banks and commercial banks from abroad, known for their stable investment style, are the primary investors and their investment portfolio is weighted towards medium and long-term bonds, such as treasury bonds and bonds issued by policy-oriented banks, which contributes to a higher level of investment stability. Moreover, driven by the rise in domestic equities, foreign investors have been increasing their net purchases of domestic stocks since late September. This indicates foreign investors' enhanced appetite for RMB-dominated assets. At present, foreign investments in domestic capital markets are still in a nascent stage, with holdings of RMB assets accounting for 3% to 4% of the domestic stock and bond markets. There is room for further increase given a multitude of favorable factors.

First, the fundamentals of China's economy are stable and improving, which provides a favorable macro-environment. Since the beginning of this year, China has been promoting its high-quality economic development in an orderly manner. As a number of incremental policies take effect one after another, China's economy will continue to consolidate this long-term positive trend. 

Second, China's improved high-level opening-up has provided a favorable policy environment. In recent years, China has steadily opened its financial market to global investors, providing a diverse range of investment channels for foreign investors. Programs such as the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect, the Bond Connect program and the China Interbank Bond Market (CIBM) have provided diversified investment channels for foreign investors. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made important arrangements with promoting high-level opening-up in the financial sector. As relevant policies continue to take effect, the domestic capital market is expected to be more attractive to foreign investors. 

Third, renminbi assets can effectively achieve risk diversification through diversified asset allocation measures, offering sound value of investment. China has established a comparatively complete and in-depth financial market system. The size of the country's bond and stock markets rank second worldwide. The renminbi maintains a stable value, boasts a variety of asset categories and demonstrates relatively independent yield performance on a global scale. This is conducive for global investors to diversify their asset allocation and achieve risk diversification. In the meantime, the share of renminbi used in global cross-border transactions continues to rise steadily and renminbi's international influence is gradually strengthening, making it a vital option for global investors seeking diversified asset allocation.

Overall, holdings of renminbi assets by foreign capital help to diversify the participants in the domestic market, enhance market liquidity and promote a more active and international development of the domestic capital market. SAFE will continue to enhance investment facilitation, foster a favorable investment environment, promote high-quality financial opening-up and proactively support foreign investors' participation in the domestic capital market. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

China's external debt witnessed an overall increase in the first half of 2024. How does SAFE view this change with external debt? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

Thank you. Mr. Jia will take this question.

Jia Ning:

Thank you for your question. The external debt of a country is an issue of great interest in both theory and practice. Based on the way debt is formed, China's external debt can be categorized into two types. The first type is external debt that is acquired by enterprises and banks through financing activities overseas. This is an objective consequence of fully utilizing domestic and international markets and resources, and is directly related to the development of cross-border trade and investment. The second type refers to the external debt accumulated through foreign capital's purchase of domestic bonds, which reflects global investors' demand for allocating renminbi assets. In recent years, as the renminbi becomes increasingly attractive to foreign investors, the second type of external debt has become the primary channel for the growth of the country's external debt.

In the first half of the year, China's external debt increased steadily. As of the end of June, the country's outstanding external debt totaled $2.54 trillion, an increase of $97.1 billion compared to the end of 2023, up 4%. For starters, China's economy has maintained steady growth and the comprehensive yield rate of renminbi bonds has also risen. Thus, foreign capitals have been steadily allocating renminbi bonds, with the net increase in holdings hitting a record high in the first half of the year and driving an increase of bond-related external debt of nearly $90 billion. This has been the primary driver for the increase in external debt. In addition, as expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut rise, domestic enterprises and banks have shown a slower pace with repaying external debts. Financing-related external debt, such as deposits, loans and trade credit, has started to rebound, increasing by over $8 billion in the first half of the year. Based on preliminary statistics, the scale of external debt in the third quarter remains stable overall.

China's external debt generally is moderate in scale and relatively low-risk in terms of repayment. First, the scale of external debt is basically compatible with the country's actual economic growth. In recent years, despite the sharp U-turn in the Fed's monetary policy and shifts in external financial conditions, China's external debt has remained generally stable, with the external debt-to-GDP ratio fluctuating mildly between 14-16%. Enterprises' cross-border financing has also effectively supported the growth of the real economy. Second, the risk of external debt repayment remains controllable. Four indicators – the liability ratio, the debt servicing ratio, the debt ratio, and the ratio of short-term external debt to foreign exchange reserves – are all within the internationally recognized thresholds. Third, the structure of China's external debt continues to improve. As of the end of June 2024, the proportion of renminbi external debt and middle- and long-term external debt were 49% and 44%, respectively, representing an increase of 13 and 3 percentage points compared with 2019. The risks associated with external debt maturity mismatch and currency mismatch both remain controllable and have significantly decreased.

Looking ahead, China's external debt is expected to maintain steady development. As the country's economy rebounds and its financial market opens up steadily, the role of renminbi in asset allocation will continue to grow and foreign capital's investment in renminbi bonds will keep rising. At the same time, as China's foreign trade and investment potential continues to be released, and the cost of external financing decreases due to the interest rate cut of the U.S., European countries and other developed economies, enterprises and other sectors' demand for external borrowing is expected to rebound gradually.

That concludes my response. Thank you.

Market News International: 

What impact will the gradual narrowing of the China-U.S. interest rate differential (IRD) have on China's cross-border capital flows and exchange rates? Is SAFE concerned that the volatility of the yuan against U.S. dollar may cause foreign exchange losses for export enterprises? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

The adjustment of monetary policies in major economies is a widely watched issue. We are continuously strengthening our tracking and monitoring efforts. In September this year, the Federal Reserve announced a 50-basis-point rate cut, signaling a shift from its two-year tightening policy and resulting in an adjustment to the China-U.S. interest rate differential. Looking ahead, uncertainties persist regarding the pace and trajectory of the Fed's rate cuts, with market expectations closely tracking changes in U.S. economic data. Historically, adjustments in the Fed's monetary policy have created spillover effects on global financial markets. While China's foreign exchange market has been affected, it has maintained overall stability, primarily due to support from domestic fundamentals. As China continues to pursue high-quality development and further economic opening-up, market resilience will strengthen, providing an even more solid foundation for foreign exchange market stability.

First, the continued recovery and improvement of China's economy helps strengthen the internal foundation for stability in the domestic foreign exchange market. Since the beginning of this year, the economy has maintained overall stability. Recently released GDP data for the first three quarters showed 4.8% year-on-year growth, positioning China at a relatively high level globally. China has strengthened countercyclical adjustments through macroeconomic policies, introducing a package of incremental measures to further drive economic recovery, boost market expectations and confidence, enhance economic vitality, and promote stable development in cross-border trade and investment. These measures provide a solid foundation for exchange market stability.

Second, the development of new institutions for a higher-standard open economy enhances the stability of the international balance of payments and the foreign exchange market. China's innovation-driven development strategy and comprehensive industry chain advantages will continue to play key roles. This will support stable foreign trade development, maintain the current account within a reasonable and balanced range, and strengthen internal-external economic equilibrium. Moreover, China's high-level institutional opening-up advances steadily, expanding cross-border investment channels, facilitating transactions, and promoting coordinated development of inbound and outbound investments. These measures will foster more balanced cross-border capital flows. Overall, maintaining balanced and stable international balance of payments helps preserve the yuan's stability at an adaptive and balanced level.

Third, the steady enhancement of China's foreign exchange market resilience helps adapt to and mitigate external environmental impacts. At the macro level, recent years have seen continuous improvement in the yuan's market-based exchange rate mechanism. The exchange rate's function as an automatic stabilizer for international balance of payments has strengthened, better releasing external pressures in a timely manner. At the micro level, businesses are utilizing forex derivatives more effectively to manage exchange rate risks and increasing cross-border yuan settlements to reduce currency mismatch risks. Since the beginning of this year, the forex hedging ratio of enterprises has reached 27%, while cross-border yuan usage in trade in goods has hit 30% – both at historically high levels. These positive macro and micro developments have alleviated the impact of forex market fluctuations on businesses, promoting more rational market expectations and transactions.

Regarding your concerns about the yuan exchange rate's impact on Chinese export enterprises, both theory and practice show that a country's exports are influenced by multiple factors, including external demand, domestic manufacturing capabilities and factor costs, with exchange rates being just one factor. Looking at China's situation, foreign trade has continued to improve this year. On the supply side, this improvement primarily stems from the enhanced competitiveness of domestic enterprises, while on the demand side, it relates to relatively stable global trade conditions. From a longer-term perspective, the main drivers of China's export growth have remained largely consistent.

From the perspective of exchange rate changes, this year the spot exchange rate of RMB against the US dollar has depreciated slightly by about 0.3 percent, and the RMB exchange rate has remained basically stable amid two-way fluctuations. Even the RMB exchange rate against the US dollar rebounding significantly in August and September was a general reaction of various non-dollar currencies to the weakening of the dollar. Moreover, the appreciation rate of the RMB is also at an average level globally, with its impact on imports and exports being relatively moderate.

SAFE has always paid close attention to changes within the situation. There are still some uncertain and unstable factors in the external environment. SAFE will monitor and evaluate international economic and financial situations as well as monetary policy trends of major developed economies. We will continue to accumulate and summarize response experiences, enrich the policy toolbox, and carry out countercyclical macro-prudential adjustments in a timely manner to effectively maintain the stable operation of the foreign exchange market. Thank you.

CCTV:

How have China's foreign exchange market and the international balance of payments performed so far this year? What characteristics do you think they have demonstrated? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

Thank you for your questions. Regarding the current foreign exchange situation, I would like to share more information with you. As I mentioned earlier, the external environment has been complex and volatile so far this year. Monetary policy expectations of major developed economies have been repeatedly adjusted. The international financial market has continued to fluctuate. China's economic growth has shown a stable growth trend. The country's foreign exchange market has generally withstood the test of changes in the external environment and has shown stronger resilience, keeping a good momentum of steady growth. This can be observed from the following three aspects:

First, the RMB exchange rate remains basically stable amid two-way fluctuations. The RMB exchange rate is mainly determined by the market. Under the market-oriented formation mechanism, it is normal for the RMB to rise and fall in two-way volatility. I just mentioned that since the beginning of this year, the spot exchange rate of RMB against the US dollar has depreciated slightly by 0.3 percent, with a certain degree of decline and rise in some periods, but this is in line with changes in the internal and external environments. At the same time, compared with other currencies, the performance of the RMB in the global foreign exchange market is relatively stable. So far this year, the US dollar index has risen by 2.3%, the exchange rates of the euro and the Japanese yen against the US dollar have depreciated by 1.7% and 5.9%, respectively, and the emerging market currency index has fallen by 6.3%. It is thus clear that RMB fluctuations are normal and moderate.

Second, foreign exchange market expectations and transactions have remained rational and orderly. Relevant indicators in the foreign exchange forward and options markets show that there have not been any obvious expectations of appreciation or depreciation for the RMB exchange rate this year, and market transactions have been generally rational and orderly. As you all have seen, the RMB exchange rate has seen spikes and falls recently, with increased flexibility. Enterprises and other entities have seized the opportune timing to settle and sell foreign exchange based on cross-border trade, investment and financing needs. The total scale of foreign exchange settlement and sales in September increased by 14% compared with that in August. At the same time, in recent years, enterprises' awareness of exchange rate risk neutrality has been continuously enhanced, and the contract size of forward exchange settlements in August and September increased month by month, indicating that enterprises actively adapt to market fluctuations through exchange rate risk management.

Third, a basic equilibrium has been maintained in the balance of international payments. It demonstrated a surplus in the current account within a reasonable size. In the first half of this year, the surplus in the current account was $93.7 billion, accounting for 1.1% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in the same period, which was within a reasonable and balanced range. With this, trade in goods maintained a certain size of surplus and continued to play a fundamental role in stabilizing cross-border capital flows, and the deficit in trade in services basically returned to pre-epidemic levels. Preliminary statistics show that the current account surplus in the third quarter remained at a reasonable level. In the capital account, cross-border capital flows have recently become more balanced. Foreign investment in China has increased and foreign investment in domestic bonds has continued to rise steadily, with a cumulative net increase of more than $80 billion in the first three quarters. Recently, foreign investment in domestic stocks has also improved significantly, and holdings in foreign debt have remained stable. Outward investment by domestic entities has been carried out in an orderly manner and both direct investments and security investments have maintained a steady growth trend. Overall, the maturity and inherent resilience of China's foreign exchange market have both continued to increase, and its ability to adapt to changes in the external environment has also increased significantly, providing strong support for the overall stability of the foreign exchange receipts and payments this year.

That is all from me. Thank you.

Bloomberg News:

I have two questions. The first is that the U.S. Department of Treasury has raised some doubts about the balance of payments and statements by SAFE, including on the calculation of the trade deficit, and they have asked SAFE to provide more information about how you're calculating the goods trade deficit as compared to the customs administration, including in recent meetings and high-level meetings. Will you provide more information on how this is calculated for the U.S. Treasury and the public? My second question is, recently, there's been a rebound in the stock market due to expectations about stimulus. Do you have any information on how this is affecting capital inflows of foreign investors? And what is your outlook for cross-border capital flows through the end of this year? Thank you.

Jia Ning: 

Thank you for your attention to the balance of payments statistics. The discrepancies between goods trade figures in the balance of payments and customs import-export data aren't unique to China – they're common worldwide. These differences primarily arise from the different international standards followed by balance of payments and customs statistics, which highlights the importance of understanding their respective statistical methodologies. While the balance of payments focuses on the economic ownership of goods between residents and non-residents – essentially documenting transactions between domestic and foreign companies, customs statistics are solely concerned with the physical movement of goods across China's borders, regardless of ownership changes. Let me illustrate this with a common example from processing trade: When a foreign company provides all raw materials and contracts a domestic company for processing and assembly, with the finished products remaining foreign-owned, these transactions aren't included in the balance of payments since no ownership transfer occurs. However, customs records the full value of these goods as imports and exports since they physically cross the border.

It's important to recognize that as a major global trading and consuming nation, China has diverse trading patterns and a complex trade structure. The separation between goods transactions and their physical cross-border movement is increasingly common in international trade, naturally leading to more noticeable differences between these two sets of data. In a globalized economy, foreign multinationals may contract production in China, and the products may be sold directly in the domestic market. Since these goods do not cross borders, the transaction is not reflected from customs statistics. However, when these goods are sold domestically, the ownership transfers from the foreign company to a domestic entity, requiring their inclusion in the balance of payments import statistics. Additionally, the valuation principles differ between the two data sets. Balance of payments statistics measure the value of goods themselves, excluding transport and insurance costs. In contrast, customs statistics record exports at free on board (FOB) prices and imports at cost, insurance and freight (CIF) prices. 

These detailed explanations can be found in our newly released “China's Balance of Payments Report for the First Half of 2024” and previous reports. To achieve more comprehensive and accurate statistics on the goods trade in the balance of payments, since 2022, SAFE has been using data directly reported by enterprises, aligning more closely with the principles of goods trading. Balance of payments statements worldwide are compiled according to the uniform standards set by the International Monetary Fund. During this year's Article IV Consultation for China, the IMF fully endorsed China's new compilation methodology, recognizing that it addresses the practical challenges faced by China and better adheres to balance of payments statistical principles. Recently, at a special session of the China-U.S. financial working group, SAFE also had thorough and effective discussions with the U.S. Treasury on statistical issues. Looking ahead, SAFE will continue to monitor developments in China's foreign trade, refine our statistical methods, and provide higher-quality balance of payments data to the public.

As for the second question you asked, Mrs. Li responded previously. In general, China's balance of payments has solid economic foundation with sound market conditions. Since this year, the current account has developed steadily with two-way trade increasing and surplus continuing to be reasonable and balanced. From the perspective of the capital account, recent foreign direct investment has improved, and foreign purchases of bonds and stocks under portfolio investments have been sound. Therefore, we are confident and have good reason to believe that in the future months and even further China's cross-border investment capital will remain to have a trend that is steady and sound. Thank you for your concern. 

Cover News:

How do you evaluate the balance of payments in the current account? What is your judgement on future trends of the current account? Thank you. 

Jia Ning:

Thank you for your concern about China's current account. The current account is an important indicator showing whether a country balances its internal and external economies well. Since this year, China's current account has kept a reasonable surplus, indicating that the balanced pattern of internal and external economies has been further consolidated. Just now, Mrs. Li introduced China's current account surplus as a share of GDP and the main components of the current account in the first half of this year. In recent years, China has given full play to relative advantages in industrial and supply chains, increased competitiveness in foreign trade and has boosted productive service industries' exports. At the same time, relying on consumption potential of a large domestic market, global trade partners fully enjoy China's development opportunities, as well as advance balanced development of China's imports and exports. Looking ahead, China's current account will continue the development trend of expanding scale and basic balance, which will help maintain the balance of payments and the sound operation of the foreign exchange market. 

First, China's imports and exports in goods is expected to grow steadily, with the surplus of trade staying relatively stable. In terms of exports, on one hand, the global economy has seen moderate recovery and foreign demand still drives exports. According to predictions by the World Trade Organization, the growth rate of global trade next year will be 3%, up 0.3 percentage point compared to this year. At the same time, the replenishment cycle in developed economies is not yet complete, and the digital consumption market is expected to remain moderate, which supports China's exports. On the other hand, endogenous dynamics of export development is still strong. China has a comprehensive industrial system, which has been deeply integrated into global supply chains and value chains over the years. China's traded goods have become more diverse, with improved structure and diverse trade partners. In terms of imports, the performance of China's domestic economy sustains a recovery trend, further unleashing consumption vitality while increasing needs for international goods. At the same time, China in recent years has carried out a series of policies and measures to further expand imports, opening the door for the world to get access to China's market and further increasing the volume of imports. In general, under the combined effect of favorable internal and external factors, the total volume of China's foreign trade of goods will continue to remain at the forefront of the world, and the trade balance will develop in a more balanced direction.

Second, the structure of service trade balance is gradually improving, and the trade balance is expected to improve. In recent years, China has been promoting both industrial transformation and upgrading, fostering the deep integration of the service industry with the manufacturing sector. High-end services such as the digital economy and intellectual property rights have both seen acceleration in their development, leading to steady growth in service trade exports. In the first three quarters of 2024, the cross-border revenue from telecommunication, computer and information services, as well as business services, totaled $123.6 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 6.8%. Revenue from intellectual property usage fees reached $9.1 billion, up 5.5% year on year. Another major component of service trade is travel, where outbound tourism and studying abroad have both seen steady recovery, nearly returning to pre-pandemic levels. Future growth rates are expected to be moderate. Moreover, since the beginning of this year, China has continued to optimize services for foreign personnel coming to China, expanding visa facilitation, which has contributed to rapid growth in revenue with cross-border travel. This trend is likely to continue and help narrow trade deficits with travel in the future. 

Thank you. 

Xing Huina:

Let's continue with the questions. I see another journalist has her hand raised.

National Business Daily:

In recent years, the two-way fluctuation flexibility of the RMB has increased. SAFE has been promoting enterprises to adopt the concept of exchange rate risk neutrality. What other suggestions do you have for enterprises to manage exchange rate risks? Thank you.

Li Hongyan: 

Thank you for your question. In recent years, the media has helped the foreign exchange management department to raise public awareness about enterprise exchange rate risk management through their effective reporting. First of all, I would like to thank you all for your support in foreign exchange management. SAFE has always prioritized, supported and facilitated the exchange rate risk management of enterprises, undertaking various initiatives. On one hand, the conditions in the forex market for serving enterprises in exchange rate risk management are continuously improving. At present, a mature international foreign exchange derivatives system, including forwards, swaps and options, has taken shape. More than 120 large, small, medium-sized, domestic and foreign banks now offer foreign exchange derivatives services, with market coverage nationwide. Also, the trading currencies of these banks encompass the main currencies used in cross-border settlements by enterprises, with fully functional trading, clearing and other infrastructure. On the other hand, we have continued to guide enterprises to establish the concept of exchange rate risk neutrality and encouraged banks to strengthen foreign exchange services for enterprises, especially micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. Through these efforts, the exchange rate risk management of enterprises has steadily improved in recent years. In the first three quarters of this year, the volume of foreign exchange derivatives used by companies to manage exchange rate risk exceeded $1.1 trillion, with over 32,000 enterprises engaging in currency hedging for the first time. All these figures are at historically high levels.

In an open economy with market-driven exchange rates, enterprises need to prioritize exchange rate risk management. The use of forex derivatives is an important approach to mitigating these risks. We have also learned in our day-to-day research that some enterprises still have concerns over the costs and effectiveness of these derivatives. I'd like to share some thoughts with you, including with enterprises. Foreign exchange derivatives follow a standard market pricing mechanism used globally. For example, the price of forward contracts fluctuates based on the spot price of foreign exchange and the interest rate differential between domestic and foreign currencies. In addition, purchasing foreign exchange options is similar to buying insurance, which requires the payment of insurance premium. It is both necessary and cost-effective for enterprises to incur some costs for hedging. The essence of hedging is to transform the uncertainty of future exchange rate fluctuations into certainty, thereby reducing their impact on business operations. Market practice also shows that enterprises should reasonably utilize various tools such as forex derivatives for hedging according to their own foreign exchange exposure, so as to correctly evaluate the effect. In particular, they cannot simply evaluate whether the hedging resulted in a loss or gain by comparing the locked-in forward exchange rate with the spot exchange rate at maturity.

Managing exchange rate risk for enterprises is a key task for SAFE. We will continue to strengthen market training, encourage financial institutions to optimize their services, join hands with various parties to lower foreign exchange hedging costs, deepen the development of the forex market, and improve foreign exchange financial infrastructure services, thus supporting enterprises in managing their forex risks.

This August, we released an updated version of the book "Guidelines on Enterprise Exchange Rate Risk Management" on our official website. The edition includes new sections on market practices and case studies from various enterprises. It also introduces applications of hedge accounting, addressing concerns many enterprises have. We hope this book can better provide targeted help for enterprises. Additionally, we appreciate continued support from the media in promoting it. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Thank you to our two speakers, and thank you to all the journalists for your participation. This concludes today's press conference.

Translated and edited by Wang Ziteng, Wang Wei, Gong Yingchun, Zhou Jing, Zhu Bochen, Huang Shan, Chen Xinyan, Yuan Fang, Ma Yujia, Zhang Junmian, Liao Jiaxin, Li Huiru, Liu Jianing, Wang Qian, Zhang Tingting, Liu Qiang, Jay Birbeck, David Ball and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speaker:

Mr. Sheng Laiyun, deputy commissioner of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Oct. 18, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This is a regular briefing on China's economic data. Today, we have invited Mr. Sheng Laiyun, deputy commissioner of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), to brief you on China's national economic performance in the first three quarters of 2024 as well as to take your questions.

I'll now give the floor to Mr. Sheng for his briefing.

Sheng Laiyun:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I am delighted to be here once again to prove an update on China's economic performance.

As usual, I will brief you on the first three quarters of 2024’s economic performance and then answer your questions.

In the first three quarters, the national economy was generally stable, with steady growth and positive factors promoting the recovery of economy were accumulated.

In the first three quarters, in face of a complicated and severe external environment and new situations, new problems of domestic economic development and under the strong leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, all regions and departments strictly implemented the decisions and plans made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adhered to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, strengthened macro regulations, deepened reform and opening-up, expanded domestic demand, optimized economic structure, effectively implemented existing policies and accelerated the introduction of incremental policies. As a result, the national economy was generally stable with steady progress, featuring steady increases with production and demand, generally stable employment and pricing, effectively promoted people’s well-being, steady growth of new quality productive forces and solid progress with high-quality development. In September, most of the indicators of production and demand improved, market expectations were boosted and positive factors promoting the economy’s recovery were accumulated.

According to preliminary estimates, the gross domestic product (GDP) in the first three quarters of 2024 reached 94,974.6 billion yuan, up by 4.8% year on year at constant price. By industry, the value added of the primary industry was 5,773.3 billion yuan, up by 3.4% year on year; that of the secondary industry was 36,136.2 billion yuan, up by 5.4%; and that of the tertiary industry was 53,065.1 billion yuan, up by 4.7%. By quarter, the GDP grew by 5.3% year on year in the first quarter, 4.7% in the second quarter and 4.6% in the third quarter. The GDP for the third quarter increased by 0.9% quarter on quarter.

First, agricultural production witnessed good momentum and animal husbandry was generally stable. 

In the first three quarters, the value added of agriculture (crop farming) went up by 3.7% year on year. The total output of summer grain and early rice was 177.95 million tons, 3.46 million tons more than that of last year, an increase of 2.0%. The autumn harvest went smoothly and another bumper harvest is to be expected for the year. In the first three quarters, the output of pork, beef, mutton and poultry was 70.44 million tons, up by 1.0% year on year. Of this total, the output of beef and poultry grew by 4.6% and 6.4%, respectively, while that of pork and mutton dropped by 1.4% and 2.2%, respectively. The output of milk dropped by 0.1% and that of eggs went up by 3.5%. At the end of the third quarter, the number of pigs registered in stock was 426.94 million, down by 3.5% year on year. In the first three quarters, 520.30 million pigs were slaughtered, down by 3.2%.

Second, industrial production registered stable growth and equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing grew fast. 

In the first three quarters, the total value added of industrial enterprises above the designated size grew by 5.8% year on year. In terms of sectors, the value added of mining increased by 2.9% year on year, that of manufacturing increased by 6.0%, and that of electricity, thermal power, gas and water’s production and supply increased by 6.3%. The value added of equipment manufacturing grew by 7.5% year on year while that of high-tech manufacturing was up by 9.1%, making their growth rates faster than that of all industries above designated size by 1.7 and 3.3 percentage points, respectively. An analysis by types of ownership showed that the value added of state holding enterprises was up by 4.3% year on year; that of share-holding enterprises was up by 6.1%; that of enterprises funded by foreign investors or investors from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan was up by 3.9%; and that of private enterprises was up by 5.5%. In terms of products, the production of new energy vehicles, integrated circuits and 3D printing devices went up by 33.8%, 26.0% and 25.4% year on year. In September, the total value added of industrial enterprises above the designated size went up by 5.4% year on year, 0.9 percentage point faster than that of the previous month, or up by 0.59% month on month. In September, the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index stood at 49.8%, 0.7 percentage point higher than that of the previous month. The Production and Operation Expectation Index was 52.0%. In the first eight months, the total profits made by industrial enterprises above the designated size were 4,652.7 billion yuan, up by 0.5% year on year.

Third, the service sector continued to recover and modern services enjoyed sound development.

In the first three quarters, the value added of services went up by 4.7% year on year. Specifically, the value added of information transmission, software and information technology services, leasing and business services, transport, storage and postal services, accommodation and catering, and wholesale and retail grew by 11.3%, 10.1%, 6.8%, 6.3% and 5.4%, respectively. In September, the Index of Services Production increased by 5.1% year on year, 0.5 percentage point faster than that of the previous month. Among them, the Index of Services Production of information transmission, software and information technology services, leasing and business services, and financial intermediation went up by 11.4%, 9.7% and 6.5%, respectively. In the first eight months, the business revenue of service enterprises above the designated size grew by 7.7% year on year. In September, the Business Activity Index for Services stood at 49.9%. The Business Activity Expectation Index for Services was 54.6%. Among which, the Business Activity Index for industries like postal services, telecommunication, broadcast, television and satellite transmission services, internet software and information technology services as well as monetary and financial services were within the high expansion range of 55.0% and above.

Fourth, market sales kept growing and sales of upgraded goods witnessed good momentum.

In the first three quarters, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 35,356.4 billion yuan, up by 3.3% year on year. Analyzed by different areas, the retail sales of consumer goods in urban areas reached 30,586.9 billion yuan, up by 3.2% year on year, and that in rural areas stood at 4,769.5 billion yuan, up by 4.4%. Grouped by consumption patterns, the retail sales of goods were 31,414.9 billion yuan, up by 3.0%, while the income of catering was 3,941.5 billion yuan, up by 6.2%. Certain basic living goods and upgraded goods enjoyed favorable sales. Retail sales for grain, oil and food as well as of beverages by enterprises above the designated size went up by 9.9% and 4.5%, respectively, and that of communication equipment and of sports and recreational articles grew by 11.9% and 9.7%, respectively. Online retail sales reached 10,893.0 billion yuan, up by 8.6% year on year. Specifically, the online retail sales of physical goods were 9,072.1 billion yuan, up by 7.9%, accounting for 25.7% of the total retail sales of consumer goods. In September, the total retail sales of consumer goods went up by 3.2% year on year, 1.1 percentage points faster than that of the previous month, or up by 0.39% month on month. The sales of automobiles and household appliances witnessed good momentum. In September, the retail sales of household appliances and audio-visual equipment, communication equipment, and cultural and office supplies by enterprises above the designated size increased by 20.5%, 12.3% and 10.0%, respectively. The retail sales of automobiles and furniture both increased by 0.4%, with the growth rate shifting from negative to positive. In the first three quarters, the retail sales of services went up by 6.7% year on year.

Fifth, investment in fixed assets continued to expand and investment in high-tech industries grew fast.

In the first three quarters, investments in fixed assets (excluding rural households) reached 37,897.8 billion yuan, up by 3.4% year on year. Investments in fixed assets was up by 7.7%, with investments in real estate development deducted. Specifically, the investment in infrastructure grew by 4.1%; that in manufacturing grew by 9.2%; and that in real estate development dropped by 10.1%. The floor space of newly-built commercial buildings sold was 702.84 million square meters, down by 17.1% year on year, a decline narrowed by 1.9 percentage points and 0.9 percentage point, respectively, compared with that in the first half of the year and in the first eight months. The total sales of newly-built commercial buildings was 6,888.0 billion yuan, down by 22.7%, a decline narrowed by 2.3 percentage points and 0.9 percentage point, respectively, compared with that in the first half of the year and in the first eight months. In terms of industry, investment in the primary industry went up by 2.3% year on year, that in the secondary industry increased by 12.3% and that in the tertiary industry decreased by 0.7%. Private investment declined by 0.2%, or up by 6.4% with the investment in real estate development deducted. The investment in high-tech industries grew by 10.0% year on year, of which the investment in high-tech manufacturing and high-tech services grew by 9.4% and 11.4%, respectively. In terms of high-tech manufacturing, investment in the manufacturing of aerospace vehicles and equipment as well as in the manufacturing of electronic and communication equipment grew by 34.1% and 10.3%, respectively. In terms of high-tech services, the investment in professional technical services, e-commerce services and services for transformation of scientific and technological achievements grew by 31.8%, 14.8% and 14.8%, respectively. In September, the investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) increased by 0.65% month on month.

Sixth, imports and exports of goods grew fast and trade structures continued to optimize.

In the first three quarters, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 32,325.2 billion yuan, an increase of 5.3% year on year. The total value of exports was 18,614.7 billion yuan, up by 6.2%. The total value of imports was 13,710.4 billion yuan, up by 4.1%. The trade balance was 4,904.3 billion yuan in surplus. Private enterprises’ imports and exports grew by 9.4%, accounting for 55.0% of the total value of imports and exports, 2.1 percentage points higher than that of the same period last year. The imports and exports with Belt and Road partner countries grew by 6.3%, accounting for 47.1% of the total value of imports and exports. The exports of mechanical and electrical products grew by 8.0%, accounting for 59.3% of the total value of exports. In September, the total value of imports and exports was 3,748.0 billion yuan, up by 0.7% year on year. Specifically, the total value of exports was 2,165.3 billion yuan, up by 1.6%. The total value of imports was 1,582.7 billion yuan, down by 0.5%.

Seventh, consumer prices grew mildly and producer prices for industrial products declined.

In the first three quarters, the consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.3% year on year, 0.2 percentage point higher than that of the first half of the year. Grouped by commodity categories, pricing for food, tobacco and alcohol went down by 0.4%; clothing up by 1.5%; housing up by 0.1%; articles and services for daily use up by 0.7%; transportation and communication down by 1.3%; education, culture and recreation up by 1.7%; medical services and health care up by 1.4%; and other articles and services up by 3.4%. In terms of pricing of food, tobacco and alcohol, the price for fresh fruits went down by 4.7%, grain up by 0.2%, fresh vegetables up by 3.3% and pork up by 5.8%. The core CPI, excluding the prices of food and energy, grew by 0.5% year on year. In September, the CPI went up by 0.4% year on year, or maintained the same level month on month.

In the first three quarters, producer prices for industrial products went down by 2.0% year on year, with the decline narrowed by 0.1 percentage point compared with that of the first half of the year. Specifically, prices in September dropped by 2.8% year on year, or down by 0.6% month on month. In the first three quarters, purchasing prices for industrial producers went down by 2.1% year on year. Specifically in September, prices dropped by 2.2% year on year, or down by 0.8% month on month.

Eighth, employment was generally stable and the urban surveyed unemployment rate declined slightly.

In the first three quarters, the urban surveyed unemployment rate averaged 5.1%, down by 0.2 percentage point over that of the same period last year. In September, the urban surveyed unemployment rate was 5.1%, 0.2 percentage point lower than that of the previous month. The surveyed unemployment rate of the population with local household registration was 5.2% and that of the population with non-local household registration was 4.8%, of which, the rate of the population with non-local agricultural household registration stood at 4.6%. The urban surveyed unemployment rate in 31 major cities was 5.1%, 0.3 percentage point lower than that of the previous month. The average weekly working hours of workers employed in the country's enterprises was 48.8 hours. By the end of the third quarter, the number of rural migrant workers totaled 190.14 million, up by 1.3% year on year.

Ninth, household incomes continued to grow and income growth of rural households outpaced that of urban households.

In the first three quarters, the nationwide per capita disposable income of households was 30,941 yuan, a nominal growth of 5.2% year on year, with real growth being 4.9% after deducting price factors. In terms of permanent residence, the per capita disposable income of urban households was 41,183 yuan, a nominal growth of 4.5% year on year and a real growth of 4.2%. The per capita disposable income of rural households was 16,740 yuan, a nominal growth of 6.6% year on year and a real growth of 6.3%. In terms of income sources, the nationwide per capita salary income, net business income, net property income and net income from transfers grew in nominal terms by 5.7%, 6.4%, 1.2% and 4.9%, respectively. The median of the nationwide per capita disposable income of households was 25,978 yuan with a nominal growth of 5.9% year on year.

Generally speaking, the national economy was largely stable with steady progress in the first three quarters, and the effects of policies continued to manifest with major indicators recently showing positive changes. However, we should be aware that the external environment is increasingly complicated and severe, and the foundation for sound economic recovery and growth still needs to be strengthened. Next, we must follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, strictly implement the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adhere to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts, and accelerate the efforts to create a new pattern of development. We must intensify the synergy of existing and incremental policies, advance the implementation and delivery of policies as well as consolidate and enhance the momentum for economic recovery and growth, so as to achieve the annual targets of economic and social development.

That's all I have to say about the main indicators of the national economy in the first three quarters of 2024. Next, I am happy to answer your questions.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Sheng. Now, the floor is open for questions. Please state the news organization you represent before asking your questions. You may now raise your hand.

CCTV: 

Overall, China's economy has performed stably since the beginning of this year, but there have also been some new problems and situations. How do you assess the economic performance within the first three quarters as well as the performance in the third quarter? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun: 

Thank you for your question. Since the beginning of this year, the domestic and international landscapes have been complex and volatile, with intertwined external changes and disruptions and increasing risks and challenges. Domestically, the economy is at a critical stage of structural adjustment and transformation where cyclical and structural contradictions are intertwined, thus the pains of adjustment are being unleashed. Faced with these new situations and problems in economic operations, the CPC Central Committee has exercised overall leadership, faced up to the difficulties, ensured sound decision-making and has promptly strengthened macro regulations. Particularly, in late September, an important meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee convened and released a package of incremental policies, greatly boosting market confidence and unleashing market vitality. Overall, in the first three quarters, national economic operations were stable and saw progress. In September, major economic indicators showed positive changes and the positive factors that drove the economy upward also accumulated. Looking at the data from the first three quarters, three notable characteristics stand out:

First, despite slight fluctuations in growth during the second and third quarters, overall economic operation has remained generally stable and has not changed. From the perspective of four major macroeconomic indicators—growth, employment, inflation and international balance of payments—the economy remained generally stable in the first three quarters. As I have just announced, the economy grew by 4.8% in the first three quarters, with a 5.3% growth in the first quarter, 4.7% in the second and 4.6% in the third. These fluctuations are minor and near the expected target. Employment and price trends were also generally stable. The surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.1% for the first three quarters, remaining at 5.1% in the first half of the year. The surveyed unemployment rate remained relatively stable, but there was a slight variation with 5.0% in the second quarter and 5.2% in the third quarter. The CPI which reflects the degree of inflation rose by an average of 0.3% over the first three quarters: flat in the first quarter, up by 0.3% in the second quarter and up by 0.5% in the third quarter. Additionally, a basic equilibrium was maintained in the balance of payments. The situation in relation to foreign trade this year has been better than expected with exports growing by 6.2% in the first three quarters, and our foreign exchange reserves returning to $3.3 trillion. Thus, based on the four major macroeconomic indicators—growth, employment, inflation and international balance of payments—economic operations in the first three quarters were generally stable, and the overall stable tone of economic operations has not changed.

Second, the trend of solid progress made in pursuing high-quality development has not changed. We are now in a critical stage of transformation and upgrading, with the main task being promoting the transition of development model and advancing high-quality economic development. In the first three quarters, all regions fully and faithfully applied on all fronts the new development philosophy, firmly advancing high-quality economic development and making new progress in achieving innovative, coordinated, green and open development for all. In terms of development driven by innovation, investments in high-tech industries continued to grow rapidly in the first three quarters with the value-added of large high-tech manufacturing enterprises growing by 9.1% year on year, 3.3 percentage points higher than the average of large industrial enterprises. In terms of coordinated development, whether it's industrial structure, demand structure or regional structure, we are moving towards more coordinated development. From the perspective of industrial structure, the proportion of value-added of the manufacturing industry in that of large enterprises continued to increase. From the perspective of demand structure, the proportion of investment in high-tech industries continued to increase. In terms of green development, green industries like new energy vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products – the "new trio" – continued to maintain double-digit, high growth. The production and consumption of wind power, nuclear power and photovoltaic power generation also maintained relatively rapid growth. In terms of open development, all regions resolutely advanced high-standard opening up, and, despite the complex and volatile international environment, exports grew by 6.2%. Exports to BRI partner countries grew even faster than the average rate. In terms of development for all, residents' income growth in the first three quarters slightly outpaced GDP growth, people’s wellbeing was ensured, and strong progress was made in food security and energy supply. This year, grain production achieved another bumper harvest. Thus, across these dimensions, China's economy continues to maintain the trend of stable high-quality development, improving structure and rising quality while also ensuring reasonable output growth.

Third, a key point I would like to highlight is that September saw positive changes in the national economy with marginal improvements in most indicators, which signals a trend of bottoming out and stabilizing. Under the influence of a series of policies, especially after the important meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee in late September, a package of incremental policies has been rapidly introduced, greatly boosting market confidence, improving expectations and revitalizing market dynamics. The main indicators for September show positive changes in economic performance. From the perspective of production, both industrial production and services showed marginal improvements. The value-added of large industrial enterprises grew by 5.4% year on year in September, up by 0.9 percentage point compared with August, marking the first rebound after four months of decline in industrial growth. The service production index increased by 5.1%, up by 0.5 percentage point compared with August. From the perspective of demand, total retail sales of consumer goods grew by 3.2% in September, up by 1.1 percentage points compared with August. Fixed asset investment grew by 3.4% year on year from January to September, remaining flat compared to the January-August period. This stability is notable because it followed several months of declining growth rates with the fixed asset investment. Additionally, market expectations have marginally improved. The manufacturing PMI in September was 49.8%, up by 0.7 percentage point compared with August, with the production index rising by 1.4 percentage points to 51.2%. We also conducted a business survey of 100,000 large enterprises, showing that the proportion of large industrial enterprises that expect optimistic fourth-quarter operations increased by 1.3 percentage points from the prior quarter and by 0.9 percentage point year on year. These changes indicate that market expectations are indeed improving positively. Additionally, another positive change in September was the increased vitality of the stock and real estate markets. In August, trading volumes on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges fell by 15.3%, but in September trading volumes surged by 32.7%. Real estate market transactions have also become more active, and, although there are fluctuations in sales area and sales value, the accumulated declines are narrowing. During the National Day holiday, as you can see from reports on the Internet, home viewings and real estate transactions both rebounded markedly, reflecting an increase in market activity.

From the perspectives outlined above, we calculate that September saw positive changes in macroeconomic performance, indicating signs of stabilization. However, we also recognize that these changes are still preliminary and that the foundation for a robust economic recovery is not yet solid. In the next phase, we must diligently implement the CPC Central Committee's strategic decisions, accelerate the execution of a comprehensive set of incremental policies and reinforce existing measures to create a synergistic policy environment. This will help consolidate the emerging trend of economic stabilization and recovery, while continuously driving upward economic momentum, optimizing structural adjustments and fostering positive development. Thank you!

Hongxing News:

Since the beginning of this year, a series of macroeconomic measures have been introduced, including policies to encourage large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins (the "two new" policies), adjustments and optimizations for the real estate sector as well as the issuance and effective use of ultra-long-term special treasury bonds and special-purpose bonds for local governments. Can you share how effective these measures have been so far? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun: 

Thank you for your question. In response to the new challenges and situations arising in the economy this year, the CPC Central Committee has made sound decisions and has timely implemented a range of policies to support stable economic operations. As you mentioned, this includes the large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins, adjustments to real estate policies and the effective use of ultra-long-term special treasury bonds and special-purpose bonds for local governments. Notably, as I mentioned earlier, in late September the country announced a package of incremental policies. These measures have significantly boosted market confidence, with some already taking effect and others being rolled out at an accelerated pace. We will see their impact unfold over time.

Judging by the policies rolled out in the first three quarters, the policy outcomes have been quite remarkable. I'll present some data to support this, which I've summarized as "five things that work."

Firstly, these policies have effectively unleashed domestic demand potential. From a consumption perspective, the appliance and audio-visual equipment retail sales at designated large enterprises grew by 4.4% year over year in the first three quarters. This was bolstered by the trade-in policy. The impact was even more pronounced in September for items covered by the trade-in policy, including cars, home appliances, office supplies and home furnishing. In July, relevant departments issued Several Measures to Enhance Support for Large-Scale Equipment Renewal and Consumer Goods Trade-Ins, allocating approximately 300 billion yuan in ultra-long-term special treasury bonds to implement the "two new" policies. Regions also accelerated the issuance of detailed rules, so these policies positively influenced consumption in September. Retail sales of automobiles increased by 0.4% in September, realizing positive turnaround after several months of decline including a 7.3% drop in August. Retail sales of household appliances and audio-visual equipment grew by 20.5% in September, a significant acceleration of 17.1 percentage points compared to August. Retail sales of cultural and office supplies grew by 10% in September, recovering from a 1.9% drop the previous month. Furniture sales also turned from negative to positive in September. From these aspects, the "two new" policies have had a positive effect on consumption and investment, demonstrating an exemplary effect. To report a figure, in the first three quarters, investment in equipment and tools grew by 16.4% year over year, 13 percentage points faster than the overall investment, driving a 2.1 percentage-point increase in total investment and contributing over 60%.

Secondly, these policies have effectively promoted the production of related industries and products. This is the effect of the "two new" policies from the production side. Let me share a few figures: In the first three quarters, the manufacturing of ships and related devices, broadcasting and television equipment, and communication equipment grew by 20.5%, 19.8% and 12.9%, respectively, with these industries experiencing rapid growth driven by large-scale equipment renewal. The production of food manufacturing machinery, specialized equipment for agricultural product processing and specialized packaging equipment increased by 38.1%, 34.6% and 11.8%, respectively. In the first three quarters, the production of new energy vehicles grew by 33.8% while related charging pile production increased by 57.2%. Household refrigerators, air conditioners and smart TVs also achieved rapid growth.

Thirdly, these policies have effectively supported economic stabilization and recovery. This is a natural outcome, as positive changes on both the production and demand sides have led to improvements in key metrics across industry, services, investment and retail. In September, several production and demand indicators showed marginal improvements, indicating that the economy is stabilizing and recovering.

Fourthly, these policies have effectively improved market expectations. Continuous reinforcement of macroeconomic policies has effectively boosted market confidence, with businesses feeling optimistic about their performance in the fourth quarter. In September, the manufacturing PMI rose by 0.7 percentage point from the previous month and the production index rose by 1.4 percentage points, with business conditions for monitored enterprises across traditional and emerging industries both seeing significant improvements.

Fifthly, these policies have effectively revitalized market activity. From the perspective of financial markets, both the stock market and the real estate market have rebounded, with the stock market showing a clear recovery and real estate transactions becoming more active.

Considering these five aspects, we believe that the series of policies issued by the central government to stabilize growth, the real estate market and market expectations are having a positive effect. Some policies are still being implemented. We hope that local governments will urgently issue corresponding detailed rules to enhance the implementation of these central policies, allowing them to unleash greater potential and consolidate the trend of economic stabilization and recovery. Thank you!

South China Morning Post: 

I have a question about the real estate industry. Could you elaborate on the current situation in the real estate sector? According to the latest data, has there been any improvement in the real estate industry since the government announced new policies to prop up the property market on May 17? What are your views on future trends, especially considering the recent introduction of many new policies? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun: 

Thank you for your questions. The real estate market has been adjusting continuously over the past two years. As a result, the central and local governments have launched a series of policies in the last two years to stabilize the real estate market and promote its healthy development, including the new real estate policy issued on May 17, as you mentioned, and a series of stabilization and recovery policies introduced by relevant departments since September, following a central Politburo meeting. Just yesterday, I noted that several departments have held press conferences here, comprehensively detailing the meaning, measures and effects of these real estate policies. I share the general sentiment that these policy measures are effectively stabilizing the real estate market as well as boosting confidence.

From our statistical data, in the first three quarters, these real estate policies played a positive role in stabilizing the market and halting the sector's decline. I just reported in several data points that while real estate development investment remained at minus 10.1% from January through September, the rate of decline narrowed compared with the January-August period, signaling a positive trend. Although the real estate sector is still undergoing adjustments in terms of both sales area and value, the decline has narrowed. The decrease in newly built commercial housing sales area narrowed by 1.9 percentage points compared to the first half of the year, slowing for four consecutive months, while sales value narrowed for five consecutive months. Additionally, central government departments supported real estate companies in enhancing liquidity. Consequently, funds received by real estate development enterprises from January to September also saw a narrowing decline, decreasing by 2.6 percentage points compared to the first half of the year, with the decline narrowing for six consecutive months. These developments indicate that real estate policy measures are gradually taking effect and steering the property market toward stabilization.

With the rollout and implementation of the comprehensive real estate policy package, we maintain an optimistic outlook for the property market going forward. As discussed at yesterday's press conference, this package of measures, which aims at stabilizing the market and halting the decline, is quite substantial, involving multiple departments and levels. Once fully implemented, these measures will certainly have a positive impact. Based on recent changes in real estate professionals' expectations and actual transactions during the National Day holiday week, we have reason to be optimistic about future market trends. I'd like to share two data points from our recent monthly survey of real estate developers and agencies in 70 large and medium-sized cities. Among real estate professionals, the proportion expressing optimism about new home sales in September increased by 10 percentage points compared with the previous month. For second-hand home sales, those expressing optimism rose by 6.5 percentage points. This improvement in confidence is quite significant.

Additionally, everyone has noticed changes in the real estate market during the National Day holiday week, with many properties seeing significant improvements in both visitor traffic and transaction volume. According to preliminary statistics from some market institutions, the transaction area for new homes increased by 102% during the holiday week, while the second-hand home transaction area rose by 205%. These changes are quite remarkable. Therefore, we have reason to believe that the real estate market will show positive developments. Thank you.

China Business Network:

We have seen new macroeconomic policies introduced recently. How will the economy perform in the fourth quarter? Additionally, with just over two months left until year-end, can annual GDP growth reach our target of about 5%? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun:

Thank you for your question. I understand everyone is concerned about economic trends in the fourth quarter. Based on economic performance in the first three quarters and the implementation effects of incremental policies, we believe favorable conditions for economic stabilization and recovery are increasing. Our confidence in achieving the target of about 5% growth is strengthening.

First, the GDP growth of 4.8% in the first three quarters has established a solid foundation for achieving the annual target. This growth rate didn’t come easily. The macroeconomic environment has been complex and volatile this year, particularly with mounting external pressures and ongoing internal structural adjustments, which continue to cause ongoing transitional challenges. However, the Chinese economy has withstood these pressures, maintaining stability. This demonstrates the strong resilience and potential of China's economy, and this growth rate provides a foundation for sustained recovery ahead.

Second, economic performance showed positive changes in September, strengthening our confidence in development. Particularly after the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee meeting, a series of incremental policies were expedited and implemented, significantly boosting market participants' confidence. When confidence exists, businesses invest more readily and consumers are more willing to spend. Moreover, some expectation indicators have shown positive changes.

Third, the combined force of these policies will strengthen economic recovery momentum. These policies will positively impact investment, consumption and industrial development. There remains significant room for new policies, and existing ones carry substantial value. Local regions are urgently implementing these policies to achieve tangible results, which will greatly boost economic development momentum. The central government's recent policy package includes measures for stable economic growth and policies promoting structural optimization and new quality productive forces. Additionally, reform plans introduced after the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee are being implemented. Thus, aggregate policies, industrial policies and structural reform measures will work together synergistically.

Fourth, leading indicators point to trends of economic stabilization and positive changes. Early October electricity consumption, changes in production material prices, and consumer activity during the National Day holiday all suggest economic stabilization in the fourth quarter is highly probable. Prices, especially those of production materials, are crucial leading economic performance indicators. Comparing early October with late September, 33 out of 50 monitored production materials saw price increases, three remained stable, and only 14 declined. In contrast, between mid-September and early September, only 18 increased, two stayed the same, and 30 decreased. The recovery of prices is beneficial for improving business operating conditions. For example, steel and chemical product prices have shown positive signs of stabilization and recovery. National Day holiday data highlights China's consumer potential, with increased traveler numbers. According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, during the seven-day National Day holiday, domestic travel increased 5.9% year-on-year, travel spending grew 6.3%, and the number of travelers rose 7.9% compared with the same period in 2019.

Based on these factors, we assess that the economy will continue September's stabilization and recovery trend through the fourth quarter. We're confident in achieving our full-year goals. Thank you.

National Business Daily：

We have noticed that the year-on-year increase of the CPI fell back in September compared to August. What are the factors behind this? How does the NBS view the current price level, and what are the predictions for future trends? Thank you. 

Sheng Laiyun:

Thanks for your questions. In September, the CPI increased by 0.4% year on year, and maintained the same level month on month. The year-on-year increase dropped by 0.2 percentage point compared with the previous month. The reasons are as follows: First, the month-on-month increase in food prices went down. August witnessed more extreme weather like heatwaves, typhoons and torrential rains, which affected the supply of vegetables and other foods. Food prices in August rose 3.4% month on month, and its month-on-month increase in September was 2.6 percentage points lower than that in the previous month. Second, service prices including flight tickets and tourism costs decreased after the summer holiday, reducing the impact of service prices on the CPI. Third, oil prices dropped. Affected by the fall in international crude oil prices, domestic refined oil prices were also going down. Due to these factors, the increase of the CPI in September slowed down compared to the CPI in August.

Actually, observing CPI trends in our country as well as trends with industrial commodity prices, our country's price formation is still relatively complex, which fully reflects China's vast territory, diverse industrial levels and relatively large differences in structural changes. Generally speaking, prices in the first three quarters showed three characteristics: varying within a small range, rising moderately and diverging significantly.

First, price fluctuations were maintained within a small range. Both the CPI and the PPI showed small fluctuations. Since April, the year-on-year monthly increase of the CPI had been maintained between 0.3% and 0.6%. In the first three quarters, the CPI went up 0.3% year on year, while the PPI continued its downward trend, which showed that the oversupply in the domestic market was still prominent.

Second, prices rose moderately. As the economy recovers and policies to stabilize the economy continues to be implemented, aggregate social demand keeps rising, which is conducive to the moderate growth of the overall prices. The CPI maintained the same level in the first quarter, went up 0.3% in the second quarter and increased 0.5% in the third quarter, registering a quarter-on-quarter increase. The PPI dropped 2.7% in the first quarter, went down 1.6% in the second quarter and decreased 1.8% in the third quarter, showing slower declines overall. This fully indicated that the economy has been recovering. Prices would not rise moderately without a sustained economic recovery.

Third, prices saw different trends. The year-on-year quarterly increase of the CPI continued to climb, while the PPI, although its decrease slowed, still declined. It shows that the price trends were relatively complex. Fluctuations with prices were due to distinct temporal and structural factors. The PPI declines was attributed not only to insufficient demand, but also to structural reasons including imported pressure. As international prices of crude oil and minerals slumped, importing these products would bring down prices in related domestic industries. Additionally, the adjustment of the real estate sector has resulted in lower prices of relative products such as steel, cement and building materials. These demands may hardly return to the previous level, since demands might have been transferred and traditional industries have been cutting overcapacity. Such structural changes might occur at the current stage. Others were indeed due to fluctuations in the market, overall demand and periodic changes. In a word, the change and trend of the PPI demonstrates strong structural characteristics. 

The above trends indicate that the economy is recovering. In the next stage, according to our predictions, the price changes will continue to follow the trends in the first three quarters, featuring price fluctuations within a small range, moderate price growth, and slower PPI decline. As the economy continues to improve and overall demand increases, product prices are expected to rise, especially after the introduction of a package of incremental policies. The CPI is also affected by seasonal factors. Some foods will face undersupply when entering winter, but their demand will gradually increase. For example, the consumption of pork will increase during the winter, especially when approaching the New Year and the Spring Festival holidays. Such are changes caused by seasonal factors. With the carry-over effect fading, the CPI would keep growing moderately and the PPI would continue to show narrowing declines in the fourth quarter. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily:

This year's graduation season has already passed. Based on employment data, how does the NBS assess the current job market? What policies and measures will be taken to advance high-quality employment? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun:

Thanks for your questions. Employment is a common concern, directly connected to people's incomes and consumption. The CPC Central Committee attaches great importance to it. Since the beginning of this year, a number of policies have been introduced to stabilize employment, especially for college graduates. Lately, a special document has been issued to boost the high-quality development of employment, and local governments are stepping up efforts to implement it. From our statistics, two features are comparatively obvious.

Employment has been generally stable, although there is pressure on the total volume of employment. Just now, I stated some data on the surveyed unemployment rate, which was sampled survey data conducted by our department. The urban surveyed unemployment rate stood at 5.1% in the first three quarters, specifically, 5.2% in the first quarter, 5% in the second quarter, and 5.2% in the third quarter. Overall, employment remained stable. The data from the third quarter was higher than that in the second quarter due to seasonal factors, such as the graduation season in July and August. What made overall employment maintain stable in our country? There are several reasons. In addition to what I have just said about the high importance attached to employment by Party committees and governments at all levels, we have adopted a series of strong policies to support employment. We also enjoy institutional advantages and benefit from some fundamental factors. As for the latter, I think there are three fundamental factors that support the overall stability of employment in our country.

First, the economy continues to grow. In the third quarter, GDP grew by 4.6%, compared to 4.9% in the same period last year. Although the growth rate fell year on year, the actual GDP increment expanded. For example, this year's third-quarter GDP exceeded last year's by 1.2934 trillion yuan. This substantial GDP growth has driven an increase, rather than a decrease, in overall labor demand - a key economic indicator.

Second, structural transformation is underway. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, China's economic structure evolved continuously. One notable change is the service sector's growing share of GDP. Since 2015, the service sector has accounted for over 50% of GDP, reaching around 55% last year. In the third quarter of this year, the service sector comprised 54.4% of GDP, up 0.4 percentage point from the same period last year. What benefits has the growth of the service sector brought us? It enhances employment flexibility. Since the service industry is mostly labor-intensive, it has a strong capacity to generate jobs. Consequently, this structural transformation has expanded our economy's ability to create employment opportunities.

Third, the demographic structure is changing. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, China's population structure has undergone significant changes. Most notably, the working-age population (ages 16-59) has been declining. From 2013 through last year, this demographic decreased by approximately 5 to 6 million people annually on average, with a net decrease of about 10 million people last year. This trend fundamentally affects overall labor dynamics. With demand increasing and supply decreasing, the overall employment situation has maintained relative stability. This provides inherent support for our national unemployment surveys and overall employment situation. Looking ahead, I believe these demographic factors will continue to play a role. Therefore, while overall employment levels face certain pressures, the foundation for general stability remains robust.

We also confront a pronounced challenge in the form of structural mismatches within our labor market. On the one hand, youth unemployment remains relatively high, creating substantial pressure on that demographic. On the other hand, however, we also observe difficulties in recruitment in the manufacturing sector. Particularly, there is a shortage of skilled workers on the frontline of some manufacturing industries. Thus, structural mismatches represent a defining characteristic of our current labor market. In the future, we need to promote full employment and advance high-quality employment development. We must leverage our strengths to continue driving stable economic development, creating more job opportunities, while gradually addressing structural issues within our development process to ultimately achieve full employment and promote high-quality employment development.

Thank you!

CNBC:

I'm wondering, what is the impact of China's trade-in policy on retail sales? Thank you. 

Sheng Laiyun:

Thank you for your question. I've already touched on some impacts of the trade-in policy, but let me address retail specifically, as it's indeed a crucial indicator of consumer market trends. Statistics show clear evidence of the policy's effectiveness. Total retail sales of consumer goods grew by 3.2% in September, up 1.1 percentage points from August, with 3.3% growth for the first three quarters. The trade-in policy has played a significant role, especially in September. As I mentioned earlier, following the central government's July announcement of major equipment upgrades and consumer trade-in initiatives, local implementation accelerated through August and September, with the policy effects becoming more pronounced in September. I'd like to highlight several figures for September. The retail sectors benefiting most from the trade-in policy are automobiles, home appliances, office supplies, and home furnishings. Our targeted research shows automobiles and home appliances experienced the broadest benefits, with around 60% of key retailers benefiting. The home furnishing sector saw a more limited impact, with benefits reaching less than 20% of businesses. However, looking at the enterprises that have already benefited, their retail growth rates have been comparatively high. Retail sales for benefiting enterprises in sectors like home appliances grew by over 30% in September. Additionally, auto sales by businesses above a certain scale (each with an annual revenue exceeding 5 million yuan) rose 0.4%, shifting from negative to positive growth. Household appliances and audio-visual equipment achieved their first high growth rate of over 20% this year, with smart home appliances growing by over 30%. Cultural and office supplies registered 10% sales growth, and furniture sales shifted from negative to positive growth. Based on these four categories that benefited most, retail sales by businesses above a certain scale are projected to increase by 1.2 percentage points. The policy's effects are clearly evident. We expect that the swift implementation of related policies will continue to yield positive results. 

Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Due to time constraints, we only have time for two final questions.

Economic Daily:

The CPC Central Committee has called for accelerating the cultivation of new quality productive forces. Could you please provide an update on the development of new quality productive forces in the first three quarters of this year? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun:

Thank you for your question. Developing new quality productive forces represents both an inherent requirement and a central focus in promoting high-quality development. Therefore, Party committees and governments at all levels attach great importance to this task and resolutely implement the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, tailoring the development of new quality productive forces according to local conditions. Our statistical data shows clear evidence of progress, with accelerated development of new quality productive forces.

First, from the perspective of investment in innovation, the investment continues to increase. Last year, China's total research and development (R&D) expenditure exceeded 3.3 trillion yuan for the first time, ranking second in the world, and playing an important role in driving high-tech industries and fostering innovation. This year, a report by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) showed that China's innovation index ranking has risen by one position, and now stands at 11th. Additionally, from the perspective of high-tech industry investment, investment in high-tech industries increased by 10% year on year in the first three quarters. As we know, fixed asset investment in the first three quarters increased by 3.4%, meaning that investment in high-tech industries was 6.6 percentage points higher. Furthermore, the contribution rate of high-tech industry investment to the overall growth of fixed asset investment reached 27.1%. Therefore, investment in innovation is continuously increasing.

Second, from the perspective of new quality productive forces, innovative outcomes are continuously emerging. In the first eight months of this year, data from intellectual property-related departments indicate that the number of invention patents granted increased by more than 20% year on year. A more advanced quantum computer has been launched, and more space missions have been carried out, along with major national projects and significant achievements continuing to emerge.

Third, new industries are developing at an accelerating pace. The added value of high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size increased by 9.1% year on year in the first three quarters, which is 3.3 percentage points higher than the growth rate of industrial enterprises above designated size. The added value of information transmission, software and information technology service industries increased by 11.3% in the first three quarters, which also significantly exceeded the growth rate of the overall service industry. The digital economy is advancing quickly, and the added value of digital product manufacturing is growing fast.

Fourth, new business forms and models are rapidly forming and expanding. Online retail sales continue to experience a high growth rate, with the online retail sales of physical goods increasing by 7.9% year on year in the first three quarters. Instant retail and livestream e-commerce also continue to experience high growth rates.

Based on the above circumstances, new quality productive forces are being rapidly cultivated and formed. However, this process involves a transition from quantitative to qualitative changes. Our country’s economic transformation and high-quality development ultimately depend on technological support and the rapid formation of new quality productive forces. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee clearly proposed improving the institutions and mechanisms for fostering new quality productive forces in line with local conditions. A significant portion of the latest incremental policies is aimed at promoting the development of new quality productive forces. Therefore, we believe that with the implementation of these incremental policies and the reforms in place, there is considerable potential for the development of China’s new quality productive forces. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

One last question, please.

The Beijing News:

We have noticed that the growth rate of industrial added value in September rebounded for the first time after four months of continuous decline. As such, Mr. Sheng, how do you assess the current performance of the industrial sector? What is your forecast for the trend in the upcoming period? Thank you.

Sheng Laiyun:

Thank you for your question. The industrial sector has been a bright spot in the economy this year. As you may have noted from the data, GDP grew by 4.8% in the first three quarters, while industrial output increased by 5.8%, surpassing GDP growth by 1 percentage point. The industrial sector has been crucial in supporting steady economic growth, contributing nearly 40% of GDP in the first three quarters. Why has the industrial sector performed so well and become a highlight of the economy?

First, the foundation of China’s industrial sector is solid. China is the only country that covers all of the more than 500 industrial sectors recognized by the United Nations. Our industrial system is highly resilient, with strong supporting capabilities and significant flexibility. Despite external shocks and internal pressures from structural adjustments, the industrial sector has continued to demonstrate strong competitiveness.

Second, the solid performance of the industrial sector is also attributable to the support from exports. In the first three quarters of this year, the export delivery value of the industrial sector increased by 4.1%, while total goods exports rose by 6.2%. These export products have not only showcased China’s processing capabilities but also underscored the vital role that exports play in supporting industrial development.

Third, the growth of new drivers and the development of new quality productive forces, as I mentioned earlier, have also provided crucial support. In recent years, particularly since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have intensified efforts to promote industrial restructuring and transformation, accelerating the development of new quality productive forces within the industrial sector. Our data indicates that the trend toward industrial upgrading, encompassing high-end, intelligent and green development, has become increasingly evident. Over the past few years, the added value of high-tech industries has increased by 3 to 4 percentage points faster than that of industrial enterprises above designated size on average. Additionally, industries related to the digital economy, as well as the new energy sectors in which we have competitive advantages, have also sustained rapid growth, providing strong momentum for the stable development of the industrial sector.

Another important reason, as I mentioned earlier, is the adoption of the policy to issue ultra-long special treasury bonds to implement major national strategies and build up security capacity in key areas and the policy to promote large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-ins for consumer goods. Earlier, I provided an overview of the policy effects, noting that the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector has benefited significantly. In the first three quarters, NEV production increased by 33.8% year on year. Related manufacturing sectors, such as metal smelting equipment and CNC forging and pressing equipment, have also sustained double-digit growth in output. These policy effects continue to be realized.

These four factors have contributed to the robust performance of the industrial economy this year, playing a crucial role in ensuring the stable operation of the overall economy. Looking ahead to the next stage, the industrial sector faces certain pressures, such as ongoing declines in industrial product prices, the need to improve corporate profits, the necessity to enhance industrial capacity utilization, and the trend for some traditional industries to accelerate adjustment, transformation and upgrading, all structural issues to be addressed through reform and transformation.

However, from a broader perspective, I believe the industrial sector will continue to sustain stable growth momentum. The supporting factors I mentioned earlier remain in place, and internal drivers, such as new growth engines and economic transformation, are expected to strengthen further. Especially in the fourth quarter, as the package of policies is implemented, China’s industrial economy is anticipated to maintain stable growth, making improvements in both quality and efficiency. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to Mr. Sheng and all the reporters for your participation. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Yan Bin, Li Huiru, Mi Xingang, Wang Yanfang, Wang Yiming, Zhou Jing, Wang Xingguang, Wang Qian, Lin Liyao, Wang Wei, Chen Xinyan, Zhang Junmian, Liu Caiyi, Yuan Fang, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Wang Lingjun, vice minister of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC)

Mr. Lyu Daliang, spokesperson of the GACC and director general of the Department of Statistics and Analysis of the GACC

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Oct. 14, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This is a regular briefing on China's economic data. Today, we have invited Mr. Wang Lingjun, vice minister of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), to brief you on China's import and export data for the first three quarters of 2024 and to take your questions. Also attending today's press conference is Mr. Lyu Daliang, spokesperson for the GACC and director general of the Department of Statistics and Analysis of the GACC.

Now, let's give the floor to Mr. Wang for his briefing.

Wang Lingjun:

Friends from the media, good afternoon. Welcome to this afternoon's press conference. First, I will brief you on the import and export situation for the first three quarters. Afterwards, my colleague Lyu Daliang and I will answer any questions you may have.

Since the beginning of this year, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, China has achieved overall economic stability while also ensuring steady progress. New quality productive forces have been rapidly forming, high-quality development has been deeply advanced and imports and exports with goods have been steadily increasing, thus continuing the foreign trade structure's optimization. It can be said that both quantity and quality have improved. According to customs statistics, in the first three quarters, China's imports and exports amounted to 32.33 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 5.3%, including exports of 18.62 trillion yuan, up by 6.2%, and imports of 13.71 trillion yuan, up by 4.1%. The main characteristics are as follows:

First, the total value of imports and exports has reached a new high, with each quarter exceeding 10 trillion yuan. For the first time in history, the total for the first three quarters surpassed 32 trillion yuan, with imports and exports for each quarter amounting to 10.15 trillion, 11 trillion and 11.17 trillion yuan, respectively. Each quarter indeed exceeded 10 trillion yuan and the three quarters together surpassed 32 trillion yuan, marking a historic first for the same period.

Second, various types of business entities have remained active, with private enterprises achieving relatively rapid growth. In the first three quarters, China's private enterprises recorded imports and exports totaling 17.78 trillion yuan, an increase of 9.4% and accounting for 55% of the total foreign trade value, which was up by 2.1 percentage points. Foreign-invested enterprises saw imports and exports of 9.53 trillion yuan, growing by 1.1% and marking growth for two consecutive quarters. State-owned enterprises saw imports and exports of 4.9 trillion yuan, with a growth of 0.1%.

Third, market diversification has steadily progressed, and trade with more than 160 countries and regions around the world has achieved growth. Imports and exports with partner countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) totaled 15.21 trillion yuan, which was up by 6.3%, increasing their share to 47.1%. Trade with fellow Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) member countries reached 9.63 trillion yuan, growing by 4.5% and including 5.09 trillion yuan in imports and exports with ASEAN, up by 9.4%. During the same period, imports and exports with the European Union and the United States amounted to 4.18 trillion yuan and 3.59 trillion yuan, respectively, increasing by 0.9% and 4.2%.

Fourth, the structure for exporting products has been optimized, with the exporting of high-end equipment increasing by more than 40%. In the first three quarters, China's exports of mechanical and electrical products amounted to 11.03 trillion yuan, an increase of 8%, and accounted for 59.3% of the total export value. Among these, high-end equipment exports grew by 43.4%, with integrated circuits, automobiles and household appliances experiencing export increases of 22%, 22.5% and 15.5%, respectively. Additionally, exports of traditional labor-intensive products totaled 3.13 trillion yuan, up by 2.8%.

Fifth, the abundance and variety of imported products have improved, with a stable rise in the volume of bulk commodity imports. In the first three quarters, China's import volume of bulk commodities increased by 5%. Among these, energy products such as crude oil, natural gas and coal totaled 901 million tons, up by 4.8%; metal ores such as iron and aluminum amounted to 1.138 billion tons, increasing by 4.9%. During the same period, the import values for integrated circuits and automobile parts grew by 13.5% and 4.6%, respectively. Imports of consumer goods exceeded 1.3 trillion yuan.

Overall, in the first three quarters, China's foreign trade operated generally stable, with both exports and imports achieving growth. The current domestic and international environments are increasingly complex and China's foreign trade development faces certain challenges. These primarily include intensified global trade protectionism, weak growth momentum in major markets, heavy debt burdens and an increase in uncertain and unstable factors. However, it is also important to recognize that China's economic fundamentals, along with its broad market, strong resilience and great potential, have remained unchanged. The continued implementation of existing policies and the introduction of incremental policies are gaining momentum, while the positive factors for foreign trade development are accumulating and increasing. Thus, there is a solid foundation and support for steady growth with imports and exports in the fourth quarter.

The GACC will adhere to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, focusing on the decisions and arrangements made at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. With the aim to promote Smart Customs and thereby strengthen our country, we will further deepen comprehensive reforms in customs, continuously innovate the regulatory service system, optimize the business environment at ports and promote the facilitation of cross-border trade. In response to new situations and challenges in current foreign trade operations, we will follow the decisions and arrangements made at the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Sept. 26, adhere to a problem-oriented approach, focus on key issues, take proactive initiatives, effectively implement existing policies, intensify the introduction of incremental policies, further enhance the pertinence and effectiveness of policy measures, stabilize the volume and improve the quality of foreign trade and contribute to completing the annual goals for socioeconomic development. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Wang, for your introduction. We will now open the floor for questions.

CCTV News:

According to recently released customs statistics, China's imports and exports maintained stable growth in the first three quarters of this year. What are the main factors driving this growth? Additionally, could you analyze and interpret the expected trends in China's foreign trade for the fourth quarter? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your question. Since the beginning of this year, China's imports and exports have maintained stable growth due to both supply and demand factors.

On the demand side, internationally, the World Trade Organization's latest report has raised its forecast for annual global merchandise trade volume growth. Institutions such as the World Bank and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development believe the global economy is stabilizing, and recovering external demand has created favorable conditions for China's exports. In the first three quarters, China's exports to traditional markets — Europe, the U.S. and Japan — grew by 4.2%, while exports to emerging markets like ASEAN and Latin America increased by 12.3% and 13.7%, respectively. Domestically, China's industrial production has grown steadily since the start of this year, driving increases in imports of coal (11.9%), natural gas (13%) and iron ore (4.9%) in the first three quarters. With the cyclical upturn in consumer electronics, imports of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, integrated circuits and flat-panel display modules all achieved double-digit growth. The consumer market has maintained steady growth, with imports of specialty fruits, wine and clothing rising by 7.1%, 28.9% and 6.1%, respectively, effectively meeting diverse domestic consumer demands.

On the supply side, China is accelerating the development of new quality productive forces, with manufacturing trending notably toward higher-end, smarter and greener production. Innovation has made Chinese manufacturing increasingly attractive globally. Regarding high-end development, Chinese manufacturing has demonstrated solid capabilities. For instance, we recently exported the world's largest floating oil-gas production, storage and offloading platform, priced above 10 billion yuan, with a displacement equivalent to five aircraft carriers — representing the pinnacle of global marine engineering. In terms of smart manufacturing, products like all-in-one robotic vacuum cleaners and automatic coffee machines capable of brewing more than a dozen flavors have gained popularity with overseas customers. Home appliance exports increased by 15.5% in the first three quarters. On the environmental front, China's new energy industry has effectively aligned with global green development trends, with exports of wind turbine generator systems and electric vehicles rising by 73.9% and 22%, respectively.

Regarding future trends, with three months remaining in the year, the external environment has grown increasingly complex and challenging. The latest International Monetary Fund report indicates that global economic growth rates have fallen below the average levels seen in the first two decades of this century. Major economies are struggling to maintain sustained growth momentum, with both the Federal Reserve and European Central Bank lowering their respective economic growth forecasts by 0.1 percentage point in September. Additionally, some countries have increasingly imposed trade restrictions on Chinese products. Recent fluctuations in key domestic economic indicators — including industrial output, investment and consumption — have added pressure to foreign trade development. However, the fundamentals of China's economic development remain solid, with favorable conditions such as vast market potential and strong economic resilience continuing unchanged. Moreover, you may have noticed that various departments and regions are actively implementing decisions and arrangements made at the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau meetings. They're introducing a new package of incremental policies to support the healthy development of the real economy and business entities. With these coordinated policy efforts, China's economy is expected to maintain its stable upward trajectory toward higher-quality growth. We have both the necessary conditions and confidence to achieve our annual objectives of steady trade volume growth and quality improvement. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

How has the recent weakening in international market demand affected China's exports? Could you share details about China's export performance in September? What are the GACC's expectations for export trends in the fourth quarter? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Good afternoon. Thank you for those questions. First, let me brief you on our export performance for September.

In September, China's exports totaled 2.17 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 1.6%. The growth rate has indeed slowed down, and preliminary analysis suggests this is mainly due to some short-term, sporadic factors. First, there's a connection to the extreme weather in September. Two typhoons made landfall in the Yangtze River Delta, and historical data shows that typhoons' impact on exports tends to last for a considerable time. After a typhoon, shipping schedules often get delayed, leading to a lag in exports. Second, recent issues like global shipping disruptions, a container shortage, and expectations regarding contract negotiations for dockworkers on the U.S. East Coast have caused companies to adjust their shipping and logistics rhythms. According to data, the peak season for export of certain products, which usually came in the third quarter in previous years, was more than a month earlier this year. Additionally, the export scale in September of last year was relatively high, the second highest of the year, only second to December. This high base also constrained the year-on-year growth rate for September this year. Overall, the September slowdown in export growth is considered a typical short-term data fluctuation.

Looking at the overall trend for the first three quarters, exports in September marked the sixth consecutive month of growth. Cumulative exports reached 18.62 trillion yuan, setting a historical high for the same period, with a year-on-year increase of 6.2%. This growth rate is 0.5 percentage point higher than the average for the same period over the past decade. Preliminary estimates based on the latest data published by various economies indicate that China's overall export share in the global market is steadily rising. Key export products, from furniture and home appliances to ships and containers, have all seen varying degrees of increased global market share, showcasing China's strong resilience in exports.

Currently, China is accelerating the construction of a modern industrial system and developing new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions. The country maintains a solid advantage with a strong manufacturing base, a complete range of industries, and a large-scale industrial system, which continues to consolidate its position in the global industrial and supply chain landscape. Recent surveys of over 800 major export enterprises across the country show that 69% of them anticipate stable or growing exports in the fourth quarter. Overall, we maintain a positive outlook for exports in the fourth quarter. Thank you.

Kyodo News:

China shows a trend of excessive trade surplus again, raising concerns in some countries. What are the reasons for such excessive surpluses? Any comment on the concerns of these countries? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your questions. China never intentionally pursues a trade surplus. The recent growth in our goods trade surplus results from the improved competitiveness of Chinese industries, resilient exports, and lower import values due to declining global commodity prices. Our perspective on trade surpluses is as follows:

First, when evaluating a trade surplus, it's important to consider not only the absolute scale but also the relative proportion of the surplus to GDP. Vertically, our current ratio is below China's historical peak. Horizontally, it's also lower than that of some major global economies.

Second, evaluating a country's trade balance requires examining both the goods and services trade, as well as trade statistics and international balance of payments data. According to the latest balance of payments data from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, our current account surplus is 1.1% of GDP, remaining within a reasonable and balanced range.

Additionally, I'd like to point out that it's perplexing how some countries criticize China's trade surplus while simultaneously imposing stricter regulatory measures to limit their exports to us. Thank you!

National Business Daily:

This year, the BRICS cooperation mechanism expanded for the first time, with the number of BRICS member countries increasing to 10. Could you please introduce China's import and export situation with its BRICS partners and the main achievements of the BRICS cooperation mechanism? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your question. The BRICS cooperation mechanism is an important platform for emerging market countries and developing nations to strengthen solidarity and cooperation and safeguard common interests. On Jan. 1 this year, five new partners joined the BRICS family. Following this expansion, BRICS countries now account for over one-fifth of the global trade, significantly boosting their international influence. In the first three quarters of this year, China's imports and exports with other BRICS countries reached 4.62 trillion yuan, growing by 5.1%. Embracing the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, trade within the BRICS family continues to achieve new and positive outcomes.

In the industrial sector, China and other BRICS countries have fully leveraged their comparative advantages in intermediate goods, complementing each other in basic industries such as steel, chemicals and textiles. In the first three quarters, China's exports of steel products and textile materials to other BRICS countries increased by 8.6% and 13.4%, respectively. China's imports of metal ores and methanol from other BRICS countries rose by 14.4% and 34.3%, respectively. Simultaneously, China's robust manufacturing system and technological strengths have contributed to the development of emerging industries in other BRICS countries. During this period, China saw double-digit growths in exports of various intermediate goods to other BRICS members, such as integrated circuits, panel display modules, and aircraft components.

In agriculture, China and other BRICS countries have met each other's diverse needs with competitive products. BRICS nations supplied over 80% of China's imported poultry meat and frozen cod, as well as more than half of its imported crabs. Meanwhile, China's exports of garlic, tomatoes, citrus and other fruits and vegetables have been well received in BRICS markets, with their exports all growing by more than 20% in the first three quarters. China and other BRICS countries have also seen frequent trade in agricultural machinery and materials. In the first three quarters, China's exports of combine harvesters, insecticides and herbicides to other BRICS members all increased by over 20%, supporting local agricultural production and development. More than one-third of China's imported potassium chloride fertilizer came from other BRICS countries, playing a positive role in promoting domestic agricultural production.

Moreover, bilateral trade has served as a platform and conduit for cooperation and exchange in other sectors. China saw rapid growth in both its exports of traditional Chinese medicine to other BRICS countries and its imports of coffee and cocoa products from them in the first three quarters, helping to promote multicultural exchanges.

This year marks the first year of BRICS expansion, with the first post-expansion summit set to take place soon. Looking ahead, as the scope of greater BRICS cooperation broadens and deepens, China's economic and trade collaboration with other BRICS countries will continue to make steady and solid progress. Thank you.

ThePaper.cn:

Data shows that China's import growth has slowed in recent months. Does this reflect weak domestic demand? Can you provide details on September's import performance? What are your expectations for import trends for the full year? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your questions. As Mr. Wang just mentioned, China's imports totaled 13.71 trillion yuan in the first three quarters, a 4.1% year-on-year increase, reaching a historic high for the same period. While the monthly year-on-year growth rates fluctuated this year, import volumes rose quarter by quarter, with each quarter showing positive year-on-year growth. Additionally, China's import sources have remained diverse and stable, with imports from over 140 countries and regions across six continents experiencing growth. Specifically, imports from Europe and the U.S. increased by 1.2% and 2.7%, respectively, while imports from ASEAN, Latin America and Africa grew by 5.4%, 5.3% and 10.3%, respectively.

As for imports in September, looking solely at the numbers, the year-on-year growth rate in yuan terms slowed, influenced by factors such as import prices and exchange rate fluctuations. However, in terms of scale, the volume of imports has expanded month on month since July, with September marking the highest point this year — a 2% increase from August. In terms of quantity, September imports grew by 0.7% year on year. Notably, coal, natural gas, and integrated circuits all saw double-digit growths, increasing by 13%, 19%, and 17%, respectively. This reflects a sustained recovery in domestic demand. Moreover, when measured in U.S. dollars, imports showed a slight uptick in September.

China has steadfastly advanced high-level opening up and proactively expanded imports. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasized that "we will seize the initiative by opening China's commodity, services, capital, and labor markets wider to the outside world in an orderly manner and unilaterally opening our doors wider to the world's least developed countries." At the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in Beijing on Sept. 5, President Xi Jinping announced that China had decided to give all least developed countries (LDCs) with diplomatic ties to China zero-tariff treatment on all tariff lines, making China the first developing country and major economy in the world to implement this initiative. In the first three quarters of this year, China's imports from LDCs increased by 14%. As this decision is materialized, China's imports from these nations will continue to expand. Next month, the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) will be held in Shanghai. The growing success of the CIIE continues to demonstrate China's commitment to greater opening up while providing more countries with opportunities to benefit from China's vast market. Thank you. 

Bloomberg:

Two questions on tariffs. The first one is you've seen increased amounts of countries putting tariffs on the "new three," of solar panels, batteries and EVs — such as Türkiye's EV tariffs in June. What impacts are those measures having on those industries? And secondly, does China worry that increased steel exports will further inflame trade tensions? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your questions. You mentioned two topics: the "new trio" (electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products) and steel. Let me first address your question about the "new trio." I will start by sharing some details about the export situation of the "new trio."

In the first three quarters, China exported 757.83 billion yuan worth of electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products, accounting for 4.1% of China's total exports. The "new trio" are exported to more than 200 countries and regions, and are popular globally.

We believe that the global new energy industry is still currently in a phase of rapid development. China's exports of the "new trio" and other green, low-carbon products have not only enriched global supply and alleviated global inflationary pressures, but also made a significant contribution to addressing climate change and promoting green transformation worldwide. Indeed, some countries have imposed tariffs on China's "new trio," but we consider this to be an unfair and unreasonable form of trade protectionism that violates international trade rules, that will ultimately hinder the global green and low-carbon transformation. Some American scholars have even called the tariffs on China's green technology products a "foolish mistake." We hope that relevant countries will abandon these wrong practices, seek their own justified interests through common development, and open up new sources of growth for the global economy while jointly addressing the global challenge of climate change.

As for steel exports, I will also provide some data. In the first three quarters, China exported 441.94 billion yuan worth of steel, down by 3% year on year. I also want to clarify that most of the steel produced in China is for domestic consumption and use, including further processing, mainly to meet the demand of the domestic market.

Here, I'd like to share that although the steel industry is a traditional one, in the context of China's accelerated development of new quality productive forces, the steel industry is constantly innovating and upgrading. A few days ago, I visited a steel plant in Taiyuan where they developed stainless steel foil with a thickness of just 0.015 millimeters — about one-quarter the thickness of a sheet of A4 paper — also known as the hotly discussed "hand-torn steel" online. This type of steel is widely used in precision manufacturing industries, and the company reports good order volumes. There are many such steel enterprises in China, and I believe that such innovative steel products will have a broad market both domestically and internationally. Thank you.

China News Service:

In August, the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee reviewed the "Policies and Measures to Open Up a New Vista in the Large-scale Development of China's Western Region." Could you please share the foreign trade situation in the western region during the first three quarters of this year? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your question. Under the promotion of the coordinated regional development strategy, the western region has adhered to the principle of promoting opening-up through greater openness, and its level of opening-up continues to improve. In the first three quarters of this year, the western region's imports and exports totaled 2.92 trillion yuan, up by 8.9% year on year, showing many positive changes.

First, the growth rate of imports and exports was the highest among all regions. Since the CPC Central Committee made arrangements in 2020 to open up a new vista in the large-scale development of China's western region in the new era, the western region's foreign trade volume has increased significantly, with the annual import and export value surpassing 3 trillion yuan and moving toward 4 trillion yuan, with an average annual growth rate of 8.5%. In the first three quarters of this year, the growth rate of the western region's foreign trade was 3.6 percentage points higher than the national average, and its share of the national import and export total increased to 9%.

Second, the foreign trade industry continued to improve in terms of quality and sophistication. In the first three quarters, the western region exported 1.18 trillion yuan worth of mechanical and electrical products, up by 13.3% year on year, and higher than the national growth rate for similar products. Among them, exports of computers and their components, as well as integrated circuits, grew by 6.7% and 27.2%, respectively, accounting for 30% and 22.7% of the national export value of these products. The western region's exports of the "new trio" grew by 7.9%, and exports of specialized high-tech equipment increased by 32.6%.

Third, business entities have shown strong vitality. In the first three quarters, 36,000 foreign trade enterprises in the western region registered concrete activities in import and export, an increase of 14.6%. Among them, private enterprises performed particularly well, with imports and exports reaching 1.61 trillion yuan, a growth of 12.8% and accounting for 55.4% of the total import and export value in the western region during the same period. Meanwhile, foreign-invested enterprises in the western region saw their imports and exports grow by 9%, a growth rate that also leads other regions.

Fourth, the construction of a new trade corridor is creating a high-speed route for foreign trade. The construction of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor has promoted the development and opening-up of regions along its route. In the first three quarters, the western region achieved 513.79 billion yuan in imports and exports through the new corridor, a growth of 15%. This new corridor that crosses mountains and seas is not only a convenient and efficient logistics artery, but also is a vibrant economic and trade corridor.

In August of this year, the Political Bureau of the Party Central Committee deliberated the Policy Measures to Further Open up a New Vista in the Large-scale Development of the Western Region, which has provided direction and set clear requirements for the next steps. The customs authorities will conscientiously implement relevant work arrangements of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, fully support the construction of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, further promote the development of characteristic and advantageous industries in the western region and advance the construction of open platforms, continuously driving high-quality development and high-level opening-up of the western region. Thank you!

Cover News:

In the recent two years, private enterprises in China have seen rapid growth with their imports and exports. Could you elaborate on the characteristics and highlights of private enterprises' imports and exports in the first three quarters of this year? How will customs help private enterprises with participating in international competition in the future? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your questions. The Party Central Committee always unswervingly consolidates and develops the public sector, and unswervingly encourages, supports and guides the development of the non-public sector. The Party Central Committee always maintains that the non-public sector's status and functions in the country's economic and social development have not changed, the principle and policies to unswervingly encourage, support and guide the development of the sector have not changed, and the principle and policies to provide a sound environment and more opportunities to the sector have not changed. These commitments have created a favorable environment for the development of private enterprises and promoted the sustainable and healthy development of the private economy. In the first three quarters, China's private enterprises achieved 17.78 trillion yuan in imports and exports, a growth of 9.4%, which is 4.1 percentage points higher than the national rate, contributing 93.8% to the overall growth of foreign trade. The flexible and adaptable operating characteristics of private enterprises, along with their growing strength in foreign trade, continue to inject new vitality into the development of foreign trade. Here, I would like to share three impressions of private enterprises:

First, they are bold and determined. Private enterprises are a strong force in expanding markets and securing orders, playing an important role in promoting market diversification. In the first three quarters, private enterprises' imports and exports to ASEAN, Africa and Latin America grew by 12%, 6.4% and 13.9%, respectively, with their shares in China's trade with these regions rising to 62%, 61.1% and 54.2%, respectively.

Second, they are innovative. Since the beginning of this year, private enterprises have accelerated equipment upgrades, constantly positioning themselves for innovation. In the first three quarters, private enterprises imported 203.82 billion yuan worth of various production equipment, a growth of 31%, accounting for 51.6% of China's imports for similar products. Among these, semiconductor manufacturing equipment and high-end machine tools accounted for 67.9% and 43.7% of China's imports of such products, respectively. This momentum of innovation has also translated into export power, with private enterprises' exports of high-tech products growing by 14% in the first three quarters, making up 52.7% of China's high-tech product exports, a 4.4 percentage point increase. Exports of ships and marine engineering equipment, aerospace equipment and electronic information products grew by 94%, 37.2% and 17.5%, respectively.

Third, they have always strived to do better. In recent years, private enterprises have gradually evolved from "producers" to "brand owners." In the first three quarters, private enterprises' exports of solar cells, lithium batteries and textile machinery consisted of 83.4%, 71.7% and 57.6% of their own brands, respectively. While focusing on brand building, private enterprises have also been committed to integrity. In the first three quarters, 2,411 private enterprises obtained AEO certification, the highest form of customs certification. With this "golden business card," private enterprises are set to reach even broader stages within foreign trade development.

The Party Central Committee and the State Council have always been committed to creating a favorable environment and providing more opportunities for the development of the private economy. Last week, a draft law on the promotion of the private economy was opened for public comment. We are closely monitoring changes in the situation, visiting enterprises to deliver policies, listening to feedbacks and solving problems. We are also studying and preparing a new round of practical and effective policy measures to be introduced at an appropriate time. Through improved regulatory efficiency and service standards, we will help enterprises stabilize expectations, expand markets and boost confidence. Thank you!

China Financial and Economic News:

My question concerns the China International Import Expo (CIIE). We know that the 7th CIIE will be held in Shanghai from Nov. 5-10. Could you please explain what measures the GACC has implemented to ensure the expo's success? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your question. At this time each year, significant attention is focused on the CIIE. Three weeks ago, the first exhibit of this year's expo — an electric concept tricycle — successfully cleared customs at Shanghai port, marking customs' entry into the "final preparation phase." To date, customs offices nationwide have completed clearance procedures for 18 batches of exhibits, making the process more streamlined and efficient.

In fact, customs began its CIIE preparations as early as April this year. We have analyzed our experience from supporting previous expos and developed a more comprehensive work plan for the 7th CIIE. Building upon our existing 17 facilitation measures, we've introduced new initiatives. For animal- and plant-derived food products, we've waived the requirement for sanitary or animal and plant quarantine certificates, provided that animal and plant disease transmission risks have been eliminated. This change enables a broader range and greater variety of exhibits. We're also providing end-to-end guidance and customized services for participating enterprises, and we've enhanced our "Smart CIIE" system to create a more efficient, convenient and rapid supervision process for incoming exhibits.

The CIIE is held annually, yet this year's expo features an array of cutting-edge technologies and first-time exhibits that keep the event fresh. These include photocatalytic coatings representing the forefront of material science, smart road-marking paints, non-pneumatic tires for lunar rovers designed for extreme conditions, and direct air capture technology for green emission reductions. These innovations will further enhance the expo's reputation for product debuts. Moreover, the CIIE is not only a "feast for the eyes" but also a "golden gateway" to China's vast market. A standout exhibit, the 150-kilogram Maltese bluefin tuna, represents the first batch approved for import to China and will soon enter the Chinese market with customs support.

Next, customs will continue to align with the needs of the expo, maintaining a firm commitment to safety while ensuring high-level, high-standard, and high-quality support for all customs-related tasks. We aim to facilitate the participation of both new and returning friends from around the world in the CIIE, allowing them to share in the opportunities that China presents. Thank you!

Nanfang Daily, Nafang Plus:

In recent years, ASEAN has consistently maintained its position as China's largest trading partner. Could you please share information about the trade performance between China and ASEAN since the beginning of this year? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your question. In the first three quarters of this year, China's trade with ASEAN reached 5.09 trillion yuan, growing by 9.4%, which is 4.1 percentage points higher than the national growth rate. Of this total, exports amounted to 3.02 trillion yuan, up 12.3%, while imports reached 2.07 trillion yuan, increasing by 5.4%. The continued positive development of China-ASEAN trade can be attributed to several key factors:

First, the large markets on both sides provide strong support for bilateral trade development. The practical cooperation between China and ASEAN continues to deepen, and they have been each other's largest trading partners for four consecutive years. Last week, at the 27th China-ASEAN Summit, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized that "strengthening market connectivity is an important direction for further cooperation. "Looking ahead, the signing and implementation of the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement will provide stronger momentum for jointly building an enormous market.

Second, multi-dimensional connectivity makes trade exchanges more convenient and efficient. Land ports are bustling with activity; in the first three quarters, imports and exports through Friendship Pass — the largest land port between China and Vietnam — reached 336.34 billion yuan, up 15.6%. As smart port construction advances between China and Vietnam, more digital and intelligent technologies will accelerate bilateral trade. Railway channels continue to show strong performance, with cargo volume through the China-Laos Railway reaching 3.766 million metric tons, a 15% increase, while the trade value grew by 50.7%. Waterway routes are expanding, with Beibu Gulf Port now operating 35 routes to ASEAN countries, with its ASEAN trade volume up 12.8%.

Furthermore, deepening cooperation within the industrial chain has led to rapid growth in the import and export of intermediate goods. China has established close cooperation with ASEAN countries in sectors such as electronics, automobile manufacturing, and textiles and apparel, leading to continuous expansion of intermediate goods trade. In the first three quarters, China's import and export of intermediate goods with ASEAN reached 3.23 trillion yuan, representing nearly 60% of the total trade volume of 5.09 trillion yuan, marking a 9% increase. Specifically, the import and export of electronic intermediate goods, such as computer peripherals, flat-panel display modules and integrated circuits grew by 63.9%, 22.2% and 13%, respectively.

Lastly, complementary advantages in consumer goods provide a wider choice of specialty agricultural products. In the first three quarters, China imported agricultural products worth 184.83 billion yuan from ASEAN, making it the second largest source of agricultural imports for China. Newly added items this year, such as fresh durians from Malaysia, aquatic products from Brunei and coconuts from Vietnam, further enriched domestic consumption choices. Meanwhile, ASEAN stands as the largest export market for Chinese agricultural products, with Chinese fruits like oranges and pears, as well as vegetables like garlic and onions, being well-received in ASEAN markets. China's exports of dried and fresh fruits and vegetables to ASEAN grew by 18.4% and 15.5% respectively in the first three quarters. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Due to time constraints, we only have time for two final questions.

Haibao News:

Through your introduction just now, we learned that China's foreign trade with countries of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in the first three quarters has maintained a positive momentum. What highlights have emerged during this period? And what efforts has China Customs made in promoting the BRI? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your questions. With the solid advancement of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, China and its partner countries share opportunities and develop together. A series of landmark projects and "small yet exquisite" livelihood projects are contributing to the development of relevant countries, bringing convenience to local people. In the first three quarters of this year, China's imports and exports with BRI partner countries reached 15.21 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 6.3%, with growth higher than the overall rate. Among them, exports reached 8.49 trillion yuan, up 7.1%; and imports reached 6.72 trillion yuan, up 5.3%.

In terms of exports, in the first three quarters of this year, China saw a 16.6% increase in the export of small generators to Latin American countries within the BRI. Exports of wind turbines to Africa grew by 130%, while road construction machinery such as bulldozers and road rollers increased by 44.8%. This all contributed to the improvement of infrastructure in partner countries. Furthermore, exports of MRI machines to Southeast Asian countries within the BRI surged by 44%, and vaccine exports to Africa by 30%, aiding in the improvement of public health standards. Exports of passenger cars and motorcycles to Eastern European countries within the BRI increased by 34.6% and 37.9%, respectively, facilitating local transportation and meeting people's demands for better lives.

In terms of imports, during the same period, China saw imports of central processing components from Southeast Asian countries within the BRI grow by over 80%, and imports of automotive parts from Eastern Europe rise by 48.2%. The bilateral industry chain cooperation has been enhanced. At the same time, specialty agricultural products from partner countries have rapidly entered the Chinese market. Imports of kiwis, apples and other dried and fresh fruits and nuts from countries in Oceania within the BRI surged by 28.4%, while imports of soybeans, barley, sorghum and other grains from Latin America increased by 32.5%. These developments not only benefit producers in various countries but also enrich domestic supplies.

Since the beginning of this year, the GACC has been actively implementing the eight major steps to support high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. These efforts have focused on three areas: First, we have intensified our efforts to ensure market access for agri-food products from Belt and Road partner countries, finalizing 66 protocols on agricultural products and food, as well as 11 technical cooperation agreements on animal and plant inspection and quarantine. Second, we have been working hard to facilitate trade and ensure security with Belt and Road partner countries. We have convened multi-level customs clearance coordination mechanism meetings with Vietnam, Russia and Kazakhstan. We have also adjusted and optimized port operating hours, improved border infrastructure, and accelerated construction of "green lanes" for fast customs clearance of agricultural products. These measures have significantly improved connectivity. Third, we have been working hard to promote pragmatic cooperation with relevant departments in Belt and Road partner countries. We signed authorized economic operator (AEO) mutual recognition agreements with Burundi, Morocco, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and signed "single window" collaboration agreements with Malaysia and Russia. Moreover, we have also reached an agreement with Serbia on mutual administrative assistance in customs matters, which has boosted bilateral economic and trade growth. Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

We will take one last question, please.

Jinan Times App:

Cross-border e-commerce has been a consistent focus of the government's work report for 11 consecutive years, driving significant growth in foreign trade. How has the import and export of cross-border e-commerce performed in the first three quarters of this year? What efforts has the GACC made to promote the healthy development of the cross-border e-commerce? Thank you. 

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your questions. The import and export data of cross-border e-commerce has been a subject of great interest. According to China's cross-border e-commerce statistical survey system, statistical surveys for cross-border e-commerce sector are conducted twice a year, in the form of semi-annual and annual reports. The statistical survey for the first half of this year has just concluded. I would like to share the data for the first half of the year.

In the first half of the year, China's cross-border e-commerce trade reached 1.25 trillion yuan, an increase of 13% year on year, representing a record high compared with the same period in previous years. It made up 5.9% of China's total import and export value, up 0.4 percentage point from the first half of 2023. Exports increased by 18.7% to around 979.9 billion yuan, while imports dropped by 3.9% to 266.4 billion yuan. In terms of export destination and source of imports, exports to the United States accounted for 34.2%, followed by the United Kingdom at 8.1%, Germany at 6.2% and France at 4.5%. Exports to Asian markets such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan were also very vibrant. Imports from the United States accounted for 16.7%, followed by Australia at 11.3%, and Japan at 10.6%. Germany, France and New Zealand were also major sources of imports.

In terms of commodity structure, apparel, shoes and jewelry were the top export, making up 27.3% of the total. Exports of electronics like cellphones stood at 14.4%, and exports of products like home textiles was 12.4%. When it comes to imports, the share of beauty and personal care products was 28.8%, while fresh food accounted for 25.2%. Geographically speaking, top exporters were Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian and Jiangsu provinces, while major importers were Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai and Beijing.

To supplement the biannual statistical survey on cross-border e-commerce, we conduct preliminary estimates every month to track the latest trade developments. According to the latest preliminary estimates, China's cross-border e-commerce trade reached 1.88 trillion yuan in the first three quarters, representing an 11.5% increase year on year. Exports accounted for 1.48 trillion yuan, up 15.2%, while imports totaled 399.16 billion yuan, down 0.4%.

In recent years, the GACC has been at the forefront of supporting the development of cross-border e-commerce and other new business formats. In June, the GACC and relevant departments jointly released guidelines on expanding cross-border e-commerce exports and advancing the construction of overseas warehouses. Customs authorities nationwide have been committed to implementing relevant policies and measures. We have been promoting the practice of paperless customs declarations for overseas warehouses, strengthening intellectual property rights protection, and deepening the comprehensive reform of cross-border e-commerce. By doing all this, we aim to foster collaboration and joint governance between customs authorities and cross-border e-commerce platforms, so as to promote the high-quality development of cross-border e-commerce. Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to our speakers, and thank you to all the reporters for your participation. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye. 

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Li Xiao, Wang Xingguang, Xu Xiaoxuan, Mi Xingang, Xiang Bin, Yang Chuanli, Chen Xinyan, Gong Yingchun, Liu Sitong, Wang Qian, Wang Wei, Wang Yiming, Yuan Fang, Huang Shan, Li Huiru, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Luo Wen, minister of the State Administration for Market Regulation

Mr. Wang Jiangping, vice minister of industry and information technology

Mr. Hu Weilie, vice minister of justice

Ms. Cong Lin, vice minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Oct. 14, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning! Welcome to today's press conference organized by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). We are delighted to have Mr. Luo Wen, minister of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), to brief you on efforts to step up support for enterprises, and to answer your questions. We are also joined today by Mr. Wang Jiangping, vice minister of industry and information technology; Mr. Hu Weilie, vice minister of justice; and Ms. Cong Lin, vice minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA).

Now, I will give the floor to Mr. Luo Wen for his briefing.

Luo Wen:

Good morning, everyone. On Sept. 26, the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held a meeting to outline a comprehensive package of incremental policies for the next stage of economic development. On Sept. 29, the State Council convened for a special meeting to discuss how these policies would be implemented. The decisions made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council clearly demonstrate their dedication to addressing the concerns of businesses and invigorating the vitality of market entities. In line with these directives, I, along with my colleagues from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and the NFRA, will present the specific policies and measures our departments have formulated to support businesses. We will also answer your questions. Let me elaborate on six key areas.

First, we will provide targeted support to various business entities. We aim to address the practical challenges faced by small and micro enterprises in their daily operations and continue to intensify targeted assistance for self-employed individuals. Efforts will be made to promote the coordinated development of platform companies and the businesses they host. We will soon introduce specific measures to guide platform companies in leveraging their user base for positive outcomes and in supporting the development of small and micro enterprises. Furthermore, we will actively help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that possess competitive advantages to enhance their capabilities for innovation and specialization, accelerating the high-quality development of innovative SMEs that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products, as well as "little giant" enterprises with high growth potential.

Second, we will effectively and significantly alleviate the burdens that businesses face. We are committed to reducing the cost of systemic transactions by advancing reforms designed to streamline how tasks are completed—from a cumbersome process requiring multiple locations, windows and visits to a simplified one that can be accomplished in a single location through a single window and in one visit. Special efforts will be made to lighten the load on businesses by focusing on both key entities that charge fees as well as critical industry sectors. This includes conducting targeted inspections and random checks on improper fee collection from businesses as well as expediting the process of refunding these fees to provide immediate financial relief to businesses. Moreover, we are dedicated to enhancing the ongoing regulatory mechanisms related to business fees, advocating for the revision of regulations that ensure timely payments to SMEs and rigorously protecting the legitimate rights and interests of businesses.

Third, we will foster a fair, competitive market environment. In response to local protectionism and market segmentation, we will roll out and implement more rigid and enforceable institutional measures. We will accelerate the revision of the Anti-Unfair Competition Law to prevent and deter unfair competitive practices. We are also committed to robustly enforcing the Fair Competition Review Regulations, eliminating policies and measures that undermine a unified market and fair competition. This will further unleash the potential of China's vast market scale. Additionally, we will intensively manage market order, specifically targeting illegal activities such as intellectual property infringement, the misappropriation of trade secrets as well as the production and sale of counterfeit goods. We will enhance the dynamism of business development by maintaining a well-ordered market.

Fourth, we will strengthen supportive resources for business entities. The NFRA will push financial institutions to increase their support for the real economy, quickly improving the mechanisms for coordinating financing support for small and micro enterprises, and helping to alleviate their funding challenges. The SAMR will collaborate with other departments to introduce innovative quality financing and credit enhancement policies, promoting mechanisms based on companies' technological capabilities and quality qualifications to improve the accessibility and convenience of financing for small businesses. The MIIT will actively provide SMEs with one-stop services, including talent acquisition, financing support and digital enablement, fully helping enterprises reduce costs, improve efficiency and enhance quality.

Fifth, we will firmly protect the legal rights of business entities. We are accelerating the implementation of a law on private sector promotion to guarantee equal treatment and protection for private enterprises, fostering an optimal environment for the growth of the non-public sector. We will effectively implement the Regulations on Optimizing the Business Environment, aiming to lift restrictions on the market while ensuring effective regulation. In response to issues like unfair market access barriers and restrictions on businesses relocating across regions, we will quickly develop and introduce effective measures that address the concerns of business entities. Additionally, we will conduct thorough evaluations and clean ups of legal and regulatory policies impacting businesses, eradicating any discrimination or differential treatment based on ownership, size or geographic location.

Lastly, we will standardize law enforcement and supervision related to businesses. The MOJ will strengthen oversight of administrative law enforcement concerning businesses, actively promoting strict, procedure-based, impartial and non-abusive law enforcement. We will address prominent issues in administrative law enforcement and improve communication mechanisms for handling business-related appeals. The process for handling administrative reconsideration cases involving businesses will be expedited. We will ensure that administrative agencies perform their duties in accordance with the law. The SAMR will accelerate the introduction of specific initiatives for service-oriented law enforcement. This will involve establishing standards for administrative actions and increasing the usage of flexible approaches such as warnings and guidance. Services will be incorporated throughout the entire regulatory and enforcement process to effectively guide businesses towards lawful and compliant operations.

This concludes my briefing. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Luo, for your briefing. We will now open the floor to questions. Please raise your hand and state the news outlet you represent before asking your questions.

Zhonghongwang.com:

Recently, it was stressed at a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee that we should effectively implement existing policies while launching robust incremental policies. What policies and measures will the SAMR roll out soon to stimulate business entities' vitality while improving policies and measures to be more targeted and effective? Thank you.

Luo Wen:

Thank you for your question. The SAMR has always paid close attention to supporting business entities. In accordance with the central authorities' arrangements for implementing an incremental policy package, we will introduce policies and measures in the following four aspects:

First, we will guide platform companies in using their traffic to help merchants on the platform increase brand awareness and expand market transaction volume. We will issue opinions on guiding online marketplaces to positively leverage online traffic to support the development of micro-, small- and medium-sized businesses. We will encourage such platforms to allocate online traffic reasonably, focusing on three types of businesses: agricultural product operators, specialty businesses, and newly settled merchants. Additionally, platforms should leverage large-scale sales promotion activities to increase traffic for businesses, helping improve traffic utilization efficiency and management capabilities. This approach aims to fully stimulate businesses' internal drive and market vitality within the platform. 

Second, we will promote the use of quality reputation as a basis for corporate financing. We'll push financial institutions to incorporate quality-related factors such as a company's quality capabilities, management quality, and brand quality into their credit approval and risk management models. In particular, financial institutions should design tailored financial products and services for micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, implementing differentiated arrangements in terms of credit limits, interest rates, financing terms, and repayment methods. This will improve the accessibility and convenience of financing for businesses. Together with equity, funds and bond-based financing tools, the country aims to generate a credit enhancement and financing quota of 300 billion yuan each year, which will benefit all enterprises.

Third, we will provide targeted assistance to self-employed individuals according to categories and types. As we know, most business entities in our country are self-employed individuals. As of the end of August, there were 125 million self-employed individuals, accounting for two-thirds of all business entities. Consequently, self-employed individuals play an important role in stabilizing employment, improving well-being, and boosting growth. The SAMR categorizes self-employed individuals into three stages and four types. The stages are survival, growth, and development, while the types are famous, special, outstanding and innovative. A unified national directory based on this classification will be established by year-end. Using this directory, we'll collaborate with relevant departments to launch targeted policies on tax, social security, employment and financing. This will enable local governments to offer tailored assistance to self-employed individuals for workspace, costs, training and recruitment.

Fourth, we will quickly develop and update key standards for equipment renewal and consumer goods trade-ins. Large-scale equipment renewals and consumer goods trade-ins can effectively boost investment and consumption, significantly increasing growth potential for enterprises. This year, the SAMR assigned 130 tasks regarding the formulation and revision of important standards relating to equipment renewal and consumer goods trade-ins. So far, 74 of them have been completed. Next, we'll implement actions to refine and accelerate standards development. We'll prioritize upgrading technical standards for energy use and emissions, improving product safety standards, and expanding standards for recycling. These efforts aim to promote equipment renewal and consumer goods trade-ins through enhanced standards.

These are the four major initiatives we plan to roll out to enhance the vitality of business entities. Thank you.

Yicai:

The draft law on the promotion of the private sector is currently seeking public comments. It's believed to be a crucial step for boosting the confidence of private businesses. How does the MOJ think this law will impact the development environment for the private sector? Thank you.

Hu Weilie:

I'll answer this question. I appreciate the keen interest from both the media and the public in this law. Since the draft law was released for comment, the MOJ has received more than 1,000 ideas and suggestions. The formulation of this law is a decision and arrangement of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. It was also a clear requirement made at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. As China's first fundamental law dedicated to boosting the private sector, it upholds Party leadership and the fundamental socialist economic systems. It commits to unswervingly consolidating and developing the public sector and unswervingly encouraging, supporting, and guiding the development of the non-public sector. This draft law incorporates approaches and policies for developing the private economy adopted by the CPC Central Committee and State Council since reform and opening-up began, especially after the 18th CPC National Congress, along with effective practices, into the legal system. The draft law enshrines equal treatment and protection for private businesses, aiming to establish a long-term mechanism that stabilizes development expectations for private enterprises and entrepreneurs while boosting the private sector. As a groundbreaking move, the draft law includes terms such as staying committed to unswervingly consolidating and developing the public sector, unswervingly encouraging, supporting, and guiding the development of the non-public sector, as well as cultivating and advocating entrepreneurship. It also clarifies that promoting the private sector's sustained, healthy and high-quality development is a persistent national policy. The draft law clearly indicates that boosting the private sector is a consistent and long-term Party and government policy. These contents, after being written into law, will provide a stable binding force to facilitate the sustained, healthy and high-quality development of the private sector and create a more beneficial environment for the common development of economic entities under all forms of ownership, including private ones.

In terms of market access, the draft law makes several clear stipulations. All types of economic organizations, including private ones, may operate in accordance with law and on an equal footing in fields not included in the negative lists for market access. The system for fair competition review should be implemented, and policies and measures must go through such review before being issued. Private economic organizations shouldn't be limited or excluded from bidding, government procurement and other public resource trading activities. These measures aim to promote fair competition with participation from private businesses.

In terms of sci-tech innovation, the draft explicitly supports the active participation of private sector in developing new quality productive forces, and encourages its participation in national sci-tech research projects. The draft also supports capable private enterprises and organizations in taking the lead in major technological breakthrough tasks, guarantees their participation in standard setting and the development and utilization of public data resources in accordance with the law, and strengthens the protection of their intellectual property rights.

In terms of investment and financing support, the draft focuses on optimizing the investment and financing environment for private sector, supporting the participation of private enterprises and organizations in national major strategies and major projects. Governments at all levels and their departments are required to facilitate the promotion and connection of investment projects, supporting private enterprises and organizations in revitalizing existing assets and enhancing reinvestment capabilities. The draft also supports financial institutions in developing financial products and services tailored to private economic entities, providing them with rights-based pledged loans. Differentiated supervision is implemented for financial institutions providing financial services to micro- and small-sized private enterprises, allowing for a reasonable tolerance for non-performing loans. The establishment of a market-based risk-sharing mechanism for financing private enterprises and organizations is also promoted.

In terms of operation regulations, the draft imposes requirements on private sector to operate in accordance with the law, proactively integrate into national strategies, actively fulfill its social responsibilities, and serve the economic and social development with private capital. These measures will better ensure the stable and far-reaching development of private enterprises within the legal framework, promote the development of the private sector, and facilitate the growth of individuals within the private sector.

In terms of service guarantees and rights protection, the draft strengthens the supervision of administrative law enforcement, standardizes enforcement inspection procedures, and stipulates that administrative penalties must be commensurate with the facts, nature, circumstances and degree of social harm of the violations. It requires that any restrictions on personal freedom must be in accordance with statutory powers, conditions and procedures. No exceeding of powers, scope, amounts, time limits for sealing, seizure or freezing of property is allowed. Unlawfully intervening in economic disputes through administrative or criminal means is prohibited. Firm measures have been taken to curb arbitrary fines, inspections and seizures. These provisions establish basic principles of the rule of law and legal compliance for law enforcement and supervision involving enterprises, further optimizing the legal environment for doing business, enabling private enterprises and entrepreneurs to do business and develop with peace of mind.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

Micro- and small-sized enterprises are crucial for stabilizing the economy, expanding employment and improving people's livelihoods. Could you please elaborate on the measures taken by the NFRA to assist enterprises in difficulty and alleviate financing challenges for micro- and small-sized business entities? Thank you.

Cong Lin:

Thank you for your question. Micro- and small-sized enterprises are closely connected to countless households. I appreciate your attention to the financial work concerning these enterprises. In accordance with the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, especially following the guiding principles of the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Sept. 26, we have been guiding financial institutions to increase financial support to the real economy and optimize financial services for various types of business entities. Recently, we have introduced a series of measures focused on supporting enterprises. The key aim of these measures is to address the financing bottlenecks and obstacles for micro- and small-sized enterprises, optimize the business environment, facilitate financing channels, and strive to maintain quality services while offering more competitive pricing.

Let me start by presenting a set of financial data. Overall, the supply of credit has been steadily increasing. By the end of August, the balance of RMB loans had reached 252.02 trillion yuan, an increase of 8.5% year on year. Insurance companies provided various financing support totaling 28.8 trillion yuan through bonds, stocks and other means. In terms of structure, support for key areas continues to increase. Loans to inclusive micro- and small-sized enterprises grew by 16.1% year on year, while loans to private enterprises increased by 9%. Regarding the price, interest rates have remained stable with a slight decline. From January to August this year, the interest rate on newly issued loans to inclusive micro- and small-sized enterprises decreased by 0.4% compared to the same period last year.

Here are some specific measures:

First, optimizing the policy of loan renewals without principal repayment to ease cash flow pressures for businesses. This policy not only applies to micro- and small-sized enterprises but has also temporarily been expanded to medium-sized enterprises. It should be emphasized that eligible renewal loans should not have their risk classification downgraded solely due to the renewal process. Banks need to enhance risk management, taking into account factors such as the borrower's repayment capacity and collateral, to appropriately classify the risk associated with each renewal loan.

Second, collaborating with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) to establish a financing coordination mechanism to support micro- and small-sized enterprises. The core of this mechanism involves setting up specialized teams at the district and county levels to facilitate precise communication between banks and enterprises. On the enterprise side, a comprehensive understanding of the actual business operations within the jurisdiction will be obtained to achieve targeted assistance and effectively address the financing challenges faced by enterprises. On the bank side, obstacles and bottlenecks in information and fund transmission will be cleared. The goal is to ensure that legally compliant enterprises with genuine financing needs and good credit standing can access the financing they need through this mechanism. Moreover, the funds are direct without intermediaries, and the financing costs are reasonable.

Third, further leveraging the protective role of insurance. In areas such as construction projects and foreign trade exports, the substitution of deposits with performance guarantee insurance and tariff guarantee insurance is encouraged. In the first half of the year, this measure has freed up capital for 520,000 companies, reducing their financial pressure on cash flow. Additionally, export credit insurance companies are encouraged in providing comprehensive financial services such as "credit guarantee + policy financing" to address the concerns of exporters.

Fourth, improving the liability exemption system. We all know that the key to enhancing financial services for micro and small enterprises is to relieve the burden on primary-level lending personnel and foster a positive atmosphere that encourages responsibility among them while ensuring that they will be exempt from liability under the purview of due diligence. Recently, we further revised the original notice about the liability exemption mechanism for inclusive lending, clarifying various exemption situations. For personnel who basically fulfill their job responsibilities and only make minor mistakes, their liability will be reduced or exempted. We learned that many banks have already refined and improved their internal regulations according to regulatory requirements, and the number and proportion of exemptions have increased.

In addition, our regulatory work will be more targeted. Under the premise of law-based and comprehensive regulation, we will adopt more flexible and inclusive regulatory measures, such as policy guidance, risk alerts and prompts for corrective action, to address general and operational risks in inclusive finance, particularly in services for micro and small enterprises. This approach integrates regulation with service. With this more humane approach, we aim to enhance the enthusiasm and proactivity of financial institutions to implement support policies, thereby creating a favorable environment for business development.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Beijing Youth Daily:

Arbitrary fees imposed on enterprises not only increase their burden but also harm the business environment. What steps will be taken to address the issue of illegal charges on enterprises, in order to alleviate their burden while also protecting their legal rights and interests? Thank you.

Luo Wen:

Thank you. I will answer this question. Recently, the SAMR has intensified its enforcement efforts against illegal charges on businesses, aiming to genuinely help alleviate the burden on enterprises.

First, we will resolutely prohibit the illegal establishment of fee items. We will call on government departments, affiliated units and industry associations to ensure that policy documents related to fees have a legal basis. Any documents found to lack legal justification during inspections will be promptly revised or abolished. For charging entities like financial institutions, and utilities such as water, electricity, gas and heating, we will enhance inspections and random checks to firmly address issues such as double charging and compulsory fees. We will improve the directory of all enterprise-related fees, and fully disclose fee items, bases and standards. Any charges not included in the directory will be strictly prohibited.

Second, we will increase punishments for arbitrary charging practices. For administrative agencies, public institutions and social organizations with the function of public affairs management, and organizations with dominant positions in specific fields, we will comprehensively employ market regulation, industry regulation and credit supervision to strengthen penalties for such behaviors and make public major cases that have garnered strong social response. We will enhance the publicity and interpretation of typical cases, clarifying laws and regulations through these examples, helping fee-paying enterprises to understand fee policies while ensuring charging entities adhere to policy boundaries, thus fully utilizing social supervision. We will strengthen coordination of administrative enforcement of law and discipline, and promptly transfer evidence of disciplinary offences according to procedures.

Third, we will strengthen the legal safeguards for regulating enterprise-related fees. Taking the revision of the Price Law as an opportunity, we will clarify the legal requirements related to fee management for state organs and public institutions. We will promote the formulation of the Measures for Handling Irregular Charges on Enterprises, detailing the standards for identifying such violations and increasing administrative penalties. We will expedite revisions and improvements to the enforcement and compliance guidelines for enterprise-related fees across various sectors, solidifying the legal foundation for regulating fees. Additionally, we will enhance the implementation of the Compliance Guidelines for Charging Behaviors of Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce to further regulate the charging practices of social organizations and optimize the business environment.

Fourth, we will improve the long-term regulatory mechanism for enterprise-related fees. We will address arbitrary charging issues at the source, exploring the establishment of a compliance review system for fee-related policy documents. We will enhance the scrutiny of these documents to effectively address issues that policies may impose additional payment obligations on enterprises and increase their burden. We will improve the regular mechanism for collecting evidence of such issues and set up monitoring points for enterprise-related fees, fully leveraging their role as the "outpost" in combating arbitrary charges. At the same time, we will work out innovative regulatory methods, and improve approaches such as reminders, enforcement orders, consultations and supervisory directives to ensure that arbitrary charging issues are adequately rectified.

That is all from me. Thank you.

Jimu News:

Innovative SMEs that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products have garnered significant attention. What measures can we expect in the future to further cultivate such enterprises? Thank you.

Wang Jiangping:

Thank you for your interest in these innovative SMEs that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products. Supporting the development of SMEs is a long-term strategy of our country. As the comprehensive management department of the State Council responsible for supporting SMEs, the MIIT has always encouraged the development of innovative enterprises that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products, and has been progressively cultivating high-quality SMEs. Currently, China has 141,000 such innovative SMEs, including 14,600 "little giant" enterprises, which play a significant role in promoting new industrialization and developing new quality productive forces. Next, the MIIT will work with relevant departments to establish a mechanism that promotes the growth and development of such innovative SMEs, improving the full-cycle cultivation system of "selection, nurturing and excellence" to facilitate their high-quality development.

In terms of technological innovation, we have collaborated with the Ministry of Finance to launch a new round of support policies for these innovative enterprises. This year, with financial support from the central government, we will assist over 1,000 key "little giant" enterprises in creating new momentum, tackling new technologies, developing new products, and strengthening the supporting capabilities of the industrial chain. Through special re-lending projects, we will support the technological transformation and equipment updates of more than 1,100 "little giant" enterprises. We have released a directory of pilot service resources for SMEs, prioritizing support for "little giant" enterprises to participate in application plans for key products and processes. We have implemented a plan to promote the industrialization of patents as part of the efforts to support the growth of SMEs, providing services related to intellectual property, such as rapid pre-examination and rights confirmation, for eligible innovative SMEs that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products.

In terms of digital transformation, we have selected the second batch of pilot cities for SMEs' digitalization, which will be backed by central government funds worth 2.7 billion yuan and local government investment funds that are worth more than 12 billion yuan. Next year, another batch of pilot cities will be chosen to help over 40,000 SMEs across the country achieve digitalization. 

In terms of financial support, the MIIT will work with China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) to launch the third batch of dedicated boards in regional equity markets for SMEs that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products. We are set to sign a strategic cooperation agreement with the Beijing Stock Exchange to further expand channels to finance these enterprises. We are going to focus on key industrial chains with relevant departments to carry out a national campaign for the financial promotion of SMEs, targeting designated chains in different months and directly linking SMEs with financial institutions.

In terms of services and guarantees, we encourage "little giant" enterprises to set up postdoctoral research stations, give senior ranking personnel the right to provide recommendations and support SMEs that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products, so as to pilot senior professional titles' independent evaluations in these enterprises. They are also provided with preferential policies on aspects including registering permanent residencies, housing and children's education for talents. We have established SME service networks at the national, provincial, city and county levels, gathering more than 1,780 public service institutions to resolve the "last-mile" problem on policy, technology, management and service resources. Thank you!

Bloomberg:

In recent years, the numbers of new startups and unicorn enterprises have decreased while the venture capital industry has also faced various challenges. How do you plan to foster more unicorn firms and what are the biggest obstacles? Thank you.

Wang Jiangping:

Thank you for your questions. As representative enterprises for a new economy, new business form and new model, unicorn companies have become a new asset in fostering new quality productive forces by featuring fast development speeds and high growth rates. In recent years, a number of super unicorn companies have emerged in China, with unicorn firms continuously increasing and their comprehensive capacities greatly improving. At present, Chinese unicorn enterprises are not only stationed in Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, but also nestled in Chongqing, Tianjin, Chengdu, Changsha, Wuhan and other cities, showcasing an emerging trend of diversified development. In recent years, unicorn enterprises from high-end manufacturing, consumer and retail, high-tech and other related fields have accounted for more than 78% of the total volume, and more than half of last year's new unicorn enterprises came from hard technology sectors such as new energy, artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

The growth of unicorn enterprises on the one hand depends on their own technological strengths, while, on the other hand, requires a favorable business environment. Next, the MIIT will take the following measures to boost the growth of such firms. First, a unified national cultivation system for unicorn enterprises will be established, with coordination between state organs and provincial governments. Second, technological innovation will be pushed and unicorn firms will be guided in carrying out scientific research on the basis of national strategic needs and to achieve remarkable results. Third, financial support like industry and financing cooperation platforms will be given full play to help unicorn enterprises go public, merge and reorganize. Fourth, future-oriented industries, including atomic-level manufacturing, brain-computer interface and 6G will be boosted with forward-looking plans, promoting the development of unicorn enterprises. Fifth, unicorn enterprises will be supported to join the global innovation network and conduct innovative cooperation. We warmly welcome international innovation teams to start businesses in China as well as welcome foreign capital to invest in unicorn enterprises in China. We are ready to share with the rest of the world China's development opportunities with entrepreneurship and innovation. Thank you!

Red Star News:

Currently, improper behaviors still exist in enterprise-related law enforcement, and some administrative law enforcement personnels act inappropriately and even rudely. What measures will the MOJ take to intensify the supervision of enterprise-related administrative law enforcement, build law-enforcement capacity and correct wrongdoing according to the law? Thank you.

Hu Weilie:

Thank you for your question. Regarding prominent problems with administrative law enforcement, the MOJ will give full play to the functions of inspecting the rule of law, coordinating and supervising administrative law enforcement as well as administrative reconsideration, and will work with relevant departments to form synergy and intensify oversight to comprehensively improve the quality and efficiency of law enforcement. 

We will make great efforts to address prominent problems frequently complained about by enterprises and the public, including irresponsible and neglectful administrative law enforcement. Recently, the Commission for Overall Law-based Governance under the CPC Central Committee launched enforcement inspections targeting the law-based business environment. The MOJ and relevant departments currently are conducting a special nationwide inspection campaign that focuses on rectifying wrongdoing such as disturbing business operations with law enforcement or law enforcement for the purpose of increasing revenue. Relevant government organs will be asked to push forward rectifications to further increasing people's sense of satisfaction. We will release a batch of administrative law enforcement supervision cases soon to guide judicial and administrative organs at all levels with intensifying enterprise-related law enforcement oversight.

We will make great efforts to improve business-related inspections. We have recently noticed that during the process of soliciting public opinion on draft law on private sector promotion, enterprises complained a lot about overly frequent, arbitrary and repeated inspections, which disturbed the enterprises' normal operations. With the current special oversight, we have made administrative inspections a priority, and have made more efforts to rectify and standardize irregular and excessive inspections. Typical cases will be made known after the enforcement inspection to strengthen supervision on improvements. Looking forward, we will formulate relevant regulations, improve management and procedures with administrative inspection and will guide law enforcement authorities at all levels to initiate tiered and classified inspections. By doing so, the rigid constraints of abolishing irregular and excessive inspections will be strengthened by institutions. At the same time, a national information system on integrated management and supervision for administrative law enforcement will be accelerated to govern such procedures through the use of information technology.

We will comprehensively strengthen supervision over fines. We will standardize the setting and implementation of fines in accordance with the law, and resolutely prevent the use of fines to increase income or take the place of governance. We will vigorously promote the establishment of a system of standards across various regions and relevant departments on administrative discretion for matters such as administrative penalties and administrative inspections, so as to effectively solve the problem of inconsistent and uncoordinated law enforcement standards.

We will encourage law enforcement departments at all levels to establish and improve the economic impact assessment system for enterprise-related law enforcement, so as to minimize the negative impact of administrative law enforcement activities on the normal production and operation of enterprises. When administrative departments file a case, investigate, take coercive measures such as sealing, sequestering, and freezing of assets, or impose major administrative penalties on an enterprise involved in a case, they are required to conduct a comprehensive study into the possible impact on the enterprise's production and operation activities, and undertake targeted prevention and response measures.

We will strengthen communication mechanisms for business-related law enforcement and form a joint force for supervision. This includes establishing comprehensive information-sharing and cooperation mechanisms between administrative law enforcement supervision and channels like the 12345 government service hotline and online media. We will implement an enterprise contact system for administrative law enforcement supervision, collect and coordinate information on law enforcement violations related to enterprises, and ensure relevant law enforcement departments promptly correct issues.

We will improve the system for managing administrative law enforcement personnel and improve their quality and abilities. This includes clarifying qualification requirements for administrative law enforcement personnel and ensuring strict entry standards. We will issue guidelines on non-abusive law enforcement for law enforcement personnel, guide law enforcement personnel to carry out law enforcement activities in a non-abusive way, and conduct training for administrative law enforcement personnel in different levels and categories. We will strictly implement the responsibility system for administrative law enforcement, and promptly transfer any evidence discovered about violations of disciplines and laws by law enforcement personnel to the disciplinary inspection and supervision authorities. That's all from me. Thank you.

CCTV:

The meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee pointed out that in order to help enterprises navigate difficulties, it is necessary to further standardize the law enforcement and regulatory behaviors related to enterprises. What other targeted measures will the SAMR take in regulating law enforcement and supervision of enterprises? Thank you.

Luo Wen:

Thank you for your question. The SAMR will soon release the Guiding Opinions on Firmly Establishing the Concept of Supervision for the People and Promoting Service-Oriented Law Enforcement and the Code of Conduct for Market Supervision and Law Enforcement. These will further standardize law enforcement and supervision behavior from the following four aspects:

First, we will refine the standards for administrative discretion and proportional punishment. We will improve the system for the discretion of administrative penalties in market regulation, promote the alignment of administrative law enforcement standards across regions, implement a guiding case system, and promote the unification of law enforcement standards. Minor violations of the law will be exempted from punishment or given lighter or mitigated punishments. However, those who endanger the lives and health of the people and the safety of property, harm the public interest, challenge the moral bottom line and cause significant social impact, shall be severely punished in accordance with the law. 

Second, we will optimize law enforcement methods to reflect a more considerate approach. By using reasoning-based law enforcement documents and language, we aim to clearly explain the facts of the violation, the basis for punishment and the available remedies to the parties involved, and strive to gain their understanding and cooperation. We will improve the law enforcement that combines punishment with education, and adhere to the principle of popularizing legal knowledge in advance, reasoning during the incident and resolving doubts afterward. We will establish mechanisms for post-case guidance, rectification checks and assistance for difficulties, so as to encourage the parties concerned to comply with decisions and correct illegal behaviors.

Third, we will standardize routine supervision to avoid unnecessary disturbances. We will fully implement practices such as the random selection of inspectors and inspection targets, and the prompt release of results. By using databases of inspection targets and law enforcement inspection personnel, we will randomly select inspection objects, randomly select inspectors, and ensure no repetitive, overlapping or excessive inspections. We will strengthen categorized credit risk management for enterprises, scientifically apply risk levels, and reasonably determine and dynamically adjust the proportions and frequency of inspections. Enterprises maintaining good credit will be left undisturbed. We will also accelerate the promotion of cross-departmental comprehensive supervision and joint inspections, aim to achieve "multiple checks during a single visit," so as to truly reduce the burden on enterprises.

Fourth, we will enhance legal education services and promote enterprise self-discipline. We will take legal education as the prerequisite and basis for supervision and law enforcement. We will take the prevention of illegal acts and serving the healthy development of business entities as important tasks of legal supervision. And we will make better use of the legal education and administrative guidance to help enterprises correct deviations and prevent mistakes. In addition, enterprises will be encouraged to strengthen compliance capacity, increase awareness of integrity and abiding by the law, and enhance their capabilities to operate in accordance with laws and regulations. It is necessary to conduct in-depth analysis and assessments on issues that signal unfavorable trends and potentials in individual cases. We will promptly remind, warn and urge similar enterprises, and promote enterprises to consciously operate in accordance with laws. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

We have noticed that some industrial enterprises are currently facing issues such as insufficient orders. As the industry's governing body, what considerations and specific measures are the MIIT taking to help enterprises expand markets and boost domestic demand? Thank you.

Wang Jiangping:

In the fourth quarter, the MIIT will work with relevant departments to launch a number of specific measures to promote consumption and expand domestic demand to help enterprises expand markets and unleash their potential.

First, we will focus on the leading role of investment and implement technological transformation and equipment upgrading projects. We will expedite the approval and funding for projects supported by ultra-long-term special treasury bonds, and accelerate the issuance of 150 billion yuan in relending loans for technological transformation that have been signed. In the coming period, we will recommend a new batch of special relending projects to banks, and plan in advance the pilot cities for manufacturing technological transformation in 2025. We will organize reserve projects in the industrial field to start construction and create more physical workload as soon as possible. Currently, there are about 36,000 projects under construction or set to start within the year in the industrial sector, which are expected to drive over 11 trillion yuan in investment over the next three years.

Second, to expand consumption, we will organize a series of initiatives to improve supply and promote upgrading. First, we will promote the trade-in of consumer goods. To facilitate the trade-in of electric bikes, we have formulated and implemented mandatory national standards for lithium batteries, chargers and electrical safety, and have published a list of 31 qualified electric bike companies in two batches. Second, we will intensify the promotion of new energy vehicles. By the end of this year, we will continue to hold dedicated events to promote new energy vehicles in rural areas while expanding charging infrastructure in these areas. We will also designate additional pilot cities for the full electrification of public-sector vehicles. Third, we will initiate a matrix of renowned Chinese consumer goods, selecting and establishing a thousand products across three categories: historical classics, contemporary premium items and trendsetting products. We will launch the first batch of 100 globally recognized brands and organize global promotional activities. Fourth, we will establish specialty food production hubs nationwide, improve supply and promote upgrading in the textile and apparel sectors, and conduct national events such as the "Foodie Festival,"  under an initiative to increase product variety, improve quality and strengthen brand-building.

Third, we will deepen scenario applications and foster new quality productive forces such as low-altitude economy and intelligent manufacturing. With a focus on building a low-altitude industrial ecosystem, we will support regions with abundant airspace resources and diverse application scenarios to take the lead in piloting initiatives. Tailored to local conditions, we will create a demonstration system for multi-scenario low-altitude applications, advance new consumption formats like low-altitude logistics, urban and intercity air transport and low-altitude cultural tourism, and expand new models such as agricultural and forestry plant protection, inspection and patrol, and emergency rescue, creating a new engine for economic growth. We will issue guidelines to drive innovation in future industries, vigorously developing new areas such as humanoid robots, brain-computer interfaces and 6G. In addition, we will support enterprises in upgrading intelligent manufacturing, focusing on the application of intelligent manufacturing technology in typical industries and fostering a tiered development of intelligent factories at basic, advanced, excellent and leading levels.

That's all I have to say. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

In the interest of time, last question. 

China Banking and Insurance News:

In light of difficulties with financing and high costs that are faced by small and micro enterprises, a coordination mechanism to support their financing has recently been established. Could you share some specific arrangements for this mechanism. Thank you!

Cong Lin:

Thank you for the question. Small and micro enterprises play a significant role in driving the economy, creating jobs and improving livelihoods. Drawing on thorough research and the experiences of relevant mechanisms, the NFRA has taken the initiative to establish a coordination mechanism to support financing for small and micro enterprises. This mechanism aims to leverage the advantages of the Party's leadership and the institutional framework of socialism with Chinese characteristics, strengthen coordination between central and local governments, tackles both the challenges small and micro enterprises face in securing financing and the difficulties banks encounter in lending to them. We will soon hold a dedicated meeting to outline the plans. Let me introduce the mechanism from three dimensions: who will take the lead, how it will be implement and what goals will be achieved.

First is the question of "who will take the lead." At the national level, the NFRA and the NDRC will spearhead efforts, working together with relevant government departments and banking institutions. The NFRA and the NDRC will focus on overall coordination and scheduling, aligning industrial, fiscal and taxation and financial policies to create a multiplier effect through policy synergy. At the local level, provinces, cities, districts and counties should establish corresponding working mechanisms, refine plans according to local conditions, and ensure effective implementation of various tasks. Especially at the district and county level, dedicated task forces should be set up to conduct enterprise visits, assess their needs, and recommend financing options. On the banking side, similar task forces will be set up to mobilize internal resources, encourage local-level institutions to lend proactively, and promptly address the financing needs of small and micro enterprises.

Second is the question of "how it will be implemented." Districts and counties, given their close ties to the grassroots level, have the deepest understanding of enterprises and serve as the driving forces and basic units for ensuring the mechanism is effectively implemented. Therefore, the task forces at the district and county level should act as bridges, connecting enterprises and banks. They should organize relevant departments, urban subdistricts, towns and townships as well as banking institutions to conduct visits. Specifically this involves assessing the operating conditions and financing needs of small and micro enterprises, explaining supportive policies, reducing discrepancies between policy intentions and enterprises' perceptions, and referring eligible small and micro enterprises to banks. The banks, in return, will make credit decisions based on market-oriented and legal principles as well as their own credit approval criteria, thereby providing financial support to the enterprises. In summary, the requirements are clear and simple: As long as small and micro enterprises operate in compliance and continuity, have a fixed place of business, are in sound operating condition, have genuine financing needs and intend to use loans for compliant purposes, they can access the funding needed for growth through this mechanism.

Finally, there is the question of "what goals will be achieved." We hope to achieve the following three goals: First, direct access to the grassroots level. Low-cost credit funds should directly reach the grassroots, eliminating any final barriers to benefiting enterprises and the public. Second, efficiency and convenience. Banks should, in principle, decide on credit approval within one month. For eligible enterprises, banks should establish green channels, optimize procedures and expedite processing. Third, reasonable interest rates. By reducing the cost of information gathering, cutting down on intermediary steps and lowering lending costs and additional fees, we aim to reduce the overall financing costs for small and micro enterprises.

That's all for my answer. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Luo Wen. Thank you to the other speakers, and thank you to all the journalists for your participation. This concludes today's press conference. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, Liu Sitong, Chen Xinyan, Wang Xingguang, Lin Liyao, Wang Yanfang, Yan Xiaoqing, Huang Shan, Wang Ziteng, Liu Qiang, Li Huiru, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Lan Fo'an, minister of finance

Mr. Liao Min, vice minister of finance

Mr. Wang Dongwei, vice minister of finance

Ms. Guo Tingting, vice minister of finance

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Oct. 12, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today, we have invited Mr. Lan Fo'an, minister of finance, to brief you on intensifying countercyclical adjustment of fiscal policy to promote high-quality economic development, and to answer your questions. Mr. Liao Min, Mr. Wang Dongwei and Ms. Guo Tingting, all vice ministers of finance, are also present today.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Lan for his introduction. 

Lan Fo'an:

Hello, friends from the media. It is a great pleasure to have the opportunity to speak with you today. First of all, on behalf of the Ministry of Finance (MOF), I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to you for your long-term interest in and support for the finance work. I would like to begin by sharing with you the implementation of the proactive fiscal policy so far this year, and outline our overall plans for intensifying countercyclical adjustment of fiscal policy and promoting high-quality economic development.

Since the beginning of this year, the financial departments have thoroughly implemented the requirements of the Central Economic Work Conference. We have appropriately enhanced the intensity of our proactive fiscal policy and improved its quality and effectiveness. We have used a mix of policy tools such as deficits, special-purpose bonds, ultra-long special treasury bonds, tax cuts, fee reductions and fiscal subsidies. Additionally, we have intensified our fiscal policy, strengthened support for key sectors, and actively prevented and mitigated risks, promoting sustained economic recovery and growth. These efforts can be mainly summarized in the six following areas:

First, we have expanded fiscal spending. The deficit this year is set at 4.06 trillion yuan, an increase of 180 billion yuan over the 2023 budget figure. The quota for local government special-purpose bonds is 3.9 trillion yuan, up by 100 billion yuan from last year. 1 trillion yuan of ultra-long special treasury bonds has been approved for issuance in 2024, and the additional treasury bonds issued in 2023 have been well utilized. Total general public expenditure in the government budget in 2024 are projected to reach 28.55 trillion yuan, maintaining a relatively high spending intensity, thereby providing strong support for high-quality development.

Second, we have optimized tax and fee relief policies. We have fully implemented the structural tax and fee reduction policies, and continued with measures such as additional tax deductions for R&D expenses, additional VAT deductions for advanced manufacturing enterprises, and tax reductions and exemptions for the application of scientific and technological advancements. The preferential tax policies for manufacturing enterprises to upgrade their technologies have also been improved. From January to August, tax reductions, fee cuts and tax rebates related to policies supporting sci-tech innovation and manufacturing development exceeded 1.8 trillion yuan.

Third, we have actively expanded effective domestic demand. We have urged local governments to effectively use the additionally issued treasury bonds to support post-disaster reconstruction and enhance capacity for disaster prevention, mitigation and relief. We have ensured the proper issuance and use of ultra-long special treasury bonds to support major national strategies and build up security capacities in key sectors. We have also actively promoted large-scale equipment upgrading and consumer goods trade-in programs. Additionally, we have continuously enhanced the management of local government special-purpose bonds, appropriately expanding the range of areas and uses to which funds from the sale of such bonds can be channeled, thus supporting local governments in strengthening key sectors that have weaknesses. From January to September this year, 3.6 trillion yuan in new special-purpose bonds was issued, with more than 260 billion yuan used as project capital, supporting over 30,000 projects.

Fourth, we have redoubled our efforts to ensure that, at the primary level, the "Three Guarantees" (guaranteeing basic living needs, payment of salaries and government functioning) are met, and that key sectors are secured. Following the requirement that Party and government institutions must get used to keeping their belts tightened, we have strictly controlled general expenditures, ensuring more funds are available for basic living needs, salaries and government functions as well as key sectors. In 2024, the central government's transfer payments to local governments were set at more than 10 trillion yuan. Specifically, transfer payments for ensuring equal access to basic public services increased by 8.8%, and those for rewards and subsidies to ensure basic funding for county-level governments rose by 8.6%. By doing so, we have provided greater fiscal support for local governments to ensure that, at the primary level, the "Three Guarantees" are met. We have increased support for sci-tech development, all-round rural revitalization and ecological conservation. Specifically, central government expenditures on science and technology were set to increase by 10%, central government subsidies for rural revitalization were set at 177 billion yuan, and 65.1 billion yuan was approved for pollution prevention and control. Moreover, we have refined the fiscal and tax support policies aimed at promoting coordinated regional development, and actively implemented regional development strategies such as the promotion of the coordinated development in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta.

Fifth, we have bolstered support to ensure basic living needs. Since the beginning of this year, the central government has approved 66.7 billion yuan for employment subsidies, supporting local governments in their efforts to ensure employment and vocational skills training for key groups such as college graduates. From January to September, education spending nationwide reached 3 trillion yuan. We have increased national basic pensions for retirees by 3% compared to 2023 and significantly raised the minimum basic old-age benefits for rural and non-working urban residents. We have raised the annual per capita government subsidies for basic public health services to 94 yuan and annual per capita government subsidies for basic health insurance for rural and non-working urban residents to 670 yuan. Going forward, we will further boost expenditures in relevant areas based on the changing demographics as well as the diverse and multifaceted needs of our people, so as to deliver more benefits to them.

Sixth, we have made real efforts to defuse local government debt risks. We have ensured that the primary responsibilities of local governments are fulfilled, implementing tailored risk defusing measures for each province. In addition to the over 2.2 trillion yuan local government debt limit approved by the central government in 2023, an additional 1.2 trillion yuan has been approved for 2024 to support localities, especially high-risk regions, in defusing risks caused by existing debts and settling overdue payments owed to enterprises. Overall, local government debt risks have been mitigated, signaling further progress in risk defusing.

In general, the proactive fiscal policy has delivered remarkable results. It has provided effective support for the implementation of major national strategic tasks and has enabled the economy to achieve an overall stable performance while making progress. Currently, favorable conditions for China's economy remain unchanged, including its robust economic fundamentals, vast market size, strong economic resilience and huge potential. In the meantime, the country's economic performance has also encountered new situations and issues. For example, the growth rate for revenue of the national general public budget is lower than expected. Therefore, the public is concerned whether the country's annual budget target can be met. Here, I can assure you in a responsible manner that China's fiscal system is resilient enough and, by taking comprehensive measures, can achieve a balance between revenue and expenditures, meeting the annual budget target. Please don't worry!

In line with the decisions made at the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Sept. 26, the MOF is expediting the implementation of confirmed policies. Building on this, we will further focus on stabilizing growth, expanding domestic demand and defusing risks. In addition, we will introduce a package of targeted incremental fiscal policy measures mainly in the following areas:

First, more effort will be made to support local governments with dissolving debt, increasing the debt ceiling on a relatively large scale and assisting local governments to alleviate hidden debt, so that they can have greater capacity and fiscal space to promote growth and ensure people's well-being.

Second, special treasury bonds will be issued to support large state-owned commercial banks in replenishing their core tier 1 capital. This aims to enhance the banks' risk resilience and lending capacity to better serve the development of the real economy.

Third, a set of tools will be applied, including local government special-purpose bonds, special funds and taxation policies, in a bid to support the property market in resuming growth and returning to stability.

Fourth, support for key groups will be increased. Before this year's National Day holiday, one-time living subsidies were distributed to people who are facing difficulties. Moving forward, the country will raise the standard of financial aid for college students, so as to enhance the overall capacity of consumption.

I'd also like to add that the fiscal counter-cyclical adjustments are certainly not limited to these four areas. These are just the policies that have already entered the decision-making process. We are currently also exploring other policy tools as well. For instance, the central government has a relatively large capacity for debt financing and raising the deficit.

That concludes my briefing. Next, my colleagues and I are more than happy to take your questions. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Lan. The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking questions.

Xinhua News Agency:

The Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee recently held a meeting and underscored the need to ensure necessary government expenditures. What specific measures will the MOF take in this regard? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

Thank you for the question. Since the beginning of this year, the MOF has earnestly implemented the proactive fiscal policy, appropriately enhanced the intensity of the policy as well as has improved its quality and effectiveness. We have also strengthened guarantees with funding for people's basic livelihood and other key sectors, while maintaining a robust level of government expenditures. As a result, fiscal operations have remained generally stable and orderly, with critical expenditures being better ensured. Here are some statistics for your reference:

From January to September, general public expenditures increased by 2% year on year to 20.18 trillion yuan. Specifically, spending on social security and employment rose by 4.3%; expenditures on education rose by 1.1%; expenditures on agriculture, forestry and water conservancy increased by 6.4%; expenditures on urban and rural communities rose by 6.1%; and housing support spending rose by 2.5%. In contrast, the national general public budget revenue is lower than the target set at the beginning of the year. Thus, we will take multiple measures and comprehensive policies to achieve a balance between revenue and expenditures. As I mentioned earlier, the MOF needs to raise fiscal revenue in accordance with laws and regulations, while also avoiding the collection of tax not prescribed by law and effectively safeguarding the rights and interests of business entities. In the meantime, the MOF will work to maintain a robust level of mandatory government expenditures as well as ensure necessary and sufficient funding for key sectors. It will better leverage the role of fiscal counter-cyclical adjustments and work to accomplish the country's annual economic and social development goals. Our measures in this regard lie in the following three aspects:

First, the MOF will effectively provide additional fiscal resources. The central government has allocated 400 billion yuan from carryover quotas for local government debts. The move aims to provide additional fiscal resources for local governments, supporting them in alleviating existing debt from government investment and settling overdue payments owed to private businesses. The MOF will encourage regions with favorable conditions to put idle assets into good use, to strengthen management of state-owned enterprises' profits and to work toward increasing fiscal revenue. The MOF will also guide local governments with using budget stabilization adjustment funds and other idle funds in accordance with laws and regulations to meet the demands of safeguarding government expenditures.

Second, the MOF will effectively ensure expenditures on key sectors. In line with the directive that Party and government institutions must get used to keeping their belts tightened, the MOF will strictly control general expenditures, directing more funds to address shortcomings, strengthen weaknesses and deliver benefits to the people, so as to ensure that key expenditures will not be reduced. As you can see from the figures mentioned earlier, expenditures on key sectors have all maintained a high level of growth. In addition, the MOF will strengthen support for expenditures on critical sectors such as science and technology as well as education. It will better implement polices related to people's well-being, such as raising the basic old-age benefits for rural and non-working urban residents and the annual per person government subsidies for basic public health services. The MOF will also effectively support key strategies such as all-round rural revitalization, green development and coordinated regional development, ensuring the sound implementation of various policies set by the CPC Central Committee.

Third, the MOF will fully and properly utilize various debt funds. At present, the use of additional treasury bonds is being accelerated, and ultra-long special treasury bonds are also being issued and utilized. In terms of special-purpose bonds, there is a total of 2.3 trillion yuan in special-purpose bond funds available for use from October to December of this year. This total is with the pending issuance quota and funds that have been issued but not yet put to use. The MOF will urge local governments to effectively make good use of various funds from bond issues, expedite project implementation and ensure the timely allocation of funds based on actual needs. By doing so, our aim is to achieve tangible results and to leverage local governments' empowering roles in driving investments. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:

Mr. Lan mentioned that the MOF will increase support for local governments to defuse hidden debt risks. Could you brief us on what measures will be taken and the next policy plans? In addition, there are rumors from the market that there will be fiscal policy quotas of several trillion yuan, and you just mentioned that you will significantly increase the debt ceiling to replace existing hidden debts of local governments. Could you provide more details in this regard? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

Thank you for your questions. Preventing and defusing local government debt is a major issue related to development and security, and the sustainable development of finance. Since 2015, the CPC Central Committee has required the establishment of sound and standard mechanisms for local governments to secure financing, opening wider the "front door" for local governments to raise funds in compliance with the regulations, while barricading the "back door" of borrowing money via methods that are illegal and against regulations, resolutely curbing the scale and expansion of hidden debt, steadily defusing existing debt, and effectively preventing debt risks. The MOF, along with relevant departments, has resolutely implemented and adopted a series of measures, including issuing local government bonds to replace outstanding debt, establishing closed-loop management for local government debt, promoting Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong, where debt risks are relatively low, to achieve zero hidden debt, carrying out pilot debt relief projects in counties and districts with relatively high debt risks, and jointly preventing and defusing hidden debt risks of financing platforms, and strengthening the management of government investment projects with relevant departments. Party committees and governments at all levels have conscientiously assumed their principal responsibility, established a multi-departmental collaborative mechanism, coordinated the management of debts and the prevention and relief of debt risks, actively paid back debts by arranging fiscal funds and using assets and resources, and steadily defused government debt risks, making important progress.

Starting from the second half of 2022, debt risks and hidden dangers have emerged in some places due to various factors. In July 2023, a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee stated that we should effectively guard against and defuse local debt risks, and formulate and implement a package of debt-clearing plans. The State Council established a work coordination mechanism to guide provinces to formulate specific debt-clearing plans. Relevant departments, Party committees and governments at all levels have stepped up their efforts and taken more pragmatic measures. The MOF set up a bond issuance quota of over 2.2 trillion yuan in 2023 to support localities and particularly high-risk areas, in addressing existing debt risks and clearing arrears owed to enterprises, alleviating the overall local government debt risks. Outstanding hidden debt registered on the government platform nationwide dropped 50% compared to five years ago at the end of 2023, and the risks are controllable.

Since 2024, after fulfilling relevant procedures, the MOF has arranged an additional 1.2 trillion yuan of quota to support local governments in clearing existing hidden debts and settling arrears to enterprises. In order to ease the pressure on local governments to defuse risks caused by debts, in addition to continuing to arrange a certain amount of quota in the new special bond limit each year to support the relief of existing government investment project debts, we planned to substantially raise the local government debt ceiling in one lump sum to pave the way for the replacement of existing hidden local debts, increase support for local governments to defuse debt risks. The relevant policies will be explained in detail to the public after going through the statutory procedures. It should be emphasized that this policy, which is about to be implemented, is the most powerful measure to support debt relief in recent years. This is undoubtedly a timely policy, and will greatly ease the burden on localities to defuse debt risks, release more resources for economic development, boost the confidence of business entities, and ensure that, at the primary level, basic living needs are met, salaries are paid, and governments function smoothly.

Next, the MOF will work with relevant departments to ensure that primary responsibilities of local governments in local debt clearing are fulfilled, guide local governments to steadily defuse hidden debt risks, and promote the transformation of financing platforms. At the same time, we will strictly investigate and hold to account those who violate laws and regulations on debt issuance and rectify them within a time limit. Any issuance of debt that is illegal or against regulations will be dealt with immediately, and those responsible will be held accountable to resolutely control the risk of hidden debt expansion.

As for the specific amount of policy arrangements you mentioned, we will make it public in a timely manner after going through the statutory procedures. Thank you.

TASS:

My question is about the real estate market. What are the considerations of fiscal policy measures in supporting the development of the sector? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

I would like to invite Mr. Liao to answer your question.

Liao Min:

Thank you for your question. Real estate is an issue of public concern. The MOF has worked in alignment with relevant departments to focus on promoting a balance between supply and demand in the real estate market, continuously optimizing fiscal and tax policies, promoting China's property market to return to a stable and healthy trajectory.

I will brief you on the policies that have been introduced in three areas: the demand side, the supply side and risk mitigation.

On the demand side, we are mainly working to support people's diverse housing needs and reduce housing costs. This includes the introduction of the phased personal income tax refund policy for "selling old and buying new" housing exchanges. For example, if the existing house is sold for 2 million yuan and the original value was 1 million yuan, the personal income tax payable is about 200,000 yuan, but if you sell it and then purchase another house worth more than 2 million yuan within one year, the personal income tax of 200,000 yuan already paid can be fully refunded. For another example, we have cooperated with relevant departments to cut the loan rates of individual housing provident fund by 0.25 percentage point. It is projected that this policy can save about 20 billion yuan in provident fund personal loan interest payments every year. These two policies have played an important role in reducing the financial burden on homebuyers and increasing housing demand.

On the supply side, we primarily support optimizing the provision of government-subsidized housing as well as securing people's basic livelihoods. Over the past three years, the central government has allocated 212.4 billion yuan in subsidies for government-subsidized housing projects and 280 billion yuan in central government budgetary investments. It has also coordinated local government special bonds to support the development of 6.66 million units of various types of government-subsidized housing that are aimed at meeting the basic housing needs of middle- and low-income urban groups, new urban migrants and young people. Additionally, we have supported the renovation of 160,000 old urban residential compounds, benefiting 27.25 million households, and have helped refurbished 4.2 million housing units in run-down urban areas, and urban villages and other dilapidated urban houses. This has played a crucial role in stabilizing investments, promoting consumption and improving people's livelihoods.

In terms of defusing risks caused by available housing, the MOF has collaborated in releasing the special loan policy for ensuring that overdue housing projects were completed, providing interest subsidies to 350-billion-yuan special loans. Since last year, we have pre-allocated 6.2 billion yuan in interest subsidies to safeguard the legitimate rights of homebuyers. We have also worked to enhance efforts to ensure the timely delivery of homes, to reduce available commodity housing, to leverage idle land and to prevent and mitigate risks in the real estate market, keeping expectations stable.

Regarding our next steps, the third measure that Mr. Lan just mentioned pertains to real estate policy. Moving forward, we will adhere to strictly controlling increase in new projects, optimizing available stock and improving quality. We will actively research and introduce policies that contribute to the stable development of the real estate market. Here, I'd like to share with you all three main considerations that the MOF has in mind:

First, we will allow the use of special bonds with land reserves. This is mainly due to the relatively large amount of idle, undeveloped land across the country. We will support local governments in using special bonds to acquire qualifying idle land reserves. Regions with pressing needs can also use these bonds for new land reserve projects. This policy can adjust the supply-and-demand balance within the land market, reduce idle land, better regulate and control land supply as well as ease liquidity and debt pressures on local governments and real estate companies.

Second, we will support the purchase of available housing to optimize the supply of government-subsidized housing. Considering that there is currently large completed yet unsold housing inventory, we will implement two supporting measures: One is to utilize special bonds to purchase available commercial housing that will be used as government-subsidized housing. The other is to continue using government-subsidized housing subsidy funds. Previously, these funds were primarily used to support new government-subsidized housing projects. Now, we are adjusting the focus by reducing the scale of new construction and supporting local governments in gathering government-subsidized housing sources through the absorption of available homes. These two measures will help reduce the unsold commercial housing inventory, balance supply and demand in the real estate market, and optimize the supply of government-subsidized housing to meet the needs of middle- and low-income groups.

Third, we will promptly optimize and improve relevant tax policies. According to the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, we will clarify policies on value-added taxes and land appreciation taxes in line with the scrapping of standards for ordinary and non-ordinary housing. Moving forward, we will work out more policies to enhance support, adjust and optimize tax, and promote the stable and healthy development of the real estate market.

Promoting the stable development of the real estate market is a systematic project that requires the concerted efforts of various policies. In policy implementation, we will continue to strengthen synchronization between fiscal policy and other policies, enhance central-local coordination, and ensure the alignment between new and old policies. By employing a coordinated approach, we will unwaveringly work to stabilize the real estate market and curb further declines.

Thank you all.

National Business Daily:

We've noticed that some localities are facing increased pressure to ensure the "Three Guarantees" (guaranteeing basic living needs, payment of salaries and government functioning). Mr. Lan also mentioned the "Three Guarantees" earlier and they're something that people pay close attention to. What measures has the MOF taken this year to support local governments to ensure that, at the primary level, the "Three Guarantees" are met?"

Lan Fo'an:

Thank you for your question. Ensuring basic welfare, wages and government functioning, referred to as the "Three Guarantees," is a basic requirement for safeguarding the fundamental interests of the people and is also a core function of fiscal policy. In 2024, the MOF has continued to improve the management system for the "Three Guarantees," covering budget formulation, budget execution, dynamic monitoring and emergency response, and ensuring the stable operation of the "Three Guarantees" at the primary level. We have mainly taken the following four measures: First, we are strengthening fiscal support for the "Three Guarantees" at the primary level. In 2024, the central government has planned to allocate more than 10 trillion yuan in budgets for transfer payments to local governments and has urged local authorities to direct these funds to the primary level, prioritizing and fully funding budgets for the "Three Guarantees." Here, the term "primary" mainly refers to the county level. Second, we are establishing and improving work mechanisms. We follow the principle of "county-level responsibility, city-level assistance (as a safety net), provincial-level safety net and central-level incentives," ensuring that responsibilities are fulfilled at every level and that detailed emergency response plans for risks related to the "Three Guarantees" are in place. Third, we are enhancing treasury fund security. We have strengthened treasury management in financially struggling counties to ensure that funds for the "Three Guarantees" are available when needed. Fourth, we are strengthening monitoring of local fiscal operations. Leveraging an integrated budget management system, we now have real-time monitoring of all budget units and primary-level fiscal operations nationwide. We can clearly see how much treasury funds are available and track progress with the "Three Guarantees." We issue monthly risk alerts to local governments and urge them to take timely action when addressing any issues.

Overall, the "Three Guarantees" at the primary level are generally stable, although some areas are facing increasing fiscal pressures. Based on national estimates of financial resources at the primary level, the foundation for supporting the "Three Guarantees" is secure. For example, in 2023, around 50% of available local fiscal resources were allocated to the "Three Guarantees." When factoring in other mandatory expenditures, this figure rises to around 80%. The increased pressure in some regions is largely due to slower fiscal revenue growth, declining land transfer income, and the burden of local government debt.

Looking ahead, the MOF will continue to take practical and effective measures, establish a "Three Guarantees" checklist, and build a long-term mechanism to secure the bottom line at the primary level. The following five specific measures will be implemented:

First, clarifying responsibilities. Local Party committees and governments at all levels are the primary entities responsible for ensuring the "Three Guarantees" in their areas and they should regularly review and improve their support mechanisms. Functional departments are accountable for implementing policies within their fields and will work closely with financial departments to coordinate their efforts.

Second, boosting local financial resources. The central government will continue to increase general transfer payments to local governments through the annual budget. As mentioned earlier, this year, 400 billion yuan in debt limits were allocated to local governments to supplement their comprehensive financial resources, which is important for ensuring the "Three Guarantees." We will also streamline and standardize special transfer payments, optimize their structure, increase the share of general transfer payments, expand local tax bases, and moderately increase local tax management authority to enhance local financial autonomy.

Third, improving fund allocation. We will closely monitor local revenue, expenditure and cash balances. For areas facing tight cash flow, the central government will provide support by advancing fund allocations. Provincial financial departments will be urged to strengthen monitoring and ensure sufficient funds at the primary level, prioritizing the meeting of basic living needs, payment of salaries, and smooth functioning of governments.

Fourth, easing debt pressure. We will intensify efforts to restructure the hidden debt of local governments. As previously mentioned, we plan to implement a sizable debt limit, details of which will be released to the public once the legal procedures are completed. Additionally, we will allocate part of the annual local government special bond quota to supplement government funds, helping local governments manage debt risks.

Fifth, enhancing dynamic monitoring. We will establish an information-driven, intelligent monitoring system that covers the entire process of the "Three Guarantees." This system will track potential risks in real time, issue early warnings, and ensure problems are detected and addressed promptly. Thank you.

Reuters:

How can China's proactive fiscal policy be more effective in boosting consumption and preventing deflationary risks? Additionally, is there an estimate for the scale of this fiscal policy package? And how much room is there for the central government to leverage its finances?

Lan Fo'an:

Thank you for your questions. This year, we have focused more on the counter-cyclical role of proactive fiscal policy, maintaining strong fiscal spending, and continuously working to stimulate consumption and expand effective demand, especially in areas like boosting domestic demand, stimulate consumption and improving people's livelihoods. We have been actively working in three main areas:

First, increasing household income through a range of measures. We have steadily raised social security levels. In 2024, the minimum standard for basic pensions for urban and rural residents has been further increased, which was the largest increase in history. Pension levels for retirees have also been raised by around 3%, and per capita government subsidies for urban and rural residents' health insurance have been significantly increased. In addition to improving the tiered social assistance system, we distributed one-time living allowances before the National Day holiday to disadvantaged groups and individuals, such as people in extreme difficulties and orphans, to boost their incomes and enhance their capacity and willingness to spend.

Second, expanding government investment through multiple channels. As mentioned earlier, the issuance of 1 trillion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds, an additional 3.9 trillion yuan quota for local government special bonds, and 700 billion yuan in central government budget investment in 2024, combined with the additional government bonds issued in 2023, the total funds available for increasing government investment have significantly increased compared to last year, driving effective investment and expanding domestic demand.

Third, implementing the policy of large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins. We have allocated around 300 billion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds, with local governments beginning to roll out specific operational measures since late August and early September. These measures focus on supporting key sectors, particularly equipment upgrades, enhancing local capacity to replace old consumer goods with new ones, driving investment growth, unlocking consumption potential and promoting industrial development.

Looking ahead, the MOF will continue to focus on targeted, precise policies. We will optimize fundamental policy mechanisms, improve residents' income expectations, and stimulate consumption potential. We will also make better use of special funds and interest subsidies on loans, improve the trade and circulation system, and enhance the consumption environment. Additionally, we will leverage government bonds to drive effective investment and expand domestic demand.

As for your second question regarding the central government's potential for fiscal leverage, I mentioned earlier that the central government has considerable room to increase debt and raise the deficit. Moving forward, we will follow the decisions of the CPC Central Committee, balance development and security, and take into account such factors as the economic situation, macroeconomic needs and the fiscal position. We will use debt policy tools appropriately to promote sustained economic development. Thank you.

Yicai:

Recently, the MOF has been studying the introduction of new measures for managing special bonds. Could you provide an update on the issuance and use of special bonds since the beginning of this year? What steps will be taken to strengthen management going forward? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

Thank you. I would like to invite Mr. Wang to answer this question.

Wang Dongwei:

Thank you for your question. In recent years, the MOF, along with relevant departments, has established and improved policies and systems for managing special bonds. We've guided local governments to enhance the quality of special bond projects. These bonds have played a crucial role in driving effective investment and stabilizing the macroeconomy. Since 2020, we've allocated a total of 18.7 trillion yuan for new special bonds, supporting about 130,000 government investment projects. As Mr. Lan mentioned earlier, in 2024, we have allocated 3.9 trillion yuan for new special bonds, the largest amount ever.

We've focused on leveraging government investment more effectively, and carefully organizing the allocation, issuance and use of special bonds. We've increased support for major economically developed provinces to use funds raised from the sale of special bonds. These funds will be weighed toward regions where projects are well-prepared and investments are more effective. We've also reasonably allocated special bond quotas to other regions to complete ongoing projects and implement national strategic initiatives. We've guided local governments to accelerate bond issuance and use, strengthening coordination and providing updates every 10 days. As of late September, 3.6 trillion yuan in new special bonds had been issued nationwide, 92.5% of the annual quota.

Building on this work, we aim to expand the scope of the use of special bonds, improve management mechanisms, maintain government investment intensity and pace, reasonably reduce financing costs, and promote high-quality development. Specifically, there are three key areas:

First, expanding the scope. This involves three main aspects. First, we will research and improve the management of lists of investments using funds from the sale of special bonds, increasing areas where funds can be used as project capital to maximize their usage. Second, we will make good use of special bonds to support the acquisition of existing commercial housing for affordable housing, as Mr. Lan and Mr. Liao mentioned, to support healthy real estate market development. Third, we will reasonably support forward-looking, and strategic emerging industry infrastructure to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces.

Second, strengthening mechanisms. We're studying ways to improve project management, creating a "green channel" for ongoing projects to ensure smooth transitions from planning to implementation. This will accelerate the issuance and use of special bonds, speed up project construction, and quickly generate tangible results. The goal is to effectively leverage government investment to guide and drive economic growth.

Third, tightening management. This involves three main aspects: First, we will improve the full lifecycle management of special bonds from borrowing to repayment, strengthen oversight of bond fund expenditures, and ensure project departments and units fulfill their responsibilities. Second, we will improve the management of asset account books for special bond projects, managing project assets by category to ensure a balance between government debt and project assets. Third, we will explore early repayments of special bonds, studying the establishment of a debt service reserve system to secure repayment sources. Thank you.

The Beijing News:

I have a question regarding students' financial aid policies. We've noticed that the MOF is currently studying ways to improve the financial aid system for college students, which is an important part of incremental policies. We'd like to know what new policies and measures are planned for the near future. Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

I would like to invite Mr. Guo to answer this question.

Guo Tingting:

Thank you for your question. In recent years, the MOF, along with the Ministry of Education and other relevant departments, has continuously improved the student financial aid system covering all educational stages. We've steadily increased investment and gradually raised assistance standards to support students in focusing on their studies and personal development. Currently, China has established a comprehensive aid system led by the government with active participation from schools and the public. This system mainly includes state scholarships and grants, government-subsidized student loans, tuition reductions, living allowances and work-study programs. In 2023, government investment reached 93.2 billion yuan nationwide, benefiting over 31 million college students. Through policies such as loan interest subsidies, we supported banks in issuing 70 billion yuan in government-subsidized student loans.

As Mr. Lan mentioned earlier, in the next step, we will work with relevant departments to adjust and improve student financial aid policies in higher education in two phases, focusing on rewarding excellence and assisting those in need. In the first phase, we will introduce the following policies and measures in 2024:

First, the number of National Scholarship recipients will double. For undergraduate and junior college students, the number will increase from 60,000 to 120,000 per year. For master's students, it will rise from 35,000 to 70,000 annually, and for doctoral students, from 10,000 to 20,000 per year.

Second, scholarship funding standards for undergraduate and junior college students will be raised. The National Scholarship will rise from 8,000 yuan to 10,000 yuan per student annually, while the National Encouragement Scholarship will increase from 5,000 yuan to 6,000 yuan per student each year.

Third, the National Grant for undergraduate and junior college students will be raised. Starting in fall 2024, the average subsidy will increase from 3,300 yuan to 3,700 yuan per student annually.

Fourth, we will enhance support for national student loans. Loan amounts will increase, with the maximum loan for undergraduate and junior college students rising from 16,000 yuan to 20,000 yuan per student annually, and for graduate students from 20,000 yuan to 25,000 yuan. Additionally, interest rates will be lowered, set at 70 basis points below the market quotation rate for loans of the same category during the same period.

In the second phase, we will raise the standards for graduate academic scholarships in 2025. Additionally, the subsidy standards for the National Grant Program for regular high school students and secondary vocational school students will be increased, along with an expansion of coverage.

Moving forward, we'll collaborate with relevant departments to promptly introduce related policies and ensure their effective implementation. We'll make sure that funds are distributed to students in a timely manner, allowing the policies to take effect quickly and enabling students to benefit as soon as possible. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

In 2024, China issued 1 trillion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds to fund critical national strategies and enhance security capabilities in key areas. How will the funds from these ultra-long special treasury bonds be effectively managed and utilized? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

I would like to invite Mr. Wang to answer this question.

Wang Dongwei:

Thank you for your question. Issuing ultra-long special treasury bonds to support critical national strategies and enhance security capabilities in key areas is an important fiscal policy this year. With a focus on effective implementation, the MOF promptly established a dedicated task force to ensure smooth coordination and orderly progress. First, we worked to ensure effective fundraising. By considering project timelines and bond market demand, we strategically designed bond types and established a reasonable issuance pace to meet project requirements, while avoiding idle funds and reducing costs. As of September's end, 752 billion yuan of ultra-long special treasury bonds had been issued, with rates remaining generally stable. Second, we accelerated fund allocation, promptly allocating budgets and disbursing funds based on project lists. Third, we strengthened fund oversight. Recently, the MOF issued interim measures for supervising these funds, listing specific requirements such as establishing a full life-cycle management system, implementing separate account management, setting up a debt repayment reserve fund, and strengthening performance management. We will adopt more rigorous and more concrete measures to ensure that the bonds are effectively managed and utilized.

Moving forward, we'll complete the issuance of 1 trillion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds as scheduled, promptly allocating budgets and disbursing funds. We'll strictly enforce fund supervision by establishing a coordinated oversight mechanism with industry regulators and local finance departments. We'll enhance tracking and monitoring, prohibit misappropriation of funds, and promptly address any violations, ensuring that these funds are used safely, properly and efficiently. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Please continue to ask questions. I see many more hands raised, but due to time constraints, we will take the last two questions.

CCTV:

As we just heard, Mr. Lan mentioned the plan to issue special treasury bonds to supplement the core Tier 1 capital of large state-owned commercial banks. Could you please explain the specific policy considerations behind this decision, and how will it be implemented going forward? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

I'd like to invite Mr. Liao to answer your questions.

Liao Min:

Thank you for your questions. Large state-owned commercial banks act as the main force to serve the real economy and the ballast to ensure financial stability. Currently, the six large state-owned commercial banks — Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Bank of Communications, and Postal Savings Bank of China — are operating steadily overall, with stable asset quality and sufficient provisions. Their key indicators are all within a "healthy range" according to international best practices. Notably, owners' equity has continued to grow, reaching 15.1 trillion yuan by the end of June 2024, a 2.9% increase from the beginning of the year. Capital strength is relatively robust, with an average core Tier 1 capital adequacy ratio of 12.3% as of the end of June 2024.

Large state-owned commercial banks, along with other financial institutions, bear the critical responsibility of supporting high-quality economic development and implementing key tasks concerning technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance. Capital is the lifeblood of commercial banks' sustainable operations and is fundamental to promoting the growth of the real economy, facilitating economic restructuring, and guarding against various risks. As we know, in recent years, some small and medium-sized local banks have replenished their capital. Under current circumstances, we believe it's necessary to support large state-owned commercial banks in further increasing their core Tier 1 capital through appropriate channels. This will not only improve banks' capacity for prudent management but also amplify the leverage effect of capital, boosting lending capacity and enabling greater support to the real economy. This will offer stronger backing for the sustained recovery of the macroeconomy and help bolster market confidence.

Authorized by the State Council, the MOF is responsible for the unified performance of the function of state-owned financial capital investors, which includes establishing mechanisms for capital replenishment and dynamic adjustment for state-owned financial institutions. The MOF, adhering to the principles of marketization and the rule of law as well as the approach of "coordinated advancement, phased implementation and tailored strategies," will actively raise funds through channels, such as issuing special treasury bonds, to prudently and orderly support large state-owned commercial banks in further increasing their core tier-1 capital. We believe that through this initiative, the operating and profit-making capabilities of large state-owned commercial banks will be enhanced, thereby promoting the steady and sustained development of the entire national economy.

I'd like to inform you all of the most recent developments: the initiative has been launched. The MOF, in conjunction with relevant financial regulatory authorities, has established an inter-departmental working mechanism to efficiently assist large state-owned commercial banks in expediting the completion of related tasks. We are now awaiting the submission of specific capital replenishment plans from each bank, and all work is progressing in an orderly manner. Furthermore, I'd like to clarify that large state-owned commercial banks, as listed banks, will disclose their specific capital replenishment plans promptly and in compliance with relevant regulations. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

The last question.

China Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made important arrangements for deepening the reform of the fiscal and tax systems. Could you please tell us what specific measures the Ministry of Finance will introduce next? Thank you.

Lan Fo'an:

Thank you for your question. The question of reform is of significant concern to everyone, especially after the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made important arrangements for deepening the reform of the fiscal and tax systems. The session clearly outlined reform requirements such as "improving the budget system," "making taxation systems more conducive to high-quality development, social fairness and the building of a unified market," "establishing a fiscal relationship between the central and local governments that features well-defined powers and responsibilities, and the appropriate allocation of resources, with an optimum balance between regions" and "improving the systems for managing government debt." The Ministry of Finance is diligently studying the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, considering the effective implementation of reform tasks as a top priority in the present and future periods and is steadily advancing forward. Throughout the reform's implementation, we will focus on properly handling the relationships between the government and the market, the central and local governments, efficiency and fairness, overall and local interests, and long-term and current considerations. We strive to transform the strategic deployment of comprehensively deepening reform into a powerful force for advancing China's modernization. Specifically, there are three points:

First, we will promptly introduce the implementation plan for reform. We will adhere to problem-oriented and goal-oriented approaches, ensuring that the accelerated advancement of reforms is integrated with our efforts to strengthen scientific management of public finances. We will actively respond to public and grassroots concerns, elaborating on specific task lists for each reform task outlined in the plenary session and clearly defining timelines and priorities. We have preliminarily developed an implementation plan for deepening the fiscal and tax system reform, which will serve as the "blueprint" for future reforms.

Second, we will accelerate the implementation of reform measures. We adhere to a phased and step-by-step approach to steadily promote reforms, planning as a whole deadlines for the implementation of various reform measures. We plan to roll out this and next year a batch of mature and tangible reform measures, especially fundamental institutional reforms that are crucial for top-level design. These include improving the budget system, refining the fiscal transfer payment system and establishing a government debt management system with Chinese characteristics that aligns with high-quality development. This will gradually establish a reform outcome system where fundamental institutional reforms take the lead, followed by successive measures in specific areas.

Third, we will emphasize the combination of top-level design and grassroots exploration. Building upon clear reform principles and directions, we encourage and support relevant parties to innovate reforms based on local conditions. We have organized pilot projects for zero-based budgeting reform in central departments and plan to initiate trials for scientific fiscal management in certain regions. We will tailor reform pilots' content based on the characteristics of different regions and departments. With full respect to a pioneering spirit, we'll summarize reform experiences, replicate and promote them in a timely manner so as to intensify reforms in line with the times.

Next, the MOF will continue to implement reforms with relentless perseverance to actively and steadily form a favorable pattern where fiscal macro-control is more targeted, the budget system is more sound, the tax system is more optimized, the fiscal system is more perfected and fiscal development is more sustainable. Efforts will be made to provide a more solid fiscal guarantee for building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects through a Chinese path to modernization.

Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Minister Lan, thank you to all of the presenters and thank you to all friends from the media for your participation. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Yuan Fang, Zhu Bochen, Wang Qian, Yan Bin, Mi Xingang, Wang Yanfang, Guo Yiming, Xiang Bin, Liu Caiyi, Wang Wei, Chen Xinyan, Huang Shan, Li Huiru, Zhang Rui, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Huang Runqiu, minister of ecology and environment

Mr. Zhao Yingmin, vice minister of ecology and environment

Ms. Guo Fang, vice minister of ecology and environment

Mr. Dong Baotong, vice minister of ecology and environment and administrator of the National Nuclear Safety Administration

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 25, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Huang Runqiu, minister of ecology and environment, to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Zhao Yingmin, vice minister of ecology and environment; Ms. Guo Fang, vice minister of ecology and environment; and Mr. Dong Baotong, vice minister of ecology and environment and administrator of the National Nuclear Safety Administration. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Huang Runqiu for his introduction.

Huang Runqiu:

Thank you. Good morning, everyone. I am delighted to meet with you again today. First of all, on behalf of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your long-standing concern, participation and support for our ecological and environmental protection efforts.

High-quality development is the top priority in the new era and in building a modern socialist country in all respects. In recent years, under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization, the MEE has been committed to driving high-quality development with high-standard protection, and making concerted efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development and boost economic growth. The outcomes of our coordinated approach to development and protection have continually improved.

We have made persistent efforts in the fight against pollution, leading to marked improvements in our ecological environment. We have promoted accurate, scientific, law-based and systematic pollution control s, and advanced continued efforts to keep the skies blue, waters clear and lands clean. As a result, the quality of the ecological environment has improved significantly, with public satisfaction rising from under 80% in 2017 to over 91% in 2023. Many of you have likely witnessed these improvements firsthand. The skies are becoming clearer. Last year, the average PM2.5 concentration in major cities nationwide was 30 micrograms per cubic meter, a 54% reduction compared to 10 years ago, while the number of heavily polluted days decreased by 83%. For four consecutive years, the proportion of days with good air quality has exceeded 86%. In Beijing, the improvement is even more remarkable; terms like "APEC blue," "military parade blue" and "Winter Olympics blue" are now being replaced by a more enduring "Beijing blue." Our waters are also becoming cleaner. Last year, the proportion of surface water classed as excellent and good quality reached 89.4%, an increase of 25.3 percentage points compared to 10 years ago. The Yangtze River's main stem has maintained Class II water quality for four consecutive years, and the Yellow River's for two years. Coastal water quality has reached an all-time high, with 85% of nearshore waters classified as excellent. Moreover, our ecosystems are becoming more beautiful. Last year, the national forest coverage rate reached 24.02%, with about a quarter of the world's new green areas since the beginning of this century having been created in China. We have designated 572 ecological civilization demonstration zones and 240 bases for innovative practices in line with the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," making urban and rural environments more livable.

We have been actively advancing sustainable development through concerted efforts to reduce pollution and carbon emissions. On one hand, we have continuously optimized and adjusted the industrial structure, cumulatively phasing out 1 billion metric tons of outdated coal capacity, 300 million metric tons of steel capacity, and 400 million metric tons of cement capacity. Over 95% of coal-fired power plants and 45% of crude steel capacity have undergone ultra-low emission upgrades, creating the world's largest clean power and clean steel production systems. On the other hand, we have accelerated the clean and efficient use of energy, reducing the proportion of coal in primary energy consumption from 67.4% a decade ago to 55.3% last year. The number of coal-fired boilers has dropped from nearly 500,000 to fewer than 100,000. Additionally, we have completed clean heating and coal management upgrades for 39 million households in northern China. In the green transformation of transportation, over the past decade, more than 40 million high-emission vehicles have been retired, and the share of new energy buses has increased from less than 20% to over 80%. Clean transportation of bulk goods has also seen steady improvement.

We have resolutely safeguarded the ecological foundation of high-quality development, making the path to building a Beautiful China more secure. Over 30% of China's land is now designated as ecological protection zones. A nature reserve system, with national parks as the core, has been established, providing effective protection for 90% of terrestrial ecosystem types and 74% of key national wildlife species. Biodiversity continues to recover, we have achieved "zero import" of solid waste, and various environmental emergencies have been properly managed. Since 2017, we have completed environmental improvements in 185,000 villages nationwide, designated protection zones for 24,000 drinking water sources at the township level and above, maintained stable nuclear and radiation safety conditions, and further strengthened nuclear safety defenses.

We have advanced comprehensive reforms in ecological civilization, continually enhancing the institutional framework for green, low-carbon, high-quality development. The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has implemented major initiatives such as central government environmental inspections. The philosophy of lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets and the principle of prioritizing ecology and green development have gained wider acceptance. We are building a modern environmental governance system, establishing a nationwide ecological zoning control framework, achieving full coverage of pollutant discharge permits for fixed pollution sources, implementing a major national scientific project for comprehensive environmental management in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, and transitioning monitoring systems to digital platforms. We have also established the world's largest carbon emissions trading market, significantly improving our ecological and environmental governance capacity. Furthermore, China has demonstrated its responsibility as a major global player by making solemn commitments to achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, and has played a key role in promoting the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. As such, China has become an important participant, contributor and leader in global environmental governance and sustainable development.

General Secretary Xi Jinping has underscored that the building of the ecological civilization is still at a critical period where we face multiple pressures and have a lot of difficulties to overcome. Moving forward, the MEE will earnestly implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. The MEE will fully execute the decisions made at the national conference on ecological and environmental protection and advance reforms in the institutional arrangements related to ecological civilization. By so doing, the MEE aims to promote sustained and fundamental improvements to the ecological environment and build a beautiful China where humanity and nature coexist harmoniously.

That concludes my briefing. Next, my colleagues and I will take your questions. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Huang. The floor is now open for questions. Please raise your hand and state the news outlet you represent before asking your questions.

CCTV:

In 2023, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council issued guidelines to comprehensively promote the development of a "Beautiful China," making systemic arrangements on the Beautiful China initiative. My question is for Mr. Huang: How would you describe a "Beautiful China?" What actions have been taken by the MEE to support this initiative? What are the plans moving forward? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

Thank you for your questions. The first question is quite thought-provoking. Since ancient times, numerous poems, songs and paintings made by personages have depicted the magnificent landscapes of our country. For example, Tang Dynasty (618-907) poet Du Fu once wrote: "Spring scenery greets the eye; sweet blooms perfume the air." There is also the renowned painting "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains" by Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) painter Huang Gongwang. Moreover, the well-known contemporary writer Lao She has also written: "I don't know what paradise looks like, but judging from my life experience, autumn in Beiping (the previous name of Beijing) is paradise." What beautiful words!

General Secretary Xi Jinping has on various occasions used such beautiful and vivid words as "blue sky, white clouds, twinkling stars," "clear water, green shore, fish flying in the shallow bottom," "birdsong, flowers, idyllic scenery," and "turquoise sea, blue sky, clean beaches" to paint for us a new picture of "Beautiful China" characterized by the harmonious coexistence between human beings and nature. The development of a "Beautiful China" is not only a matter of great significance for the country that General Secretary Xi Jinping bears in mind, but is also a shared aspiration of the Chinese people. As the minister of ecology and environment, I am committed, along with my colleagues, to making this vision the guiding goal of our work.

In my view, the Beautiful China initiative encompasses at least three aspects, which can be vividly summarized as "outer charm," "inner beauty" and "great temperament." "Outer charm" refers to the beauty of the ecological environment, which is the most significant, prominent and fundamental indicator of the initiative. This includes blue skies, lucid landscapes, clear waters and beautiful urban and rural living environments. "Inner beauty" indicates the high quality of development, which is the intrinsic condition of the initiative. Specifically, we will promote widespread adoption of green and low-carbon production and lifestyles, ensuring that new quality productive forces and eco-friendly production forces become main growth drivers. "Great temperament" represents well-conceived institutional arrangements, which are also key enablers of the initiative. This means basically modernizing the environmental governance system and capability. 

The goal set by the CPC Central Committee is to essentially accomplish the building of a "Beautiful China" by 2035. Therefore, the current year and the upcoming decade represent a critical period for comprehensively advancing this initiative. The MEE will effectively shoulder its responsibility in leading the initiative and will continuously promote efforts in this regard, focusing on specific measures in the following four aspects. First, the MEE will establish a three-tiered implementation system. The first two tiers refer to the guidelines to comprehensively promote the development of a "Beautiful China" already published by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, along with the upcoming implementation guidelines for pilot zones dedicated to building a "Beautiful China." The third tier encompasses a total of 24 action plans tailored to the needs of specific sectors, such as "beautiful cities," "beautiful countryside," green finance, green transportation and scientific and technological support, amongst others. These documents are being introduced with the support of related government bodies. Second, the MEE will launch a group of landmark reform achievements. It will issue guidelines on strengthening district-specific management of the ecological environment as well as deepen institutional reforms related to the monitoring, supervision and law enforcement of ecological environment organs below the provincial level. It will also steadily expand the coverage of the country's carbon trading market to include more sectors, as well as study and formulate work regulations for the supervision of ecological environment protection. Third, the MEE will develop a series of demonstrative practice models. It has already introduced 56 cases focused on the development of beautiful lakes and rivers, as well as 20 cases concerning beautiful bay areas. The MEE will continue to develop innovative pilot projects for "zero waste" and low-carbon cities, and explore effective approaches to realize the value of ecological products. Last but not least, the MEE will implement a package of supportive measures. It will establish an evaluation and assessment system on the development effectiveness of the Beautiful China initiative, and make good use of the rule of law, the market, science and technology as well as related policies.

Moving forward, the MEE will remain focused on the goal of building a "Beautiful China," and systematically advance this initiative in a phased, step-by-step and well-planned manner. We will ensure that efforts are made to tackle key challenges during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), consolidate and expand progress during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030) and achieve overall improvement during the 16th Five-Year Plan period (2031-2035). In the meantime, the MEE will get everyone to participate in the building of a "Beautiful China," intensify efforts to promote the ecological civilization and guide the public to adopt a green and low-carbon lifestyle. By doing so, we will pool greater strength to build a "Beautiful China" and jointly usher in a new chapter for all to prosper individually and collectively. 

Thank you.

China Youth Daily:

As we understand, the MEE in recent years has made certain gains in the fight to keep our skies blue. Blue skies, which were notable enough to be posted on social media a few years ago, have now become a regular expectation. What are the new difficulties and priorities with efforts to prevent and control air pollution currently? What will be the focus next? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

Mr. Zhao will take your questions.

Zhao Yingmin:

Thank you for your questions. In recent years, progress in the fight to keep our skies blue has been apparent to all. As Mr. Huang mentioned earlier, China has seen a significant drop in PM2.5 levels over the past decade, making it the fastest country in the world to improve air quality. Not only have the number of blue-sky days increased, but their quality has also improved. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) has even hailed Beijing's progress in air quality improvement as "Beijing Miracle." Nowadays, red walls, yellow glazed roof tiles and blue skies have become a common element in the photo albums of both citizens and tourists.

According to the Opinions on Comprehensively Promoting the Construction of a Beautiful China, by 2035, the national PM2.5 concentration should be reduced to below 25 micrograms per cubic meter. This means that the annual average concentration in 339 cities across the country needs to reach the level of Beijing from June to September. There are significant challenges to achieving this goal. In the past, we vigorously eliminated backward production capacity and promoted clean heating in northern China, and comprehensively cracked down on illegal pollution discharges, achieving positive results. However, the emission reduction benefits from these measures have significantly decreased, and our progress on atmospheric pollution control has entered the most difficult stage. In the future, we must rely more on the green and low-carbon transformation of industry, energy and transportation structures, making concerted efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development and boost economic growth. In addition, unfavorable meteorological factors such as spring dust storms, abnormal summer heatwaves, and high humidity and atmospheric stagnation in fall and winter have frequently occurred in recent years, having a considerable impact on atmospheric environmental quality. It can be said that the task of continuously improving atmospheric quality remains arduous and far-reaching.

Next, we will anchor the goal of building a Beautiful China, continue to keep our skies blue as the focal point, solidly promote green and low-carbon transformation and development, and make continuous improvements in air quality to drive high-quality economic development. First, we must control pollution in a targeted manner. We will intensify structural optimization and adjustment, advance high-quality ultra-low emission retrofits in the steel, cement and coking industries, promote the shutdown and consolidation of coal-fired boilers and the substitution of clean energy for industrial furnaces, accelerate the promotion of new energy vehicles, and promote the synergistic enhancement of pollution and carbon reduction. Second, we will continue to control pollution in a science-based way. We will take key regions as the main battleground, regard reducing PM2.5 concentrations as the main line, focus on reducing the number of heavily polluted days, vigorously promote reductions in nitrogen oxides and volatile organic pollutants, and coordinately control ozone pollution. Third, we will emphasize pollution control in accordance with the law. We will further improve the laws, regulations and standards system, deepen the management of pollution discharge permits, strictly carry out supervision and management in accordance with the law, implement tailored policies for enterprises, and resolutely oppose one-size-fits-all approaches.

I believe that through the joint efforts of the whole of society, we will win this battle for blue skies, making blue skies and twinkling stars the norm, and making the people's happiness with blue skies more sustainable. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

We know that water is the source of life, crucial for production and the foundation of ecology. What work has the MEE done to protect the water ecosystem, and how do you plan to further improve water environments in the future? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

I would like to invite Ms. Guo to answer this question.

Guo Fang:

Thank you for your question. Protecting rivers and lakes is related to the well-being of the people and the long-term development of the Chinese nation. As Mr. Huang just introduced, in recent years, we have continuously carried out the campaign to keep waters clear, vigorously reduced emissions and cracked down on pollution, resulting in significant and transformative changes in our country's water ecological environment protection. Here, I would like to repeat some figures that the minister just mentioned. In 2023, the proportion of surface water classed as excellent and good quality reached 89.4%, exceeding the 14th Five-Year Plan target by 4.4 percentage points. The main stem of the Yangtze River has maintained Class II water quality for four consecutive years, and the main stem of the Yellow River has maintained Class II water quality for two consecutive years. Our mother rivers are gradually recovering vitality. We have mainly carried out work in four areas:

Water environment treatment has been continuously deepened. We all know that water problems occur in the water, but the root causes are all on shore. Only by firmly grasping the investigation and remediation of sewage outlet discharges into rivers and forcibly treating various pollution sources on shore can we solve the problem. Currently, we have investigated 560,000 kilometers of river and lake shorelines and resolved nearly 200,000 issues of direct and random sewage discharges. For example, the Taihu Lake region has continuously strengthened pollution source control and interception, leading the proportion of water quality classed as good in the main rivers flowing into the lake to reach 100% in 2023. An important manifestation is that the maximum area of cyanobacteria blooms in Taihu Lake decreased by 50.8% year on year. In the first half of this year, no significant blooms were detected in the lake, which are at their lowest level since the large-scale outbreak in 2007, demonstrating significant treatment results.

Water ecological protection and restoration have been continuously promoted. Since the 14th Five-Year Plan, we have conducted monitoring and surveys of water ecological conditions in China's seven major river basins, carried out pilot water ecological assessments focusing on the Yangtze River basin, established an indicator system centered on water ecosystem health, and guided local authorities to intensify protection and restoration efforts. After 30 years, the Coilia nasus (Chinese tapertail anchovy) has once again migrated upstream to the middle reaches of the Yangtze River and Dongting Lake. The beloved "smiling angel," the Yangtze finless porpoise, has also frequently appeared along the river.

Ecological water use has been continuously guaranteed We have issued plans for the ecological environment protection of key river basins, clarified the water flow targets for ensuring the ecological environment of key rivers and lakes, strengthened unified supervision of river basins' ecological environment, and promoted the resolution of prominent issues such as rivers drying up and lake wetland degradation. In 2023, the Yongding River, which had been dry for more than 20 years, achieved year-round water flow, and the ancient spring at Jinci Temple in Shanxi province flowed again after 30 years.

River basin management reform has been continuously deepened. We have promoted the issuance of laws protecting the Yangtze and Yellow rivers, established ecological environment supervision and management institutions for the seven major river basins, carried out basin inspections and provincial inspections in a coordinated manner, improved horizontal ecological protection compensation mechanisms across provinces, and effectively stimulated upstream and downstream collaboration in river basin protection. The Xin'an River, as a pilot for ecological compensation mechanisms across provinces in China, has maintained Class II water quality at the provincial boundary section for 12 years. The compensation mechanism has provided experience, being replicated and promoted in 23 provinces and 27 river basins.

Of course, we must recognize that the prevention of water pollution and the restoration of water ecosystems still face significant challenges and have a long way to go. Moving forward, we'll focus on building beautiful rivers and lakes and strengthening the coordination of water resources, environment and ecology. We'll urge local governments to address severe gaps in environmental infrastructure, promoting integrated upstream-downstream ecological governance systems in key river basins. We aim to steadily improve water ecosystem quality by presenting more scenes of "clear waters, green shores and fish swimming in shallow waters." Thank you. 

China News Service:

Balancing high-quality development and high-level protection is crucial for advancing Chinese modernization. It's also a major challenge for ecological and environmental protection. How should we understand high-level protection? What steps will environmental departments take to address this? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu: 

Thank you for your question. I will answer it. Correctly handling the relationship between development and protection is a longstanding and global challenge in ecological conservation. At last year's National Conference on Eco-environmental Protection, General Secretary Xi Jinping proposed the "five major relationships" that need to be handled in advancing ecological conservation on the new journey. The first and foremost is correctly balancing the relationship between high-quality development and high-level protection, which is comprehensive and plays a leading role. High-quality development, which is characterized by prioritizing the ecology and promoting green and low-carbon growth, can only be achieved through high-level protection. This protection is fundamental to and inherent in high-quality development. Conversely, high-quality development can robustly drive high-level protection. So, what is high-level protection, and how can it support high-quality development? Here are my thoughts:

First, we need to focus more on prevention at the source and establish a high-level regulatory system. This is fundamental to reducing carbon emissions and pollutants at their source, thereby improving environmental quality. We must implement ecological and environmental zoning management and differentiated control measures, providing a green standard for optimizing the layout of productive forces from the outset. We'll promote coordinated innovation in pollution reduction and carbon reduction across various fields and levels, accelerating the green and low-carbon transformation of key industries with high energy consumption and emissions.

Second, we should emphasize precise management and establish a high-level governance system. We'll incorporate precise pollution control requirements throughout our work, accurately identifying types and causes of ecological and environmental issues and pinpointing main contradictions and their key aspects. We'll ensure precision in addressing problems, timeframes, locations, targets and measures, as well as adopting targeted treatments and policies. We'll avoid one-size-fits-all approaches, simplistic methods and formalism.

Third, we should focus more on regulatory enforcement and establish a high-level standards system. By promoting the optimization and upgrading of the standards system, we'll regulate pollutant emission behaviors and drive technological advancements across various industries, leading the green transformation of economic and social development.

Fourth, we should focus more on market guidance, forming a high-level policy system. We'll improve the market-based allocation system for environmental elements like emissions rights and carbon credits and accelerate the establishment of an environmental credit supervision system. We'll also coordinate the implementation of systems such as realizing ecological product value, ecological protection compensation and environmental damage compensation. This will inspire internal motivation to preserve the environment.

Finally, we must place greater emphasis on technological empowerment and build a high-level technical system. We'll deepen reform in science and technology systems for ecological and environmental protection, establish a green technology innovation system, and implement major initiatives for scientific and technological innovation in ecological and environmental protection. These efforts will enhance technological support for the Beautiful China Initiative. 

High-quality development is the goal and value orientation of high-level protection. In this context, new quality productive forces are key to the bidirectional transformation between high-level protection and high-quality development. The MEE recently introduced policies to promote new quality productive forces in the ecological and environmental field. These are expected to enhance environmental protection's role in guiding, optimizing and driving change, promote comprehensive green transformation of economic and social development, shape new drivers and advantages through high-level protection, and continually strengthen the green foundation of high-quality development. Thank you.

Cover News: 

Ecological and environmental monitoring is fundamental to ecological and environmental protection and critical for ecological conservation. What work has been carried out in the field of ecological and environmental monitoring? What steps will be taken to develop a modernized monitoring system to ensure harmonious coexistence between people and nature? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu: 

Mr. Dong will answer this question.

Dong Baotong: 

Thank you for your question. Ecological and environmental monitoring is indeed foundational and supportive of protection efforts. Our monitoring work has reached new heights in recent years, guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization. We've built the world's largest, most comprehensive and technologically advanced ecological and environmental monitoring network, providing crucial support for environmental protection and pollution control. Our monitoring data strongly support the achievements Mr. Huang mentioned.

Regarding network scale, the ministry directly monitors 33,000 stations, including 1,734 air monitoring points, 3,646 surface water points, 1,912 groundwater points, 1,359 marine points, 1,834 radiation points, and 22,000 soil monitoring points. This system covers all cities at the prefecture level and above, key river basins, and waters under China's jurisdiction.

In terms of monitoring elements, in addition to traditional key monitoring factors such as water, air and soil, new elements have been added in recent years, including environmental quality, biodiversity, greenhouse gases and new pollutants. The process now covers basically all the monitoring elements.

In terms of technical means, automated monitoring has taken precedence over traditional manual monitoring as the main approach, with drones, mobile monitoring vehicles and lidar having become standard equipment at monitoring stations across the country. As the leading user, the MEE has a total of seven satellites in orbit, providing strong support for scientific monitoring.

Based on this modern monitoring network, we can now ensure that the monitoring data is true, accurate, comprehensive, fast and new in all aspects. This plays a crucial supporting role in the prevention and control of pollution. We are able to understand the baselines, follow the dynamics, identify issues, as well as grasp the rules to guide the advancement of pollution prevention and control.

Next, in accordance with the requirements of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, we will focus on promoting the modernization of the environmental monitoring system. This is our overall goal, and specifically, we will take the digital and intelligent transformation of monitoring as a driver. The key aspects include:

First, enhancing the monitoring network. As mentioned earlier, now that the entire system is in place, we will work to improve the integrated monitoring network covering land, sea, air and space, and address weak links, such as marine monitoring, environmental quality monitoring, biodiversity monitoring, and new pollutant monitoring. Additionally, we will strengthen the transformation toward automation, digitization and intelligence.

Second, strengthening monitoring supervision. Fraudulent third-party monitoring data from polluting units has drawn significant social attention. We will enhance in-depth supervision, and strictly crack down on data fraud in accordance with the law.

Third, enhancing data application. We will bolster the integration and smart analysis of monitoring data to support the fight against pollution more precisely. A reporter just now inquired about the building of a Beautiful China. Going forward, we will establish a set of monitoring indicators for this goal. The monitoring data will reveal whether a Beautiful China has been built or not. Thank you.

Tide News under Zhejiang Daily Press Group:

Rural areas are the "back gardens" of cities. Controlling rural pollution is an important task to fight pollution and a significant measure in implementing the rural revitalization strategy. Could you elaborate on the progress made by the MEE in the control of agricultural and rural pollution? What measures will be taken to paint a new picture of livable, business-friendly, harmonious and beautiful rural areas? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

I would like to invite Ms. Guo to answer your questions.

Guo Fang:

Thank you for your questions. Beautiful rural areas are an indispensable part of the building of a Beautiful China. The Green Rural Revival Program of Zhejiang province started by addressing the most prominent environmental issues raised by the public. Over more than 20 years, these villages have achieved a magnificent transformation from "dirty, disorderly and poor" to "green, affluent and beautiful." This has provided valuable experience for rural pollution control and the building of beautiful rural areas.

In recent years, the MEE, in collaboration with relevant departments, has been actively promoting the experience of the Green Rural Revival Program. We have focused on areas in front of and behind houses and along fields and roadsides, and made efforts to address environmental issues that concern the public. Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), 67,000 administrative villages nationwide have completed environmental improvements, the treatment rate of rural domestic sewage has exceeded 45%, the utilization rate of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has surpassed 41%, comprehensive utilization of livestock and poultry manure has reached 78%, and the recycling rate of agricultural film has exceeded 80%. Through the following "two focuses and one systematic improvement," the rural environment has shown remarkable improvements.

The first focus is the treatment of rural domestic sewage. Instead of directly applying "urban experiences," the approach involves setting the "three basic" treatment goals, namely: "basically not seeing sewage flowing, basically not smelling odor, and basically not hearing complaints from villagers." We established a bottom line of preventing direct discharge of sewage, and guided localities to adopt tailored strategies and select appropriate treatment technologies and methods, particularly encouraging resource utilization. In places like Wenshan, Yunnan province, treated domestic sewage is reused for agricultural purposes, such as growing vegetables, grains and flowers. This method, which is cost-effective, easy to manage and effective, has been well received by local farmers.

The other focus is the treatment of black and odorous water bodies in rural areas. Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), over 3,700 black and odorous water bodies under national supervision and over 6,100 such water bodies under provincial supervision have been treated. Former "smelly ditches" and "dirty ponds" have now been transformed into "picturesque waterscapes" and "gathering places" for residents. For example, in Jincheng, Shanxi province, the treatment of black and odorous water bodies has been integrated into the local efforts to carry forward traditional village culture, recreating the scene of "clean water flowing around the ancient village." Mixi village, the location of the Iron Buddha Temple from the hit game "Black Myth: Wukong," has now become a popular tourist spot. With the National Day holiday approaching, those of you who are interested can visit to see for yourself.

The one systematic improvement refers to strengthening agricultural land and soil protection. We have focused our efforts on the treatment, utilization and conservation of land and soil to ensure food safety. In total, 210 key areas have been designated nationwide, where we set special limits for heavy metal emissions. We have provided support for nearly 400 legacy waste treatment projects and completed the actions against the illegal operations of over 2,300 companies. Efforts have been made to protect the black soil, restore and maintain soil fertility, and promote increases in organic matter and soil health.

Of course, China has vast rural areas where environmental problems still occur from time to time. For example, in some regions, rural sewage treatment facilities have been built but are not operating normally, and livestock and poultry manure as well as household waste is randomly dumped. As such, we have optimized the problem finding mechanism. In order not to increase the burden on the grassroots, we do not evaluate the work of local governments by the number of reports submitted, but rather by random sampling, and we also ask the media to assist with supervision. We and the People's Daily Online formed a special channel, using messages they received from the grassroots as a key source for identifying problems. We conduct special checks that start without prior notice, forgo any form of work report, escort or official hospitality, and go directly to the site at the community level. We have also carried out field surveys, evidence collection, case notification and regular scheduling to discover and resolve problems in a timely manner, in a bid to expand the achievements of rural environmental improvements.

Maintaining our goal of building a Beautiful China, we will formulate implementation plans to support the beautiful countryside initiative, comprehensively enhance the rural revitalization strategy, improve the rural living environment, and make sustained efforts to prevent and control agricultural non-point pollution. By doing so, rural areas are expected to be built into beautiful, livable and happy homes that contain lush mountains, lucid waters, and typical rustic charm. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

Nuclear safety is of the absolute utmost significance to nuclear power development. What measures has the MEE taken to guarantee nuclear and radiation safety? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

I would like to invite Mr. Dong to answer your question. He is also the administrator of the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA).

Dong Baotong:

Thank you for your question. As you mentioned, nuclear safety is the lifeblood of nuclear power development, and guaranteeing nuclear safety is of the utmost importance. In recent years, the MEE and NNSA have earnestly applied the holistic approach to national security and nuclear security proposed by General Secretary Xi Jinping, and worked hard to guarantee nuclear safety. Our work has mainly focused on the following aspects:

First, we have ensured enterprises that operate nuclear power plants fulfil their principal responsibilities in line with the law. Nuclear power plants are all operated by enterprises. We urge the enterprises to give top priority to nuclear safety, effectively operate the safety guarantee system, and seamlessly connect all sectors. 

Second, we have maintained the highest standards and pursued the highest quality. We have done this, first, by formulating the strictest laws and regulations, and keeping higher safety standards compared with other industries. Second, by implementing a strict quality guarantee system including high-quality equipment as well as work management. Third, by starting from the source and adhering to mature design and in-depth defenses, taking into account different elements and risks during the design, and setting up multiple safety barriers to avoid accidents. Fourth, by conducting qualification management and rigorous evaluations of all important staff including operators, welders and nondestructive testers. 

Third, we have earnestly performed our supervisory duties, and implemented strict and independent administration throughout the entire process. Whole-process permissions are authorized at each nuclear power plant from siting, design, construction, debugging and operation to decommissioning and the manufacture of certain important equipment. At those key links, we have established several control points and conducted on-site examinations to ensure all the sectors meet the necessary standards. Environmental radiation is monitored around the clock, including effluents and environment quality. At present, 1,834 points are set across the country to monitor the environment around nuclear facilities. On critical nuclear safety issues, we have adhered to prudent decision making to ensure safety and prevent risks. All these are concrete supervision requirements regarding nuclear safety.

Fourth, we have replicated transferable experiences. Problems that one nuclear power plant encounter should be learned from by other nuclear power plants. Abnormal cases during construction and operation must be reported in a timely manner and informed to all plants in the country. We also need to understand about and learn from problems that appear at foreign nuclear power plants, as well as introduce our experiences to them at the same time. Living in a community with a shared future, one country's nuclear safety may affect the overall development of nuclear power around the whole world.

Finally, we have highlighted scientific research on nuclear safety. The National Nuclear Safety Center was established as a scientific research base for nuclear safety supervision to carry out research, make breakthroughs and thoroughly understand relevant topics. We have encouraged enterprises and institutions to make joint efforts to guarantee nuclear safety. 

At present, China has approved a total of 102 nuclear power units, among which 57 units are operational, 30 are under construction, and 15 have received approval to be built. China has upgraded from second- to third-generation nuclear power technology, and the fourth-generation technology has begun to be applied, meaning the country's nuclear power development has entered the world's advanced ranks. From the perspective of nuclear safety, China has maintained a good nuclear safety record, and detected no abnormal environmental data so far, which has guaranteed the country's high-quality development of nuclear industry as a whole.

Looking forward, we will implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and the important directives issued by General Secretary Xi Jinping at the National Conference on Ecological and Environmental Protection. We will build a strict responsibility system on nuclear safety, and improve the modern supervision system on nuclear safety, so as to achieve high-level nuclear safety and better ensure public safety and environmental health. Thank you.

The Poster News App:

Carbon market serves as an essential policy tool for China to implement proactive national strategies on climate change and to achieve peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. What has the MEE done to operate and manage the carbon market? In the future, how will it give play to its functions to boost green and low-carbon transformation and achieve the goals of peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality? What progress has been made so far in statistical accounting as a fundamental system for carbon emission management? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

I would like to invite Mr. Zhao to answer this question.

Zhao Yingming:

Thank you for your question. The carbon market is an important approach to controlling greenhouse gas emissions using market mechanisms, and peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. It is also a globally accepted climate governance policy tool. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council attach great importance to the construction of the carbon market. In July 2021 and January 2024, they successively launched the China Carbon Emission Trade Exchange and the national voluntary greenhouse gas emission reduction trading market, which together form China's national carbon market system. The construction of the carbon market has made positive progress and achieved significant results. These can be summarized in four aspects:

First, a basic legal and regulatory framework has been established. The State Council issued the Interim Regulations on the Administration of Carbon Emission Trading, and the MEE, along with relevant departments, developed 33 rules covering carbon emission accounting and verification, registration and transaction settlement, forming a preliminary multi-level and comprehensive legal and regulatory system.

Second, a foundational support system has been established. The National Carbon Trading Market Information Network has been created, and national registration and trading institutions for carbon emissions and voluntary greenhouse gas emission reductions have been established. Infrastructure for registration, transaction settlement and management platforms has been built and is operating steadily.

Third, the quality of carbon market data and management capabilities has been significantly enhanced. A regular supervision mechanism for carbon emission data quality has been established. Utilizing big data and other technologies, a comprehensive data quality supervision system has been developed, greatly improving regulatory efficiency and the quality of carbon emission data. Additionally, the scientific and standardized data accounting standards and methods for the national carbon market have laid a solid foundation for carbon footprint management.

Fourth, the national carbon market has achieved a stable start and steady operation, with market vitality gradually increasing. As of the end of this August, the cumulative trading volume of carbon allowances in the national carbon market reached 476 million metric tons, with a transaction value of 27.9 billion yuan (about $3.9 billion). The carbon price fluctuated around 90 yuan per metric ton, remaining at a generally reasonable level. Since the national market for voluntary greenhouse gas emission reduction trading launched at the beginning of this year, it has attracted attention from various domestic and international parties, highlighting the effectiveness and importance of mobilizing society through market mechanisms to actively participate in carbon reduction, pollution reduction, greening expansion and economic growth.

Carbon emission accounting and verification are the foundation for managing and controlling greenhouse gas emissions. In recent years, we have continuously organized the preparation of national and provincial greenhouse gas inventories, regularly publishing unified and authoritative emission factors at various levels. We have refined the carbon emission statistics and accounting system for energy activities and industrial processes, providing essential support services to meet the diverse carbon accounting needs of society. In May, we issued the Implementation Plan for the Building of the Carbon Footprint Management System along with 14 ministries and commissions, outlining 22 key tasks across four areas. We have also released the national standard for carbon footprint accounting of products, creating conditions for the development of specific product carbon footprint accounting standards.

Next, we will align with the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council to improve the carbon emission accounting system. We will further expand the industry coverage of the carbon market, release more methodologies, include more participants, and strictly regulate the quality of carbon market data. Our focus will be on building a more effective, dynamic and internationally influential carbon market.

Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

I see two reporters have their hands raised. Last two questions please.

Red Star News: 

The Resolution of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed the implementation of region-specific environmental management systems featuring differentiated, targeted regulation. Could you please introduce the region-specific environmental management systems? And what are the further considerations? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

I would like to invite Ms. Guo to answer this question.

Guo Fang:

Thank you for your question. Mr. Huang has introduced the region-specific environmental management systems with nationwide coverage in his opening introduction. It is well known that our country has a vast territory, and there are significant differences in natural conditions, carrying capacities and functional positioning across different regions. This necessitates careful management of the relationship between development and protection, and ecological and environmental access management from the source. The region-specific environmental management systems refers to adopting differentiated management based on ecological protection red lines, environmental quality bottom lines, and resource utilization upper limits. They serve as the foundation for regional ecological environment management, establishing clear boundaries and bottom lines for development.

Since 2017, the MEE has launched pilot programs in four cities, including Lianyungang and the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and expanded nationwide two years later. Currently, the region-specific environmental management systems have been basically established, with provincial and municipal control plans implemented. A total of 44,604 units have been classified into three categories: priority protection, key control and general control, each with a clear entry list specifying what is permissible. Based on this, information platforms for ecological environment management at provincial, municipal and district levels have completed basic functionalities and have been put into operation, supporting digital and intelligent application of policy implementation, environmental access, park management and law enforcement. It has achieved "one map overview, one-click assessment, and one-stop service" at the primary level. For instance, Xiamen was the first to open its region-specific environmental management application system to the public, allowing investment projects to check their compliance with conditions and standards, resulting in a reduction in low-efficiency investments and an improvement of business environments.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee clearly proposed implementing region-specific environmental management systems with differentiated, targeted regulation, providing guidance for the next phase of work. We'll focus on implementing reform tasks and achieving "Three Further Steps."

First, we'll further strengthen our work's foundation. This includes promoting the incorporation of region-specific management into the environmental code, increasing support for major national science and technology projects, and researching key technologies such as management unit division and precise control in regional management.

Second, we'll further enhance platform applications. We'll develop guidelines for information platform construction and interface specifications, integrating large amounts of environmental monitoring data. We'll also strengthen interconnection between national and provincial platforms, expand application scenarios and improve platform efficiency.

Third, we'll further create synergy within the system. This includes launching pilot projects that align territorial spatial planning and coordinate pollution reduction with carbon-cutting efforts. These projects will strengthen policy coherence. We'll also promote reforms linking region-specific ecological and environmental management with environmental impact assessments and pollutant discharge permits, enhancing source prevention. By acting early and implementing concrete measures, we aim to ensure high-level protection drives high-quality development from the very outset of environmental management.

Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

One last question, please.

Phoenix TV:

Environmental protection has become a crucial issue in global governance and a key area for international competition and cooperation. China has also transformed significantly from a participant in global environmental governance to a leader. Could you briefly introduce these changes and explain how China plans to contribute more of its wisdom and solutions to global ecological civilization development in the next stage? Thank you.

Huang Runqiu:

Thank you for your question. The topic you brought up is one that I have deep feelings and insights about, and I'll provide a brief response.

I still vividly remember the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) in Montreal, Canada, in 2022, where China held the presidency, and I chaired the conference. At the closing ceremony, as I struck the gavel to announce the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework — a landmark global agreement reached after nearly a decade of arduous negotiations to protect the planet's biodiversity — the hall, packed with thousands, erupted in thunderous applause. Participants cheered, embraced one another, and expressed their respect and congratulations for China's contributions as the presiding nation. At that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. This marked the first time China, holding the presidency, had successfully steered negotiations for a major international environmental treaty. I also deeply realized that this achievement was the result of President Xi Jinping's personal attention and high-level promotion of the process. President Xi Jinping delivered two video addresses during the conference, which played a crucial role in advancing the negotiations and securing the adoption of the framework, demonstrating China's sense of responsibility and leadership as a major global power.

The same applies to the field of climate change. In 2015, it was also under the direct promotion of President Xi Jinping that the Paris Agreement on climate change was reached. Since then, at subsequent climate conferences focused on implementing the Paris Agreement, China has acted as a stabilizer, promoter, and leader in concrete actions. We've strived to build consensus among all parties and advocate for a fair, reasonable, cooperative and mutually beneficial global governance system for climate change. These efforts have been fully recognized and widely praised by the international community.

Over the years, President Xi Jinping has successively put forward the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). These major initiatives all incorporate environmental and climate governance as key components, propelling efforts to build a community for all life on Earth. We have made a solemn commitment to the world: we will strive to peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Additionally, we've pledged to stop building new coal power projects overseas and to assist developing countries and small island states in developing renewable energy and enhancing their capacity to address climate change. We've signed climate change cooperation and assistance agreements with more than 40 countries, launched the Africa Solar Belt Program, and provided 60% of the world's wind power equipment and 70% of its photovoltaic module equipment. Over the past decade, China's significant technological advancements and large-scale deployment of renewable energy have helped reduce global wind power and photovoltaic generation costs by more than 60% and 80%, respectively. This has made a tremendous contribution to global carbon reduction and green transformation — an internationally recognized achievement.

Since the new era began, Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization has gained international recognition. A series of core concepts, such as "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," green development prioritizing eco-environmental conservation, harmony between humanity and nature, and building a community for all life on Earth, have been widely promoted globally. These ideas have become advanced concepts guiding global environmental governance, contributing China's wisdom and solutions to global sustainable development. Consequently, China has significantly shifted from participating in global environmental governance to becoming a leader.

Looking to the future, we will uphold the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, continue to deepen international cooperation in ecological and environmental protection, and actively participate in and lead global environmental and climate governance. Together, we will protect our shared home on Earth and make greater contributions to building a clean and beautiful world.

Thank you to all the journalists.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Huang, thank you to all the speakers and thank you to all the journalists for your participation. This concludes today's press conference. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, Zhu Bochen, Yuan Fang, Wang Ziteng, Ma Yujia, Mi Xingang, Zhang Rui, Chen Xinyan, Wang Wei, Lin Liyao, Wang Xingguang, Li Huiru, Liu Caiyi, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Li Zhong, vice minister of human resources and social security

Mr. Lu Aihong, spokesperson of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS) and director general of the Policy Research Department of the MOHRSS

Mr. Song Xin, deputy director general of the Employment Promotion Department of the MOHRSS

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 24, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Li Zhong, vice minister of human resources and social security, to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Lu Aihong, spokesperson of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS) and director general of the Policy Research Department of the MOHRSS; and Mr. Song Xin, deputy director general of the Employment Promotion Department of the MOHRSS.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Li for his introduction.

Li Zhong:

Friends from the media, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. I am very pleased to attend this press conference. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude for your continued interest in and support for the developments in the human resources and social security sector.

In advancing Chinese modernization, we prioritize people's wellbeing. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has attached great importance to ensuring and improving people's wellbeing, responding to people's new expectations for a better life, and arranging and promoting a series of major targeted and high value-added reforms to ensure a more complete and lasting sense of fulfillment, happiness and security for our people. In terms of employment, we continue to insist that employment is the most basic component of the people's wellbeing, advocate the employment-first strategy, enrich and develop a proactive employment policy, and improve relevant systems. The average annual number of newly-added urban jobs in China is 13 million, and the number of employed individuals from poverty-stricken backgrounds remains stable at over 30 million, maintaining overall stability in the employment sector. In terms of social security, we have brought the development of the social security system onto a fast track and successfully built the world's largest social security network. We have strengthened the top-level design, and continuously improved the basic old-age insurance, unemployment insurance and work-related injury insurance. We work to see that everyone has access to social security, and the number of insured people has continued to rise. We have steadily increased various social security benefits, continued to expand the scale of fund surplus, and continuously optimized management services. All these have laid a solid foundation for improving the people's wellbeing, economic development and social harmony.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made systematic plans for further deepening reform comprehensively, improving the people's quality of life, and emphasizing that ensuring and enhancing the people's wellbeing in the course of development is one of the major tasks of Chinese modernization. Focusing on ensuring and improving the people's wellbeing, it clarified a series of major reforms such as improving the employment-first policy and social security system, and gradually raising the statutory retirement age. The MOHRSS will adhere to the people-centered reforms, develop sound mechanisms for promoting high-quality and full employment, and improve the multi-tiered social security system that covers the entire population in urban and rural areas and see that it is fair, unified, reliable, well-regulated, and sustainable. We will ensure the implementation of reforms with relentless perseverance, and make positive contributions to high-quality development.

That is all for my introduction. Now, my colleagues and I are ready to answer your questions. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Li. The floor is now open for questions. Please state the name of the news organization you represent before asking your question.

China News Service:

Stabilizing and promoting employment has always been a major issue of public concern. What are our current considerations for promoting high-quality and full employment? Thank you.

Li Zhong:

Thank you for your question. Employment is the most basic component to people's well-being. The CPC Central Committee has attached great importance to this matter of wide public concern. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has explicitly prioritized the development of sound mechanisms to promote high-quality and full employment as one of the major reform tasks. We will remain committed to promoting high-quality and full employment, making it a new position and mission for ensuring employment in the new era and new journey. We will implement a principle of promoting self-reliant employment, market-regulated employment, government-backed employment and entrepreneurship, adopting an employment-first strategy and strengthening an employment-first policy. By deepening the reform to the employment mechanism and institution, we are aiming to effectively improve the quality of employment and promote its growth within a reasonable range. To be more specific, our priorities are as follows: 

First, strengthen an employment-first approach. We'll make promoting high-quality and full employment a top priority in economic and social development. To achieve this, we will actively coordinate employment policies with macroeconomic policies, such as fiscal and monetary policies, to better leverage the role of development in boosting employment. While striving to modernize the industrial system, we'll prioritize support to industries and enterprises which are able to create more jobs, and create new employment opportunities in the process of replacing old growth drivers. We'll also step up efforts with creating more job opportunities by adopting key policies, launching major projects and optimizing the allocation of major productive forces.

Second, tackle structural unemployment. In response to the new wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation, we'll establish a mechanism to forecast demand for human resources and enhance surveys on employment posts in order to release catalogs of in-demand occupations and those with labor shortages in a timely manner. By doing so, we'll enhance the farsightedness of the development of human resources. Moreover, we'll strengthen the workforce's capabilities by focusing on education, training and employment in a coordinated manner. To this end, we'll improve the system of lifelong vocational training and further implement an action plan to foster more skilled workers, launching the program to enhance workforce skills for enterprises. 

Third, improving the policy support system for key groups. We'll always prioritize the employment of college graduates and young people, and strengthen fiscal support, tax policy support and financial support. We'll intensify efforts to create more jobs and provide opportunities for young people to work at primary level to cultivate talents, and will enhance the alignment of services on and off campus, thus ensuring the overall stability of youth employment. We'll encourage people to seek jobs both in other places and close to their homes as well as foster labor-service brands and improve the service system for migrant workers, stabilizing the employment of migrant workers from rural areas, especially those being lifted out of poverty. We will smooth the channels for unemployed people and those facing difficulties with employment so they can seek assistance, thus improving mechanisms that offer them support.

Fourth, encourage employment and entrepreneurship. On the one hand, we will improve the public service system for employment and ensure a unified and regulated market system for human resources. By doing so, we're aiming to ensure employment services become more accessible, equitable and specialized. On the other hand, we will improve the system for creating jobs by encouraging business startups, optimizing the support system for business startups that covers training programs, business incubators and other relevant activities. We will optimize a comprehensive package of measures, including policy support, provision of workspaces and resource matching, to enhance the quality of entrepreneurship.

Fifth, create a fair environment for employment. We'll improve labor laws and regulations, enhance labor relation consultations and mediation, and improve social security system, so as to protect the legitimate rights and interests of workers. We will intensify market supervision and regulation, as well as strengthen oversight and enforcement of labor protection laws, in order to address such issues as employment discrimination, wage arrears, lack of employment insurance and illegal layoffs. In this way, we'll ensure channels of social mobility. Thank you. 

Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:

There's concern about employment of college graduates and young people. What measures will be adopted to boost youth employment? Thank you. 

Li Zhong:

It's important to promote youth employment, and I'd like to invite Mr. Song to share more information about the specific measures in this regard. 

Song Xin:

Thank you for your question. The employment of college graduates and other young people is a top priority in promoting employment. This year, the MOHRSS has worked with relevant departments to release a new package of employment policies to develop job opportunities, provide employment services and offer assistance for those facing employment difficulties. Going forward, we'll focus on efforts that offer employment services to unemployed college graduates, and intensify our endeavors to implement policies, facilitate job matching as well as improve abilities, so as to boost youth employment and entrepreneurship.

First, we will establish a real-name work ledger system. This initiative will focus on unemployed new college graduates, registered unemployed youth, and others to comprehensively gather personal information, job-seeking needs, and employment status. Simultaneously, the MOHRSS's website and other platforms have launched job-seeking registration mini-programs. Unemployed graduates can register through these programs and be incorporated into the real-name ledger.

Second, we will implement the "1131" concentrated service initiative. For unemployed youth in the real-name ledger, we will provide at least one policy briefing, one career guidance session, three job recommendations, and one skill training or internship opportunity to promote their swift employment.

Third, we will implement one-on-one assistance for those facing difficulties. For graduates from families living on subsistence allowances and poverty-alleviated households, disabled graduates, and young people facing prolonged unemployment, we will organize paired assistance. We will implement a "one person, one policy" approach, prioritizing guidance services, job recommendations, and training and internships for these individuals.

Fourth, we will conduct a series of targeted recruitment activities. Recently, we launched a special joint recruitment initiative for college graduates in large- and medium-sized cities. Following the National Day holiday, we plan to organize additional services, including the Golden Autumn Recruitment Month. Furthermore, local authorities will carry out a number of specialized, industry-specific, and regional recruitment drives. These efforts are aimed at promoting employment opportunities for college graduates and other young job seekers. Thank you!

CCTV:

At present, the public has many new expectations regarding social security. Could you please explain how reforms in the social security sector will be further deepened? Thank you.

Li Zhong:

Thank you for your question. Let me address this. Social security serves as both a safety net for people's lives and a stabilizer for society. It's a major issue for national governance and stability. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the construction of China's social security system has accelerated, achieving historic achievements and undergoing historic changes. First, the system has become sounder. We've achieved unified national management of basic old-age insurance funds for enterprise employees and implemented a unified old-age insurance system for urban and rural residents. We've essentially established a multi-tiered social security system. Second, coverage has continued to expand. Enrollment in basic old-age, unemployment, and work-related injury insurance has reached 1.074 billion, 245 million, and 301 million people, respectively. Third, we have steadily improved the level of security and gradually established and refined benefit determination and adjustment mechanisms. Fourth, we have continuously strengthened our security capacity, achieving steady growth in fund revenue, expenditure, and balance. Fifth, we have optimized service quality. We have largely established a five-tier urban-rural management and service network, issued social security cards to 98% of the population, and consistently improved public satisfaction with our services.

Through unremitting efforts, China has accomplished in a few decades what took many countries over a century. We've built the world's largest social security system, which is comprehensive and has distinct Chinese characteristics, laying a solid foundation for improving people's quality of life.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made important arrangements for improving the social security system. We will continue to deepen reforms, adhering to principles of systematic integration, coordination, and efficiency. Our goal is to promote high-quality, sustainable development of the social security system, providing more comprehensive, reliable, and equitable social security for the public. We will focus on the following five key areas:

First, we will enhance sustainability and strengthen the institutional foundation for stable operation. We will further improve the unified national management of basic old-age insurance funds for enterprise employees and study policy measures to expand the annuity system coverage. Additionally, we will roll out the private pension system nationwide, increase the scale of market-oriented investment and operation of funds, and improve the system for maintaining and increasing the value of social security funds.

Second, we will enhance accessibility and continuously expand social insurance coverage. We will improve social insurance systems for flexible workers, migrant workers, and those in new forms of employment. We'll expand pilot projects on occupational injury insurance for workers in new employment forms, implement policies to remove household registration restrictions for flexible workers' insurance participation, and bring more people under security coverage.

Second, we will enhance security and improve the fund security supervision system. We will further ensure that the principal responsibilities for fund safety risk prevention and control and supervision duties are assumed. We will optimize the prevention and control system, which covers four aspects: policies, services, information and supervision. We will enhance the whole-chain supervision on fund operation, improve abilities in risk prevention and control, and continue to safeguard people's money for elderly care and emergency use.

Fourth, we will increase convenience and continue to optimize the management and service system. We will improve the nationally unified public platform for social insurance services and the one-stop government service working mechanism. We will comprehensively enhance service channels and promote the handling of resident services through a single social security card. 

Fifth, we will strengthen standards and enhance law-based governance. We will improve and revise relevant laws and regulations on social security at the proper time, ensuring the system's unified standards and mandatory limits. We will ensure the implementation of existing laws and regulations, and improve supporting policies and detailed rules for implementation. Thank you. 

Xinhua News Agency:

On Sept. 13, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) released a decision on gradually raising the statutory retirement age, which received widespread attention. What measures will be taken for implementing the decision starting Jan. 1, 2025? Thank you. 

Li Zhong:

On Sept. 13, the 11th session of the 14th NPC Standing Committee adopted the decision on gradually raising the statutory retirement age, specifying the goal, principles, main tasks and guarantee measures for the reform. On Sept. 19, the State Council held a video meeting on mobilizing efforts on gradually raising statutory retirement age, making deployments in this regard. Over the next three months, from now until Jan. 1 of next year, we will work with relevant departments, and earnestly implement the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adopt a systematic approach, focus on the reform's key points, and work in various aspects to prepare for implementing the reform in a prudent and orderly manner. We will deliver in the following aspects:

First, we will accelerate the process of formulating and improving supporting policies and measures. Based on suggestions from various parties, we have earnestly researched necessary supporting policies and measures, such as those on promoting employment, safeguarding workers' rights and interests, and the retirement of workers in high-altitude areas. We will work with relevant departments to accelerate the formulation of relevant policies and supporting measures. At the same time, we will adhere to the principle of voluntary participation and appropriate flexibility, and work out specific plans, specifying procedures on applying for flexible retirement. 

Second, we will enhance explanation and promotion of reform policies. Through various channels, such as social security service windows and the 12333 hotline, we will provide policy consultation services for workers, explain our considerations behind the policies, and interpret guarantee measures and service procedures, helping workers to better understand the policies. 

Third, we will prepare for various aspects of application processing services. According to the principles and requirements for one-stop government services, we will adjust and improve social security service procedures, enhance information sharing among departments, and streamline and optimize procedures, to facilitate entities and employees to apply for relevant services. 

Thank you. 

China Daily:

The Chinese delegation again achieved outstanding results at the recently concluded 47th WorldSkills Competition. Could you introduce the details? Thank you. 

Li Zhong: 

At the recent 47th WorldSkills Competition, the Chinese delegation achieved outstanding results. For further details, I would like to invite Mr. Lu to brief you. 

Lu Aihong: 

Thank you for your question. The WorldSkills Competition is the most influential global vocational skills event, often called the "Skills Olympics." From Sept. 10 to 15, the 47th WorldSkills Competition took place in Lyon, France, with participants from more than 70 countries and regions. The Chinese delegation sent 68 contestants to compete in all 59 events. This marks China's seventh participation in the competition and its largest delegation to date, participating in the largest number of events. After intense competition, the Chinese delegation won 36 gold medals, nine silver medals, four bronze medals and eight excellence awards, again ranking first in the gold medal tally, total medals and overall team score. Our young skilled workers engaged in exchanges and skill-sharing with contestants from various countries, showcasing exceptional skills and positive spirit, earning widespread acclaim.

The Chinese delegation won awards in 57 events across six categories at the competition. They excelled in their traditional strengths: the team clinched its fifth consecutive win in computer numerical control milling, while also claiming a fourth consecutive title in both masonry and fashion technology. The team also secured third consecutive wins in body repair, electrical installations, electronics and mobile robotics. Breakthroughs were also made in emerging industry events. Notably, in the Industry 4.0 category, the Chinese delegation won gold for the first time and received the Albert Vidal Award for achieving the highest score across all events.

Since joining WorldSkills in 2010, 283 Chinese contestants have participated in the WorldSkills Competition, winning 93 gold medals, 41 silver medals, 28 bronze medals and 71 excellence awards. These contestants have not only brought honor to the country but have also opened up broader growth and development opportunities for themselves. Many of them have dedicated themselves to passing on their skills and becoming role models for young people. They positively guide young workers toward skill-based employment, professional development, and using their talents to serve the country.

The 48th WorldSkills Competition will be held in Shanghai in 2026. We will earnestly implement the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, working closely with the Shanghai municipal government and relevant parties to ensure a well-organized event that is innovative and widely impactful. We hope that the media will continue to pay attention to and support this initiative. Thank you.

Farmers' Daily: 

China has nearly 300 million off-farm workers. What measures will be taken to promote their employment? Thank you.

Li Zhong: 

Off-farm workers are a key focus in employment. I'll let Mr. Song answer this question.

Song Xin: 

Thank you for your question. Promoting employment and income for off-farm workers is crucial. In recent years, the human resources and social security authorities have emphasized both out-of-town work and local employment to stabilize employment for off-farm workers and those who have escaped poverty. Currently, there are about 300 million off-farm workers nationwide, including 190 million working outside their hometowns and over 30 million formerly impoverished individuals. Moving forward, we'll actively promote coordinated urban-rural employment and further improve the support system for off-farm worker employment, focusing on four areas:

First, we'll enhance the mechanism for out-of-town work to ensure workers can relocate and maintain stable jobs. We'll improve labor cooperation mechanisms to provide comprehensive services, including job collection, precise matching and efficient placement. We'll also enhance job stabilization services by leveraging off-farm worker service stations in destination areas to achieve stable local employment. Additionally, we're cultivating more distinctive skilled labor brands to help more off-farm workers achieve skill-based employment. Currently, nearly 500 unique skilled labor brands have formed nationwide, with some brands facilitating employment and entrepreneurship for over 1 million people.

Second, we will expand local employment channels to ensure job opportunities and income growth. Currently, finding jobs close to home has become a new choice for an increasing number of migrant workers. We will explore new employment opportunities amid the country's efforts to support the implementation of major national strategies, build up security capacity in key areas, drive large-scale equipment upgrades and promote trade-in programs for consumer goods. In addition, while advancing new urbanization and comprehensive rural revitalization, we will make efforts to enhance employment capacity at the county level. At the same time, we will give full play to the role of employment service stations and gig markets, so as to create more service platforms where enterprises can hire workers nearby and people can find jobs close to home.

Third, we will encourage people to return to their hometowns to start businesses and increase their incomes, so as to boost motivation and vitality. For migrant workers interested in returning to their hometowns to start businesses, we will provide entrepreneurial services and follow up the implementation of supportive policies. Currently, we are conducting a campaign to promote entrepreneurship, with efforts focused on offering policy implementation, information exchange, and resource matchmaking services to those who are returning or moving to the countryside to start businesses.

Fourth, we will enhance efforts to prioritize employment support, helping those most in need and preventing risks. We will always prioritize employment assistance for those lifted out of poverty, and continue to implement actions to prevent them from returning to poverty. This involves the "four priorities," namely: prioritizing outbound employment, prioritizing enterprise recruitment, prioritizing job stability, and prioritizing efforts to help those most in need. Thank you.

CNR:

We know that with the continuous development of the new economy and new forms of business, more and more new occupations are emerging. What are the considerations in actively cultivating and exploring new occupational categories? Thank you.

Li Zhong:

I would like to invite Mr. Lu to answer this question.

Lu Aihong:

Thank you for your question. New occupations, in terms of the Occupational Classification Code of the People's Republic of China, refer to occupations not yet included in the official classification. New occupations have two basic characteristics. First, a significant number of people are already engaged in these roles to support social and economic development; and second, they require relatively independent and mature professional skills.

In 1999, China issued the Occupational Classification Code of the People's Republic of China, which serves as a crucial framework for job classification in the country. It plays a fundamental and guiding role in labor demand forecasting and planning, employment population structure and trends analysis, as well as in vocational education and employment guidance. The classification has been revised twice. The latest edition, published in 2022, categorizes existing occupations into eight groups, including 1,639 occupations.

Due to economic and social development, technological progress, and the adjustment and upgrading of industrial structures, new industries, new forms of business and new models are rapidly developing. As such, new occupations are emerging and continually evolving, and need to be promptly identified and announced. Collecting and publishing new occupations in a timely manner is of great significance. First, it helps promote employment and entrepreneurship. Gathering, regulating and publishing information on new occupations helps to enhance their social recognition and expand employment options for workers. Second, it is conducive to promoting the alignment of talent cultivation with market demand. By announcing new occupations and developing new standards, we provide a basis and reference for vocational education, including majors setting, curriculum design and textbook development, which will enhance the relevance and applicability of skills training. Third, it supports the healthy growth of new business forms. By establishing relevant standards and norms, we will guide the healthy development of new occupations, so as to promote the development of new forms of business in a more standardized and professional way.

We will closely follow new trends in economic and social development, fully mobilize various resources, and actively explore and cultivate new occupational categories. Our focus will be on three areas:

First, we will continue to collect and publish information on new occupations. Our ministry has established a system for releasing information on new occupations. This year, we have published 19 new occupations, including biological engineering technician, oral health technician, industrial internet operation and maintenance personnel, exhibition organizer, cultural and creative product planning and operations conductor, and intelligent manufacturing system operation and maintenance personnel. We will focus on developing new quality productive forces, serving the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, nurturing and growing emerging industries, and planning the layout of future industries. We will continuously and dynamically adjust the occupational classification system and collect and publish a batch of new occupations each year.

Second, we will accelerate the development of standards and foundational training resources for new occupations. We will fully leverage the role of market entities and rely on leading enterprises, industry organizations and educational institutions to develop standards or evaluation norms for new occupations. At the same time, we will enhance the development of basic training packages and training materials for new occupations.

Third, we will vigorously enhance the capabilities of personnel engaged in new occupations. We will stick to the market and employment orientation and widely carry out training for personnel in new occupations. We will organize the collection and selection of evaluation agencies for new occupations, and systematically carry out self-evaluation by employers and social evaluation. In various vocational skills competitions at all levels, we will actively set up categories for new occupations. Thank you.

The Beijing News: 

Public employment services have always played an important role in employer recruitment and the job-seeking process. What are the plans and measures for optimizing public employment services? Thank you.

Li Zhong: 

I would like to invite Mr. Song to answer this question.

Song Xin: 

Thank you for your question. Public employment services are an important part of China's basic public services and a key means of stabilizing and expanding employment. Currently, there are more than 4,400 public employment and talent service agencies across the country, serving an average of 110 million people annually. There are over 6,900 odd-jobs markets, serving an average of nearly 300,000 people every day.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improving the public employment service system. We will continue to strengthen and enhance comprehensive public employment services that cover everyone, span the entire process, radiate across all areas, and are convenient and efficient, providing support for high-quality and full employment.

First, we will improve the system and promote equal access to services. We will eliminate restrictions based on household registration, region and identity, supporting urban and rural workers to enjoy employment services at their place of employment or job hunting. We will improve the service guarantee system for enterprises, providing equal recruitment and employment services to state-owned enterprises, private enterprises and individual business organizations.

Second, we will perfect the system to enhance service accessibility. We will continuously refine public employment service functions and provide targeted career guidance, job placement and other services to various recipients. We will establish convenient employment service stations and odd-jobs markets close to people's homes, create "15-minute service circles," and promote a service model of "big data plus in-person assistance" to push service resources down to the grassroots level.

Third, we will enhance capabilities and promote professional services. We will implement a capacity-building plan for public employment service personnel and build a high-quality team of service personnel with an appropriate structure. At the same time, we will further leverage the role of market-oriented human resource service agencies to expand the supply of specialized services and facilitate effective human resource connections.

Fourth, we will achieve smart services through digital capabilities. We will promote the continuous improvement of integrated provincial-level employment information resource databases and employment information platforms in various regions, make policies and services available online, and improve service efficiency. We will build and utilize a unified national public employment service information platform, promote information networking and data sharing, and support workers in enjoying employment services across various regions. Thank you.

Jinan Daily APP:

In recent years, there has been strong demand for skilled workers in the labor market. What measures will be taken to boost the development of skilled workers? Thank you.

Li Zhong:

Thank you for your question. Skilled workers are a significant force supporting China's manufacturing and innovation. To advance high-quality development and build a modernized industrial system, cultivating a large-scale, well-structured, and high-quality force of skilled workers is of the utmost urgency. In terms of the development of skilled workers, we will prioritize work in the following aspects: 

First, we will give priority to improving skills and build a system of lifelong vocational skills training. We will establish a vocational skills training system centered around enterprises, with vocational schools as the foundation, and combining government promotion with social support. We will focus on key areas such as the digital economy and green economy, as well as key industries such as health care and elderly care, pay close attention to shortages of skilled workers in new growth drivers and new vocations, and guide workers to actively participate in vocational skills training.

Second, we will give priority to the principal role of enterprises and boost the development of enterprises by strengthening the skills of workers. We will foster an enterprise skill ecological chain integrating production, education and evaluation by encouraging leading enterprises to take the lead, industrial chain enterprises to work together, and technical schools to provide training resources. We will promote a new type of apprentice system for enterprises with Chinese characteristics. We will enhance the construction of bases for training highly-skilled personnel and studios for skilled masters, and enhance the basic capabilities of enterprises to cultivate highly-skilled personnel.

Third, we will give priority to the integration of industry and vocational education, and promote the high-quality development of specialized technical education. We will promote a skilled personnel training model integrating industry and vocational education, deepen school-enterprise cooperation, accelerate the development of regional, industrial and other types of technical education alliances and groups, and improve the quality of education. We will dynamically adjust and optimize the provision of specialties to promote the in-depth integration of talent training and industrial development.

Fourth, we will give priority to innovation in mechanisms, and ensure that development channels for skilled personnel are unimpeded. We will thoroughly implement the new eight-level vocational skill rating system, support enterprises to carry out assessments of special-grade senior technicians and chief technicians, and make explorations on promoting the expansion of integrated areas for the career development of highly-skilled personnel and professionals. A wide range of skills competitions will be held.

Fifth, we will give priority to incentives and guarantees, and make skilled employment more attractive. We will dynamically release information on the salaries of skilled personnel, make explorations on establishing category-based guidelines for minimum wages for skilled professionals, guide enterprises to gradually improve the pay and benefits of skilled personnel, and enhance the attractiveness of skilled positions. We will strengthen the commendations and incentives for highly-skilled workers, select and set role models, and create a favorable atmosphere for skilled employment.

Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

One last question, please.

National Business Daily:

At present, flexible employment and new forms of employment have become an important method of employment and income growth for workers in China. What measures will be taken to protect the rights and interests of workers in flexible employment and new forms of employment? Thank you.

Li Zhong:

I would like to invite Mr. Lu to answer this question.

Lu Aihong:

Thank you for your question. Flexible employment and new forms of employment are important sources of employment. Strengthening the protection of the rights and interests of workers in flexible employment and new forms of employment is conducive to promoting decent work and high-quality and full employment for workers. In recent years, we have worked with relevant departments to improve systems and mechanisms, promote the implementation of policies, optimize public services, take diverse measures to resolve disputes, and advance the protection of the rights and interests of workers in flexible employment and new forms of employment. Next, we will continue to actively explore ways to improve policies and measures and continuously advance our work in this regard, which mainly includes the following four aspects:

First, we will continue to enhance the quality of employment services. We will implement policies and measures supporting flexible employment through multiple channels, strengthen the regulation of the odd-jobs market, improve services, boost the accessibility of job information for people in flexible employment, and support workers to find employment through multiple channels both online and offline. At the same time, we will improve training measures to support workers in finding employment and enhance their vocational skills. We will take steady steps to strengthen the provision of public services and improve the working and living conditions of workers.

Second, we will strengthen the employment guidance for enterprises. We will strengthen the publicity of laws and policies, as well as administrative guidance and supervision of employment, and continue to promote the implementation of relevant policies and measures. We will promote a series of guidelines for new forms of employment, guide platform enterprises and partner enterprises to sign labor contracts and written agreements with workers in accordance with the law, rationally determine labor remuneration, reasonably arrange working hours, and fairly formulate platform labor rules, so as to continuously enhance enterprise employment in accordance with laws and regulations.

Third, we will optimize and refine the social security system. At present, we have launched trials of occupational injury insurance for people in new forms of employment in seven leading platform enterprises in seven provinces and cities, covering a total of more than 9 million people. On the basis of our summary of these experiences, we will continue to improve relevant policies and expand the scope of the pilot scheme. At the same time, we will take active steps to ensure a smooth channel for people in flexible employment to access old-age insurance in the places where they work, and improve relevant measures, so as to facilitate access to insurance and benefits.

Fourth, we will ensure a smooth channel for labor dispute mediation. We will strengthen coordination with people's mediation and judicial mediation, and carry out one-stop joint mediation services for labor disputes in new forms of employment concerning work remuneration, rest and occupational injuries. At present, over 1,500 mediation organizations have been established nationwide. At the same time, we will also strengthen the joint supervision and inspection of departments, accept reports and complaints from workers in a timely manner, coordinate the handling of relevant conflicts and disputes, investigate and punish illegal activities that infringe upon the rights and interests of workers in accordance with the law, and effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of workers.

Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you Mr. Li, all the speakers and friends from the media. Today's briefing is hereby concluded. 

Translated and edited by Yan Bin, Huang Shan, Gong Yingchun, Liu Sitong, Yang Chuanli, Yuan Fang, Liu Jianing, Wang Yanfang, Xiang Bin, Wang Wei, Yan Xiaoqing, Mi Xingang, Yuan Fang, Li Huiru, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China (PBC)

Mr. Li Yunze, minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA)

Mr. Wu Qing, chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC)

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 24, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today, we are glad to have invited Mr. Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China (PBC); Mr. Li Yunze, minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA); and Mr. Wu Qing, chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC). They will brief you on financial support for high-quality economic development and answer your questions. Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Pan for his introduction. 

Pan Gongsheng:

Thank you, Ms. Shou. Good morning everyone. It's a pleasure to meet with you all again. I would like to sincerely thank you all for your continued interest in and support for the reforms and developments in the financial sector, as well as the work of the PBC.

This year, the PBC has remained committed to the fundamental goal of serving the real economy through financial services, while maintaining a supportive monetary policy stance. We made several major adjustments to monetary policy in February, May and July.

In terms of overall monetary policy, we have utilized a range of tools, including lowering the reserve requirement ratio (RRR), reducing policy interest rates, and guiding the decline of the loan prime rate (LPR), to foster a favorable monetary and financial environment.

In terms of monetary policy structure, we have focused on key areas of high-quality development, introducing re-lending programs for technological innovation and technical upgrading, while increasing financial support for technological innovation and equipment renewal. We have also reduced the down payment ratio and mortgage rates for home loans, lowered the housing provident fund loan rates, and established a re-lending program for affordable housing, using market-oriented methods to accelerate the reduction of inventory in the commercial housing market.

Regarding monetary policy transmission, we have reformed the way we calculate the quarterly value-added of the financial sector. The previous calculation method, which primarily relied on the growth rates of loans and deposits, has been replaced by an income-based approach. This reform aims to rectify and standardize practices such as manual interest adjustments and idle funds, thereby unlocking the potential of existing but inefficient financial resources, enhancing the effectiveness of fund utilization, and improving the efficiency of monetary policy transmission.

On the exchange rate front, we have upheld the market's decisive role in exchange rate formation, maintained flexibility, guided expectations, and kept the RMB exchange rate stable at a reasonable and balanced level.

The effects of our monetary policy have become increasingly evident. By the end of August, total social financing had grown by 8.1% year on year, and RMB loans had increased by 8.5%, outpacing nominal GDP growth by around 4 percentage points. Meanwhile, financing costs remain at a historic low.

In line with the central government's directives, the PBC will continue to uphold a supportive monetary policy stance, strengthen monetary policy regulation, and enhance precision in its execution to foster a monetary and financial environment conducive to stable economic growth and high-quality development.

I would like to take the opportunity of today's press conference to announce several new policies:

First, we will lower the RRR and policy interest rates, which will drive down market benchmark rates. Second, we will lower mortgage rates on existing home loans and standardize the minimum down payment ratio for mortgages. Third, we will introduce new monetary policy tools to support the stable development of the stock market.

First, lowering the RRR and policy interest rates. We will cut the RRR by 0.5 percentage point in the near term, providing approximately 1 trillion yuan in long-term liquidity to the financial market. Depending on liquidity conditions, we may further reduce the RRR by 0.25 to 0.5 percentage point this year. Additionally, we will lower the central bank's policy interest rate, reducing the seven-day reverse repo rate by 0.2 percentage point — from 1.7% to 1.5%. In addition, we will guide LPR and deposit rates downward in tandem, ensuring the stability of commercial banks' net interest margins.

Second, lowering mortgage rates on existing home loans and standardizing the minimum down payment ratio for mortgages. We will guide commercial banks to reduce interest rates on existing mortgages to a level similar to those of newly issued housing loans, with an expected average reduction of around 0.5 percentage point. The minimum down payment ratio for both first and second homes will be unified, with the nationwide minimum down payment ratio for second homes to be reduced from 25% to 15%. We will increase support for the 300-billion-yuan special refinancing program for affordable housing, launched in May, raising the central bank's funding support ratio from 60% to 100%, strengthening incentives for commercial banks and homebuyers. Additionally, in coordination with the NFRA, we will extend the expiration of two key policy documents — on operational property loans and the 16-point policy plan proposed in 2022 — from the end of this year to the end of 2026.

Third, introducing new monetary policy tools to support the stable development of the stock market. The first is creating a swap facility for securities, funds and insurance companies, enabling eligible ones to obtain liquidity from the central bank through asset pledges. This will significantly enhance their capacity to access funds and increase their stock holdings. The second is creating special re-lending for stock repurchases and shareholding increases, guiding banks to provide loans to listed companies and major shareholders to support these activities.

We will release the relevant policy documents or announcements on the PBC's website in the near future.

That concludes my introduction. Later, I will join Mr. Li and Mr. Wu to answer your questions. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Pan. Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Li for his introduction.

Li Yunze:

Thank you, and good morning everyone. It's a pleasure to meet you all. First, on behalf of the NFRA, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the media for your long-standing support and assistance in our financial regulatory work.

This year, the NFRA has firmly implemented the major decisions of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the State Council. We have taken proactive actions, faced difficulties head-on, and coordinated the promotion of three key tasks: preventing risks, strengthening regulation and promoting development. Solid progress has been made in all areas.

On risk prevention, we have concentrated on key areas and steadily advanced risk mitigation efforts, aiming to create a secure and stable financial environment for economic development. In line with the directives of the Central Financial Work Conference, we have actively promoted reforms and risk mitigation for small- and medium-sized financial institutions, preventing risks from spilling over or spreading. Currently, regions with a high concentration of high-risk institutions have formulated concrete reform and risk mitigation plans, which are being implemented prudently under a "one province, one policy" approach. At the same time, we have guided banks and insurance institutions to actively assist in resolving risks related to the real estate sector and local government debt. Currently, China's financial sector, particularly large financial institutions, is operating in a stable and sound manner, with risks under control. As risks associated with the real estate sector, local government debt, and small- and medium-sized financial institutions are gradually being resolved and alleviated, financial risks are steadily receding. We are committed to firmly maintaining the bottom line of preventing systemic financial risks.

In terms of strengthening regulation, we have focused on addressing both the symptoms and root causes of issues. By driving reform, we have tackled tough challenges and fostered compliance through regulatory frameworks, continually enhancing the sector's sustainability. We have guided the banking and insurance sectors to return to their core functions, refocusing on their primary business to achieve differentiated development and complementary strengths. We have advanced the introduction of a new 10-point guideline for the insurance industry, made timely improvements to asset management regulations, and continuously strengthened governance over non-banking institutions. Additionally, we have optimized and reinforced the foundational management of credit, aiming to resolve deep-seated issues that hinder the sustainable and healthy development of the industry. Financial institutions have been encouraged to streamline their operations, strengthen their core competencies, and actively respond to challenges such as narrowing net interest margins and losses from interest rate spreads. By concentrating on preventing substantive risks, we have effectively implemented the due diligence exemption system, while rigorously investigating and penalizing major illegal and non-compliant activities, creating a fair and just market order.

In terms of promoting development, we have focused on eliminating blockages and bottlenecks, improving the adaptability of the economy and finance and increasing financial services for key fields and weak links. We have strengthened financing guarantees for large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-ins of consumer goods and for implementing major national strategies and building security capacity in key areas, and vigorously supported the development of new quality productive forces in accordance with local conditions. As of the end of this August, loans to high-tech sectors as well as medium- and long-term loans to the manufacturing sector have increased by 13.2% and 15.9% year on year, respectively. We have scaled up micro and small loans, and increased support for private enterprises on an equal footing. Inclusive loans to small and micro enterprises and loans to private enterprises have increased by 16.1% and 9.1% year on year, respectively. We have guided insurance institutions to do their best to provide claims services for major accidents and natural disasters such as torrential rain and typhoons, helping people and business entities that are impacted overcome difficulties. In the first eight months of this year, the insurance industry has paid out a total of 1.55 trillion yuan in compensation, a year-on-year increase of 26.1%.

Next, the NFRA will actively strengthen communication with the market and our friends from the media, as well as respond to social concerns in a timely manner. Previously, Mr. Pan has shared with you relevant policy adjustments. I will have a more detailed briefing on the optimization and improvement of relevant regulatory policies in the Q&A session. We will strive to create a stable, transparent and predictable regulatory policy environment, continue effort and support to improve the quality and efficiency of serving the real economy and contribute more financial strength to high-quality development. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Li. Now, let's give the floor to Mr. Wu for his briefing.

Wu Qing:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning. First of all, I would like to thank you for your long-term concern and support for the capital market as well as the work done by the CSRC. To implement the guiding principles from the central financial work conference, the State Council in April of this year issued new guidelines for strengthening regulation, forestalling risks and promoting the high-quality development of the capital market. We have conscientiously implemented these policies, jointly formulated a series of supporting documents in coordination with relevant departments as well as have formulated and revised more than 50 institutions and rules, establishing a "1+N" policy system together with the new guidelines. An array of key measures are also under implementation, and initial progress has been achieved in strengthening regulation, forestalling risks and promoting high-quality development of the capital market.

First, the market ecology has been further improved. We have adhered to the principle that oversight must have "teeth and thorns" and be sharp-pointed. The General Office of the State Council has forwarded a guideline issued by the CSRC and five other central departments and ministries on how to further improve the comprehensive punishment and prevention of financial fraud in the capital market. By the end of August, 577 illegal cases in the field of securities and futures have been investigated and handled, especially some major cases such as the ones involving Evergrande Real Estate Group and CNNC Hua Yuan Titanium Dioxide. Working with the Ministry of Finance, we have strictly investigated and penalized the Evergrande Real Estate Group's auditing agency PwC, forming a strong deterrent.

Second, the underlying systems of the capital market are being improved at a faster pace. Institutions and rules for issuance, listing, dividends, reduction of holdings and trading have been optimized. The dividends of listed companies in 2023 reached 2.2 trillion yuan, hitting a record high. We have strengthened the regulation of program trading, further tightened the regulation rules for program trading and have suspended the securities relending business. We have deepened the reform of lowering fee rates for the public offering fund sector and have encouraged financial institutions to put functional construction first.

Third, market functions have been basically maintained. We have conquered many difficulties and have maintained the appropriate rhythm for IPOs and refinancing. The quality and efficiency of the filing-based management of overseas listing have continuously improved. The function of the bond and futures markets have been steadily exerted. In the first eight months of this year, the exchange bond market issued 8.9 trillion yuan of various bonds, maintaining steady growth.

Fourth, the reform and innovation of the capital market have been firmly promoted. We have focused on doing a good job in five areas of finance. A number of policy catalysts such as the sixteen measures for the capital market to serve the high-level development of technology enterprises and the eight new measures for the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR) have been issued and implemented. Relevant work to support the development of venture capital investment has been done well. We have made mergers, acquisitions and restructuring play better roles. Nearly 50 major restructuring cases have been disclosed in the market since May of this year, and the market response has been relatively positive.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made strategic arrangements for further deepening the capital market's reform. The CSRC will adhere to strengthening the foundation, strict regulation and management of the capital market, as well as will promote development and stability through reform, continuously improving the capital market's functions of investment and financing to better serve Chinese modernization. We will focus on three areas: First, we will give more prominence to the enhancement of the inherent stability of the capital market. We will establish a clear orientation of rewarding investors and improve the quality and investment value of listed companies. We will accelerate the reform of the investment side and promote the construction of a policy system for long-term investments. We will issue guidance for promoting the entry of medium and long-term funds into the capital market. We will also further improve the policy toolkit and ensure no systemic risks arise. Second, we will prioritize supporting the recovery and growth of the real economy and the high-quality development of the economy. We will focus on serving key areas such as new quality productive forces, make good use of various capital market tools, such as stocks, bonds and futures, and take multiple measures to activate the merger and acquisition market. We will also issue six measures to promote mergers and acquisitions. At the same time, we will work with all relevant parties to ensure the smooth flow of all sectors including raising funds, investing, managing and withdrawing of private equity and venture capital funds. Third, we will highlight the protection of small and medium-sized investors' legitimate rights and interests. We will resolutely crack down on illegal and irregular activities, such as financial fraud and market manipulation, and at the same time strive to establish more model cases in representative litigation and compensation in advance.

That is all for my introduction. I will continue the discussion with you later. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Wu. Now, the floor is open for questions. Please state the news organization you represent before asking your question. You may now raise your hands to be called upon.

CCTV:

We know that the PBC has implemented three major monetary policy adjustments this year. As Mr. Pan mentioned in the introduction, the PBC will continue to lower the reserve requirement ratio and policy interest rates in the coming stage. These policies on aggregates will play an important role in stabilizing growth, which people pay great attention to. Could you please give us more details in this regard? Thank you.

Pan Gongsheng:

Aggregates in monetary policy are also attracting great attention from all sectors of society and the market. I have said many times on different occasions that the PBC adheres to an accommodative monetary policy stance, intensifies the strength of monetary policy regulation and enhances the precision of monetary policy regulation. We have employed a combination of various monetary policy tools to support the stable growth of the real economy. In the process of designing monetary policy tool adjustments, the PBC has several important considerations: the first is to support the stable growth of China's economy; the second is about the price, which is also an important consideration in designing monetary policy tools--we must promote a moderate rebound in prices; the third is that we must take into account both support for the growth of the real economy and the health of the banking industry itself--there must be a good balance between the two parties; the fourth is the exchange rate--we must maintain the general stability of the RMB exchange rate at an adaptive, balanced level. Another point is that we pay attention to the coordination between monetary policies and fiscal policies, and support the proactive fiscal policy to work better and achieve results.

In my opening remarks, I mentioned several specific adjustments to macroeconomic policies and monetary aggregate policies. Now I will introduce them in detail.

First, we will lower the reserve requirement ratio (RRR). In February of this year, we cut the RRR by 0.5 percentage points. This time, the RRR is planned to be cut by another 0.5 percentage points, which can provide about 1 trillion yuan of long-term liquidity to the financial market. At present, the weighted average RRR for financial institutions is 7%. Among this, the current RRR for large banks is 8.5%, which will be reduced from 8.5% to 8% after this adjustment. The current RRR for medium-sized banks is 6.5%, which will be reduced from 6.5% to 6% after this adjustment. Rural financial institutions have been implementing a RRR of 5% for a few years now, and this time it will remain the same. After the implementation of the RRR reduction policy, the average RRR of the banking sector is about 6.6%. Compared with the central banks of major economies around the world, we still have room. In terms of the RRR tool, we may further lower it by 0.25-0.5 percentage points within the year, depending on the liquidity situation. 

Second, concerning lowering the policy rate, the interest rate on seven-day reverse repo operations is the major policy rate of the central bank at present. In July, we lowered the seven-day reverse repos rate from 1.8% to 1.7%. This time, it was trimmed by 20 basis points from 1.7% to 1.5%. Under the market-oriented adjustment mechanism on interest rates, the adjustment of the policy interest rate will lead to the adjustment of various market benchmark interest rates. It is expected that after the adjustment of the policy rate, the medium-term lending facility (MLF) interest rate is expected to drop by approximately 0.3 percentage points, and the loan prime rate (LPR) and deposit rate may decrease by 0.2 to 0.25 percentage points.

The adjustment of the interest rate has generally had a neutral impact on banks' net interest margins. Lowering mortgage rates for existing homes will reduce interest income for banks, but it will also reduce the mortgage prepayments of customers. The central bank's cutting of the RRR is equivalent to directly providing low-cost and long-term capital for banks' operation. The MLF and open market operations are the major ways for the central bank to offer short- and medium-term capital to commercial banks. Decreasing interest rates will also lower banks' funding costs. In addition, as mentioned earlier, it is expected that the LPR and deposit rates will have symmetrical reduction. Previously, we guided deposit rates downward several times through the interest rate self-regulatory mechanism, and the repricing effect will be cumulatively revealed. The repricing of deposit rates is slower than that of loan interest rates. Therefore, as deposit rates have been guided downward, the effect of repricing will be cumulatively revealed over time. As a result, in the design of the policy adjustment plan, the PBC's technical team has carried out several rounds of careful quantitative analysis and evaluation. The interest rate adjustment this time has had a neutral impact on banks' income and the net interest margin will remain basically stable. Thank you.

China Securities Journal:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improving the functions of the capital market to give balanced weight to investment and financing, and to facilitate the entry of long-term capital into the market. Relevant authorities have also been calling for and promoting long-term investment and value investment. What will be done next to better advance the entry of long-term capital into the market to promote balance between investment and financing? 

Wu Qing:

Let me answer this question. Long-term capital is indeed extremely important. Medium and long-term capital investment operations have a high degree of specialization and strong stability, which is of great significance for overcoming short-term market fluctuations and playing the role of "stabilizer" and "ballast" in the capital market. In recent years, the CSRC has vigorously advanced the development of public equity funds and has worked with relevant parties to promote the entry of medium- and long-term funds into the market, achieving some phased results. By the end of this August, the total A-share market capitalization held by professional institutional investors such as equity public funds, insurance funds and various pensions was nearly 15 trillion yuan, more than double that at the beginning of 2019, and the proportion of which in the A-share market increased from 17% to 22.2%. Among these, the National Social Security Fund is very prominent. Since its establishment, the average annualized rate of return of the National Social Security Fund has exceeded 10% in the domestic stock market, becoming an exemplar of long-term investment and value investment in the A-share market. 

At the same time, we also see that there are still prominent problems in the capital market. These include insufficient medium- and long-term funds, sub-optimal structure, the leading role has not been given full play, and the institutional environment for "long-term investment of long-term capital" has not yet been fully established. In order to implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and further remove the barriers that affecting the entry of the medium- and long-term capital into the market, with the strong support of relevant ministries and ministerial-level commissions, the CSRC and other relevant departments have formulated guidelines to promote medium- and long-term capital into the market, which will be issued in the near future. The guidelines include a series of arrangements to support the entry of medium- and long-term capital into the market, and it is believed that the institutional environment will continue to be optimized. In general, it focuses on the goal of "more long-term capital with longer terms and better returns" and further promotes the entry of medium- and long-term funds into the market. The soon-to-be-published guidelines give priorities to measures in three aspects:

First, we will strive to develop public equity funds. We will give priority to urging fund companies to further adopt the right approach to growing businesses, adhere to the orientation of investment return, improve investment research and service capabilities, create more products that meet the needs of the people, and strive to create long-term returns for investors. Recently, you may have also noticed that 10 new CSI A500 exchange-traded funds (ETFs) were approved, which have been very popular with the market and soon reached the limit for fundraising. Next, we will further optimize the registration of equity fund products, vigorously promote the innovation of index products such as broad-based ETFs, and launch more small- and mid-cap ETF fund products, including ChiNext and STAR Market in a timely manner, to better serve investors, the national strategy and the development of new quality productive forces. In addition, we will promote the steady reduction of the general rate of the public equity fund sector, which is also an issue that has been discussed a lot recently. We have now taken two steps, and there is still one step remaining. By steadily lowering the general rate, we can better benefit and reward investors.

Second, we will improve the institutional environment for "long-term investment of long-term capital." We will give priority to improving the inclusiveness of supervision over medium- and long-term capital equity investment, and fully implement long-term assessments of three-years and above. We will remove the institutional barriers to long-term investment of insurance funds and propel insurance institutions to be firm value investors, to provide stable long-term investment for the capital market. At the same time, we will guide the sound interaction between multilevel and multi-pillar aged-care social protection system and the capital market, improve the investment policy system for national social security funds and basic old-age insurance funds, and encourage annuity funds to explore different types of differentiated investment according to the different ages and risk preferences of holders.

Third, we will continue to improve the ecology of the capital market. We will give priority to taking multiple measures to enhance the quality and investment value of listed companies and improve the supporting institutional arrangements for institutional investors to participate in the governance of listed companies. At the same time, we will crack down on all kinds of violations of laws and regulations and foster a sound market ecology in which medium- and long-term capitals are "willing to come and stay and can develop well."

Next, we will work with relevant ministries and ministerial-level commissions as well as relevant units to step up efforts to ensure the implementation of all measures. Thank you. 

21st Century Business Herald:

Large commercial banks play a crucial role in the financial system. What measures will the financial regulatory authorities take in the near future to promote the prudent operation of large banks? In June, the State Council issued the "Several Policy Measures for Promoting the High-Quality Development of Venture Capital," which proposed expanding the scope of trials for equity investment of financial asset investment companies under large banks. What implementation measures have been adopted?

Li Yunze:

Thank you for your question. I will answer this one. As you just mentioned, large commercial banks are the mainstay of serving the real economy in the financial system and the ballast for maintaining financial stability. At present, the operation and development of large commercial banks is making steady progress, the quality of assets is stable, and major regulatory indicators are within a healthy range.

As you all know, capital is the basis for the operation of financial institutions and it is also the foundation for improving the capability to serve the real economy and the barrier to resist risks. In recent years, large commercial banks have mainly relied on their own profit retention to increase capital, but with the continuous increase in bank fee reductions and interest concessions, net interest margins have narrowed, and profit growth has gradually slowed. Therefore, it is necessary to coordinate internal and external channels to replenish capital.

In order to consolidate and enhance the ability of large commercial banks to steadily operate and develop, and give better play to their role as the mainstay in serving the real economy, after research, China has planned to increase the tier-1 capital of the six large commercial banks. This will be implemented in an orderly manner, utilizing an approach of "coordinated advancement, in tranches and batches, and one policy for one bank." We will also continue to urge large commercial banks to improve their refined management level and strengthen their capabilities to pursue high-quality development under capital constraints.

At present, indirect financing still occupies a dominant position in China's aggregate private financing, which means we need to embark on a development path for technology finance with Chinese characteristics, especially sci-tech innovation investment. In the early stages, financial asset investment companies under the large commercial banks have launched pilot projects for equity investment in Shanghai, exploring the path, gaining experience and training teams. The conditions for carrying out the pilot project on a larger scale have already been put in place. According to the relevant arrangements of the State Council, in order to give full play to the leading and driving role of the pilot projects and encourage the development of venture capital, we plan to take the following measures in three aspects: First, we will carry out pilot projects in more cities. We will work with relevant departments to expand the scope of the pilot projects from Shanghai to 18 large and medium-sized cities with vibrant sci-tech innovation activities such as Beijing. Second, we will relax restrictions. We will appropriately relax the restrictions on the amount and proportion of equity investment, increasing the proportion of on-balance sheet investment from the original 4% to 10%, and raise the proportion of investment in single private equity funds from the original 20% to 30%. Third, we will optimize the assessments. We will guide relevant institutions to implement the requirements that no one who has fulfilled their duties is held liable and establish and improve long-term and differentiated performance evaluations. Next, we will summarize our experience in a timely manner and continue to carry out pilot projects in more cities. At the same time, we will continue to optimize supporting policies and actively advance the implementation of more projects as soon as possible.

That is all from me. Thank you.

Reuters: 

Home prices are falling every month, and declines in home prices are in double digits in many Chinese cities, despite all the measures taken to attract new home buyers and to lighten the mortgage burdens of home owners. So, my question is: Have financial regulatory authorities reached the limits of monetary policy? Thank you.  

Pan Gongsheng: 

Thank you for your question. It's a very good question and one that is of widespread concern. Based on our responsibilities, we mainly support risk mitigation and the healthy development of the real estate market from a financial perspective. In recent years, the PBC has continuously improved macroprudential policies in real estate finance, taking comprehensive measures on both the supply and demand sides. This includes multiple reductions in the minimum down payment ratio for personal housing loans, lowering loan interest rates, removing the lower bound on interest rates, and establishing a relending policy to support the acquisition of completed commercial housing for affordable housing. In order to implement the central government's decisions and arrangements on promoting the stable and sound development of the real estate market, the PBC, along with the NFRA, has introduced five new financial policies for real estate.

The first policy is to guide banks to reduce interest rates on existing mortgages. Last August, the PBC encouraged commercial banks to orderly reduce interest rates on existing mortgages, and the results were fairly good. After the floor for mortgage rates was lifted nationwide on May 17 of this year, we removed the lower bound, which used to involve adjustments based on loan prime rate (LPR), and expanded the room for rate reductions on newly issued loans, leading to a significant drop in interest rates. This widened the interest rate gap between old and new mortgages once again, especially in large cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou. The original rates were relatively high. After the adjustments, the difference between the interest rates on newly issued and existing mortgages became even larger. In response, the PBC plans to guide banks to make bulk adjustments to interest rates on existing mortgages, lowering them to be closer to rates on new loans. We expect the average reduction to be around 0.5 percentage points. Since loans were issued at different times and rates vary across regions and banks, this is an estimated average reduction. Lowering the rates on existing mortgages will help reduce the interest burden on borrowers, benefiting estimated 50 million households or about 150 million people. This is expected to reduce the total annual interest payments by around 150 billion yuan for households, which will help boost consumption and investment, reduce early repayment behaviors and limit opportunities for the illegal replacement of existing housing loans. Thus, protecting the legal rights of financial consumers and supporting the stable and sound development of the real estate market.

We will officially release this policy document soon. Since it involves many borrowers, banks will need some time to make the necessary technical preparations, so it is expected that banks may not handle this immediately. I would advise people not to rush to the banks this afternoon. Moving forward, we are also considering guiding commercial banks to improve their mortgage pricing mechanisms, allowing banks and customers to negotiate dynamic adjustments in a market-based way.

The second policy is to unify the minimum down payment ratio for both first and second homes at 15%. To better support the essential need of urban and rural residents for a home to live in and their diverse demands for better housing, the minimum down payment ratio for personal housing nationwide will no longer differentiate between first and second homes, and will be uniformly set at 15%. After May 17, the minimum down payment ratio for first homes has already been 15%, while for second homes it was 25%. This time, we unify the down payment ratio for both first and second homes to be 15%. I would like to clarify two points here: Local governments can implement policies based on their own conditions, independently determine whether to adopt differentiated policies and set the minimum down payment ratio within their jurisdictions. Given the vast differences in real estate markets across cities and regions in such a large country, local governments can make differentiated arrangements on the minimum down payment ratio within the national baseline. The other point is commercial banks may negotiate with clients to determine the specific down payment ratio, based on an assessment of clients' risks and their own willingness. The 15% is just a minimum; banks may require a higher down payment based on their risk assessment, and some clients may choose to make larger down payments, such as 30%. Thus, this would be a market-based negotiation between the bank and the individual.

The third policy is to extend the deadlines for two real estate finance policy documents. Previously, the PBC and the NFRA issued two policies: the 16 financial measures and the operating property loan policy. Both of these have played a positive role in promoting the stable and sound development of the real estate market and resolving risks. The time-limited policy of extending existing financing for real estate companies and the operating property loan policy were originally set to expire on December 31, 2024. This time, we have decided to extend these two policies until December 31, 2026.

The fourth policy is to optimize the relending policy for government-subsidized housing. On May 17, the PBC announced the establishment of a 300-billion -yuan relending facility for government-subsidized housing. The facility guides financial institutions, in accordance with market-oriented and law-based principles, to support local state-owned enterprises in purchasing unsold completed commercial housing at reasonable prices for use as government-subsidized housing for sale or rent. This is an important measure to reduce real estate inventory. To further enhance market incentives for banks and purchasing entities, we are increasing the PBC's funding share in the relending program from 60% to 100%. Previously, for every 10-billion-yuan loan issued by commercial banks, the PBC provided six billion yuan in funding. Now, for every 10-billion-yuan loan, the PBC will provide 10 billion yuan in low-cost funding, accelerating the destocking process for commercial housing inventory.

The fifth policy is to support the acquisition of real estate companies' land reserves. In addition to allowing local governments to use part of their special bonds for land reserves, we are researching the possibility of allowing policy banks and commercial banks to provide loans to qualified enterprises for the market-based acquisition of land from real estate companies. It can help put idle land to better use and alleviate financial pressures placed on real estate companies. If necessary, the PBC can also provide relending support. We are currently working on this policy with the NFRA.

Thank you!

Beijing Youth Daily: 

Concerning small and micro enterprises, we have noticed that recently many support policies have been introduced for the financing of small and micro enterprises, and financial institutions have enhanced their efforts in providing services. The financing for small and micro enterprises has seen an increase in volume, an expansion of coverage and stable pricing. However, some of them have reported that they still face obstacles. Could you please share if the NFRA has any targeted measures in this regard? Thank you.

Li Yunze: 

Thank you for your question. Small and micro enterprises are connected to numerous households and are an important force in stabilizing the economy, promoting employment and improving people's livelihoods. In recent years, we have worked with the PBC to continuously strengthen policy guidance as well as coordinate efforts from diverse parties to improve the financial services for small and micro enterprises. By the end of August this year, the balance of inclusive small and micro enterprise loans nationwide had reached 31.9 trillion yuan, a fourfold increase compared to the end of 2017, with the average interest rate decreasing by 3.5 percentage points. To further address the financial obstacles faced by small and micro enterprises, the NFRA will take two main measures.

First, we will collaborate with the National Development and Reform Commission to establish a coordination mechanism for supporting small and micro enterprises in obtaining financing. This mechanism draws on the experience from the earlier coordination mechanism for real estate financing by setting up dedicated working groups at district and county levels. These groups will work on two fronts: On one hand, they will engage with companies, conducting extensive visits to thoroughly understand the operational status and actual difficulties of small and micro enterprises, focusing on comprehensively assessing their financing needs. On the other hand, they will work with banks, recommending small and micro enterprises that comply with laws and regulations, have genuine financing needs and maintain good credit records. Banks should respond promptly and, in principle, complete credit approvals within one month to ensure that loan funds directly reach small and micro enterprises, truly bridging the "last mile" in delivering financial support.

Second, we will optimize the policy for loan renewals without repayment of principal. In 2014, the former China Banking Regulatory Commission issued a loan renewal policy for small and micro enterprises, commonly known as "Document No. 36." This policy stipulates that eligible small and micro enterprises with ongoing financing needs can apply for loan renewals when their loans mature. This means they can secure continued financing without repaying the principal upon loan maturity, a service known as "loan renewals without principal repayment." This policy has been well-received by small and micro enterprises and has played a positive role in facilitating their financing. We will further optimize the policy in three aspects.

First, we will expand the scope of the renewal policy from a limited number of small and micro enterprises to include all such businesses. Any eligible small or micro enterprise with genuine financing needs and facing financial difficulties after loan maturity can apply for loan renewal support.

Second, we will temporarily extend the renewal policy to medium-sized enterprises for a three-year period. Specifically, working capital loans for medium-sized enterprises maturing before Sept. 30, 2027, can follow the renewal policy applicable to small and micro enterprises.

Third, we will adjust risk classification standards. Loans renewed for companies that operate legally, maintain continuous operations and have good credit records will not be downgraded in risk classification solely due to renewal.

To ensure effective implementation of credit support policies for small, micro and medium-sized enterprises, especially to address concerns among grassroots loan officers about granting loans to these businesses, the NFRA recently introduced a due diligence liability exemption system for inclusive financing. This system specifies situations where loan officers can be exempt from liability if they have performed due diligence, aiming to fully encourage their enthusiasm and initiative and establish a long-term mechanism where officers are confident, willing, able and proficient in providing loans.

That's all I have for now. Thank you.

Yicai:

At the beginning of this year, we saw the establishment of a new coordination mechanism for urban real estate financing. Could you provide an update on its latest progress and outcomes? What are the next steps and new measures being considered? Thank you.

Li Yunze:

Thank you for your question. Mr. Pan has already provided a comprehensive answer regarding this year's financial policies related to the real estate sector. The stable and healthy development of the real estate market is crucial for overall economic and financial performance, as well as the immediate interests of the people. In recent years, significant changes have occurred in the supply and demand dynamics of our real estate market. The continued slowdown in sales has led to tight liquidity for property companies, making it difficult for some sold, under-construction projects to be delivered on schedule. To address this issue, the NFRA has collaborated with the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development to establish a coordination mechanism for urban real estate financing. The key feature of this mechanism is its "city-focused and project-centric" approach, distinguishing risks associated with real estate company groups from those of individual projects. By leveraging the coordinating role of local governments, it places compliant, under-construction, sold projects on a "white list," guiding financial institutions to meet reasonable financing needs of these projects. This facilitates project completion and delivery, effectively safeguarding homebuyers' lawful rights and interests.

With joint efforts from all parties, the coordination mechanism has achieved positive results. To date, commercial banks have approved over 5,700 projects on the "white list," with approved financing reaching 1.43 trillion yuan, supporting the timely delivery of more than 4 million housing units. Driven by this mechanism, financial institutions are continuously expanding their support for the real estate industry. As of late August, we've seen positive growth in real estate development loans compared to the year's start, reversing the downward trend. Loans for real estate mergers and acquisitions and housing rental loans have increased by 14% and 18%, respectively, providing strong financial support for stable and healthy real estate market development.

Additionally, to actively support essential housing needs and demand for better housing, as Mr. Pan mentioned, we've worked with the PBC to guide local governments and financial institutions in adjusting relevant real estate financial policies based on local conditions. Moving forward, we'll collaborate with the PBC to promote a gradual reduction in existing housing loan interest rates, further decreasing residents' mortgage payments and enhancing their sense of financial well-being.

Next, we will resolutely implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council on real estate work. We'll further promote the effective implementation of the coordination mechanism for urban real estate financing to ensure we whitelist all eligible projects, grant all eligible loans, and fund all eligible companies. We are determined to overcome obstacles in housing delivery and promote the stable and healthy development of the real estate market.

Thank you.

Red Star News:

Currently, the market is closely watching mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and restructuring of listed companies. You mentioned the need for multiple measures to invigorate the M&A and restructuring market. Regulatory authorities have been promoting market-oriented reform of M&A and restructuring in recent years. What specific measures will the CSRC implement next to better stimulate efficiency and vitality in the capital market's M&A and restructuring? Thank you.

Wu Qing:

Thank you for your question. M&A and restructuring are indeed significant in the capital market. Supporting corporate M&A and restructuring to further promote effective resource allocation is a crucial function of the capital market. Particularly in the context of accelerating global industrial transformation and our country's economic structural upgrading, it's imperative to leverage the key role of corporate M&A and restructuring to aid industrial integration and enhance quality and efficiency. The new "Nine Measures" make important arrangements to invigorate the M&A and restructuring market. To further stimulate market vitality, the CSRC has formulated the Opinions on Deepening the Reform of the M&A and Restructuring Market for Listed Companies, based on extensive research and input from various parties. We adhere to market-oriented approaches to better utilize the capital market as a primary channel in M&A and restructuring. The main contents of the Opinions include:

First, we will strongly support listed companies in their transformation and upgrading towards new quality productive forces. The CSRC will actively support listed companies in conducting M&A and restructuring centered on strategic emerging industries and future industries. This includes cross-industry M&A aimed at transformation and upgrading, as well as acquisitions of unprofitable assets that help strengthen industrial and supply chains and enhance core technologies in key fields. These efforts aim to guide more resources and production factors towards new quality productive forces.

Second, we will actively encourage listed companies to strengthen industrial integration. China is the only country globally with a complete range of industrial sectors. However, we also see that some industries are large but not strong, and numerous but not of high quality. While supporting emerging industries, the capital market will continue to help traditional industries improve industrial concentration and resource allocation efficiency through restructuring. We will support the integration needs of listed companies by significantly streamlining the review process. Additionally, we will encourage private investment funds to actively engage in M&A and restructuring through mechanisms such as "reverse linkage" of lock-up periods.

Third, we will further enhance regulatory tolerance, a topic of ongoing market interest. While adhering to rules, the CSRC will respect market, economic, and innovation dynamics. We will increase our tolerance for matters such as restructuring valuations, performance commitments, horizontal competition, and related-party transactions based on actual circumstances to better optimize resource allocation through market mechanisms.

Fourth, we will make significant efforts to enhance transaction efficiency in the restructuring market. Currently, payment instruments available for restructuring are quite diverse, including cash, shares, and convertible bonds. Moving forward, the CSRC will support listed companies in using payment instruments such as installment issuance of shares and convertible bonds, staged payment of transaction prices, and phased supporting financing based on specific transaction needs. This will further improve transaction flexibility and fund use efficiency. Simultaneously, we will establish a simplified review procedure for restructuring, significantly streamlining the process, shortening review timeframes, and improving efficiency for eligible listed companies.

In addition, the role of intermediary agencies is crucial in driving mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and corporate restructuring. The CSRC will guide securities firms and other intermediary agencies to further enhance their service capabilities and fully leverage their expertise in trade matchmaking and professional services to help listed companies implement high-quality M&As and restructuring. The CSRC will also properly fulfill its supervisory duty in accordance with the law, cracking down on all violations of laws and regulations, effectively safeguarding market order in enterprise restructuring and ensuring orderly restructuring processes to protect the lawful rights and interests of small- and medium-sized investors.

This concludes my response. Thank you.

Market News International: 

The Federal Reserve cut rates by 50 basis points this month. Does this create room for further easing in China's monetary policy, and how will the People's Bank of China assess the impact of the Fed rate reduction on China's foreign exchange market?

Pan Gongsheng:

Thank you for your questions. Recently, major economies have adjusted their monetary policies. As we see, the depreciation pressures on the RMB have notably eased, and the currency has started to appreciate. On Sept. 18, the U.S. Fed cut interest rates by 50 basis points, marking the first rate reduction amid its interest rate hike cycle over the past few years. Meanwhile, central banks of several other countries have also cut their interest rates. For example, the European Central Bank (ECB) has reduced its interest rate twice since June, by a total of 50 basis points; the Bank of England (BoE) lowered rates by 25 basis points in August; and the central banks of Canada and Sweden also cut their interest rates. The monetary policies of major economies, except for Japan's central bank, have all shifted to a rate-cutting cycle, weakening the U.S. dollar's appreciation momentum. The dollar index has generally declined, decreasing by 3% since August and currently fluctuating at around 101. As the periodical divergence in monetary policies between China and foreign countries narrows, external pressures affecting the general stability of the RMB exchange rate have significantly eased. On Sept. 23, the RMB-to-U.S. dollar exchange rate reached approximately 7.05, reflecting a 2.4% appreciation since August.

The exchange rate reflects the comparative value of currencies and can be affected by multiple factors, including economic growth, monetary policy, financial markets, geopolitics and emergencies. All these elements can impact the exchange rate.

From an external perspective, uncertainties in the global environment and the U.S. dollar's trajectory persist. These are influenced by factors such as diverging economic growth among countries, geopolitical shifts, including the U.S. presidential election, and fluctuations in global financial markets.

Considering China's domestic situation, we believe the RMB exchange rate maintains a relatively stable foundation.

First, from a macroeconomic perspective, China's economic recovery and steady growth momentum are expected to further consolidate and strengthen. The strong monetary policy introduced by the PBC will support the real economy, boost consumption and enhance market confidence.

Second, China has maintained a basic equilibrium in its balance of payments. In the first half of the year, the ratio of the country's current account surplus to its GDP reached 1.1%, which is considered to be within a relatively appropriate range.

Third, the PBC and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) have placed great importance on the development of the foreign exchange market. This market has seen increasingly mature participants, more rational trading behaviors and significantly greater resilience. In the first half of the year, the proportion of import and export enterprises engaging in hedging reached 27%, while 30% of foreign trade in goods used RMB for cross-border settlements. These two figures don't overlap. Combined, they suggest that about 50% of Chinese enterprises involved in foreign trade and exports are relatively insulated from exchange rate risks. As the PBC has repeatedly stated, with the RMB exchange rate floating more freely, market participants should view rate fluctuations rationally. They should strengthen their "risk-neutral" philosophy and avoid speculation on exchange rate trends and unilateral movements. Enterprises should focus on their core business, while financial institutions should continue to provide sound services that support the real economy.

The PBC's stance on exchange rate policy is clear and transparent, with several key points: First, we uphold the market's decisive role in determining exchange rates while maintaining their flexibility. Second, we are strengthening efforts to guide market expectations. This includes preventing the foreign exchange market expectations from becoming unanimously one-sided and self-fulfilling. We also work to prevent exchange rate overshooting risks, maintaining the RMB's general stability within an appropriate and balanced range.

Thank you.

CNBC:

Analysts say that the reason why the Chinese government bond yield has declined is because of expectations that the economy will slow further and that monetary policy will ease. What is the People's Bank of China's view on this, and what measures do you plan to take? Thank you.

Pan Gongsheng:

The debate surrounding this issue has subsided recently. Previously, there was extensive discussion, and the PBC communicated frequently with the market in appropriate ways. The decline in the yield of China's government bonds was attributed to various reasons. For instance, the PBC used policy interest rates to guide the market toward lowering its rates; the issuance and supply of treasury bonds slowed; and some small- and medium-sized financial institutions in the market lacked risk awareness and swarmed to the market, creating the effect of herd flock and exacerbating the situation. Currently, China's long-term treasury bonds have a yield rate of around 2.1%. This is the result of market-oriented development, and the PBC respects the market's role. At the same time, this has undoubtedly created a conducive monetary environment for implementing proactive fiscal policies.

However, we must also recognize that interest rate risk is a crucial aspect of financial institutions' risk management. The case of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) is particularly instructive. As everyone is aware, this risk event reminds us that central banks need to observe and assess market risks from a macroprudential management perspective and take appropriate measures to mitigate and prevent risk accumulation. This is an essential responsibility of central banks.

Currently, as a key price indicator, the yield curves of government bonds still face problems such as insufficient long-end pricing and lack of stability. The central bank has issued risk warnings on the yields of long-term government bonds and strengthened communication with the market. These measures aim to prevent potential systemic risks of a one-sided decline in long-term government bond yields incurred by the effect of herd flock.

It is the central bank's responsibility to maintain a sound trading order in the bond market. Recently, the PBC identified several violations in the bond market such as price manipulation, account lending, and improper interest transfers. We will intensify investigations and penalties for violations of laws and regulations in the interbank bond market, disclosing findings to the public when appropriate. The National Association of Financial Market Institutional Investors (NAFMII) has already publicly released several cases. Ongoing investigations continue, and we will announce the results once they are completed.

In recent years, as China's financial market develop rapidly, the bond market has gradually improved in size and depth. Conditions have become increasingly suitable for the central bank to purchase and sell government bonds and issue base currency through the secondary market. I elaborated on our plans regarding this matter at the Lujiazui Forum on June 19. The PBC has already incorporated government bond purchases and sales into its monetary policy toolkit and has begun trial operations. The specific measures in this regard are fully transparent and have been published publicly on the PBC's website. We are also collaborating with the Ministry of Finance (MOF), jointly working on measures to optimize the issuance pace, maturity structure, and custody system of government bonds. The PBC's process of purchasing and selling government bonds in the secondary market will be progressive.

Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

We've noticed that the new "National Nine Articles" for capital market regulation published this year outlined specific requirements for listed companies to improve their investment value and strengthen market capitalization management. What measures will the CSRC take next to further these efforts? Thank you.

Wu Qing:

Thank you for your questions. Listed companies are the foundation of the market. The capital market will only prosper and thrive when listed companies create value for investors and continuously provide returns. The CSRC proactively supports listed companies in improving their operation efficiency and enhancing profitability. The State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC) also follows an approach of offering specific policies tailored to individual enterprises and intensifying oversight of the market capitalization management of listed central state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Listed companies must improve the transparency of information disclosure, enhance standards of corporate governance, strengthen investor communication, and reward investors via various measures such as dividend distribution and share buybacks. Since the beginning of the year, more than 95% of listed companies have held performance briefings. A total of 663 announcements on mid-term dividends have been made by these listed companies, with the expected dividend payout reaching 533.7 billion yuan. Over 1,500 companies carried out share buybacks, with an aggregated value exceeding 100 billion yuan.

To improve the quality of listed companies and enhance investment value, listed companies must take their responsibilities seriously. We've worked with relevant departments to formulate guidelines for market value management of listed companies, mandating compliance in accordance with the law. First, boards of directors must prioritize investor protection and returns, strengthening the foundation of market value management through improved operations, management, profitability, and core competitiveness. Second, listed companies are required to actively use market value management tools like mergers and acquisitions, equity incentives, and major shareholder share purchase to enhance investment value. Third, listed companies must establish regular buyback mechanisms, and qualified companies are encouraged to plan and reserve capital in advance. Fourth, persistently undervalued companies must develop and publicly disclose value enhancement plans with implementation assessments, creating market constraints. Fifth, major index constituent companies must take responsibility by establishing market value management systems, clarifying responsibilities and response measures, and regularly disclosing implementation actions. It's crucial to emphasize that while strengthening market value management, listed companies and relevant parties must improve compliance awareness and avoid market manipulation, insider trading, or other illegal and irregular activities under the guise of market value management.

We'll soon seek public input on the draft guidelines for market value management. At the same time, we're collaborating with relevant ministries to establish market-based incentives and restraint mechanisms for share buybacks by listed companies. This aims to stimulate intrinsic motivation among major shareholders, senior executives and other key stakeholders, further enhancing the investment value of listed companies. Thank you.

Cover News:

Insurance companies are important institutional investors in the capital market. Recently, the State Council issued opinions on strengthening supervision to prevent risks and promote high-quality development in the insurance industry, proposing to leverage the long-term investment advantages of insurance funds. What new measures has the NFRA taken to advance the pilot reform of long-term insurance fund investment and support participation in capital market development? Thank you.

Li Yunze:

Thank you for your question. The State Council has unveiled the "Ten Guidelines" to enhance the regulation and high-quality development of the insurance sector, providing a comprehensive and systematic strategy for the industry's advancement. China's insurance industry is ushering in a rare historic opportunity. It's likely that China's insurance market will continue to expand in the future, and the density and depth of insurance will continue to improve. Insurance capital, with its large scale, long-term nature, and stable source, naturally possesses the attribute of patient capital and will become an important value investor supporting the healthy and sustainable development of the capital market.

The capital market undoubtedly plays an important role in both financial stability and economic development. The NFRA has always attached great importance to the capital market and actively guided banks, insurance and asset management institutions to maintain its stability. Earlier, with the State Council's consent, we encouraged China Life Insurance and New China Life Insurance to carry out pilot projects, jointly establishing private equity investment funds and raising insurance funds to invest in the capital market. With a registered capital of 50 billion yuan, the fund has commenced operations and is progressing smoothly.

Going forward, we'll continue to support the sustained and sound development of the capital market. First, we'll expand the pilot reform of long-term investment of insurance funds, support other eligible insurance institutions to set up private securities investment funds, and further increase investment in the capital market. Second, we'll urge and guide insurance companies to optimize their assessment mechanisms and encourage long-term equity investments. Third, we'll encourage asset management companies and trust companies to strengthen their equity investment capacity, issue more long-term equity products, actively participate in the capital market, and cultivate and grow patient capital through multiple channels. Thank you.

Economic Daily:

Recently, Central Huijin Investment Ltd. has significantly increased its holdings of ETFs. What does the CSRC think about this? Thank you.

Wu Qing:

Thank you for your question. The capital market is highly transparent. As we've all seen, Central Huijin Investment Ltd. has been steadily increasing its holdings of ETFs, fully reflecting state investment institutions' strong confidence in the investment value of the A-share market. This has played an important role in stabilizing the market and boosting confidence. We've noticed that many domestic and foreign investment institutions and research firms also believe that the A-share market is currently undervalued, highlighting its investment value. The CSRC will work with relevant parties to further support Central Huijin Investment Ltd.'s efforts to increase its holdings and expand its investment scope, promoting investment in the stock market by various medium- and long-term funds, including Central Huijin. Just now, Mr. Li also talked about the relevant arrangements to support the entry of insurance companies into the market. We will also actively support all types of funds, including insurance funds, to increase their market participation and provide a better policy environment. We'll further strengthen our strategic reserves and work together to promote the steady, healthy development of the capital market. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

The press conference has been going on for an hour and a half. Due to time constraints, this will be the last question.

Financial News:

What are the main considerations for establishing securities, funds, insurance swap facilities, and special reloans to support listed companies' buybacks and increase the stock holdings of major shareholders? How will the central bank carry out these operations? Thank you.

Pan Gongsheng:

Thank you for your questions. To maintain the stability of China's capital market and bolster investor confidence, the PBC, in consultation with the CSRC and the NFRA, has pioneered two structural monetary policy tools to support the stable development of the capital market. This was done drawing on international experience and the PBC's own past practices. This marks the first time the PBC has innovated structural monetary policy tools to support the capital market.

The first tool is a swap facility for securities, funds and insurance companies. This supports qualified securities, funds and insurance companies, which will be determined by the CSRC and the NFRA based on specific criteria. These institutions can use their holdings of bonds, stock ETFs, CSI 300 constituent stocks and other assets as collateral to exchange for highly liquid assets such as government bonds and central bank bills from the central bank. Government bonds and central bank bills differ significantly in credit rating and liquidity compared to other assets held by market institutions. Many institutions have assets on hand, but liquidity is relatively poor under current circumstances. By exchanging with the central bank, they can obtain high-quality, highly liquid assets, greatly enhancing their ability to obtain funds and increase stock holdings. We plan the initial scale of swap facility operations to be 500 billion yuan, with potential for future expansion depending on the situation. As I discussed with Mr. Wu, if this goes well, we can consider additional rounds of 500 billion yuan or even a third 500 billion yuan. I think all these options are possible and open for consideration. The funds obtained through this instrument can only be used to invest in the stock market.

The second tool is a reloan program to support stock buyback and increased holding. This tool guides commercial banks in providing loans to listed companies and major shareholders for buying back and increasing holdings of listed companies' shares. In fact, share repurchases or increases by shareholders and listed companies are very common transactions in international capital markets. The central bank will issue reloans to commercial banks, providing 100% funding support at a 1.75% reloan interest rate. Commercial banks will lend to customers at about 2.25%, adding 0.5 percentage point, which is still very low. The initial quota is 300 billion yuan, and if this tool is used well, as I told Mr. Wu, we can add another 300 billion yuan or even a third 300 billion yuan. All of this is possible. However, we'll need to assess the market situation later. This tool applies to listed companies of different ownership structures, including state-owned, private and mixed-ownership enterprises. We don't distinguish between ownership structures. The PBC will work closely with the CSRC and the NFRA. We will also need market institutions' cooperation to implement this effectively.

Thank you all.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to our three speakers, and thank you to all the journalists for your participation. This concludes today's press conference.

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Yan Bin, Yuan Fang, Xu Kailin, Ma Yujia, Mi Xingang, Wang Yanfang, Zhang Jiaqi, Wang Qian, Zhu Baichen, Huang Shan, Yang Xi, Li Huiru, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Lu Zhiyuan, minister of civil affairs

Mr. Tang Chengpei, vice minister of civil affairs

Mr. Liu Xitang, spokesperson of the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) and director general of the General Office of the MCA

Mr. Wang Jinhua, director general of the Social Affairs Department of the MCA

Mr. Guo Yuqiang, director general of the Child Welfare Department of the MCA

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 23, 2024 

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Lu Zhiyuan, minister of civil affairs, to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also attending today's press conference are: Mr. Tang Chengpei, vice minister of civil affairs; Mr. Liu Xitang, spokesperson of the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) and director general of the General Office of the MCA; Mr. Wang Jinhua, director general of the Social Affairs Department of the MCA; and Mr. Guo Yuqiang, director general of the Child Welfare Department of the MCA.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Lu for his briefing. 

Lu Zhiyuan:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good afternoon. I am so pleased to meet with you to discuss civil affairs work. First, on behalf of the MCA, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your long-term concern and support for civil affairs.

Civil affairs work relates to people's livelihoods and connects with people's hearts. In recent years, civil affairs departments at all levels have thoroughly studied and implemented General Secretary Xi Jinping's important discourses on civil affairs work. Focused on better fulfilling our duties to safeguard basic livelihood, grassroots social governance and basic social services, we have adhered to a people-centered approach, prioritizing the protection of basic rights and interests of civil affairs service recipients, especially the most vulnerable groups. We regard public concerns as a barometer of our work and public satisfaction as a benchmark, striving to meet people's basic needs, provide a cushion for those most in need, prevent risks and promote development, thus driving new progress and achievements in various civil affairs tasks. These are reflected in the following aspects:

First, we have strengthened support to ensure people's basic livelihood and effectively guaranteed basic living essentials for various vulnerable groups who face difficulties. We have established a tiered and categorized social assistance system, using big data and other means to enhance dynamic monitoring of low-income populations and providing early warning and assistance in a timely manner. We have included migrant children in the national care and protection scope, providing rights and interests protection, daily care and support services for urban migrant children and rural left-behind children. We have also provided a slew of services to safeguard the upbringing, education and medical rehabilitation of orphans and uncared-for children. We have established a system of living subsidies for disabled individuals in difficulty and nursing subsidies for severely disabled individuals, providing timely assistance to those temporarily in difficulty. Our efforts aim to strengthen the safety net for ensuring the basic needs of vulnerable groups and make them feel the warmth of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the government as well as experience the superiority of the socialist system.

Second, we have developed basic social services and accelerated the improvement of our management levels in elderly care, work regarding administrative divisions, and marriage registration services. We have rapidly enhanced the elderly care service system. In response to the fundamental needs of the elderly, we have established a basic elderly care service system. We have stepped up efforts to increase nursing-type beds, promoting the integrated development of "elderly care services plus medical resources" to meet different medical and health care needs and actively develop rural elderly care services. We have fulfilled the coordination responsibilities for work related to aging, pushing for the improvement of social security, elderly care services and health support systems. Simultaneously, we have carried out a rural geographic naming campaign, advancing the mapping of rural place names and the online promotion of agricultural products and contributing our efforts to comprehensive rural revitalization. We are optimizing marriage registration services and have launched a pilot program to provide inter-provincial marriage registration services in 21 provincial-level regions nationwide, offering greater convenience to the public.

Third, we have taken innovative means to improve grassroots social governance, actively leveraging the roles of both social organizations and charitable forces. We support the establishment of technology and service-oriented social organizations, optimizing the structure of social organizations. The total number of various social organizations nationwide has reached 883,000. We guide social organizations to offer pairing-up assistance for 160 key counties included in a national rural revitalization plan. We guide industry associations and chambers of commerce to serve high-quality development. We implement the Charity Law, guiding charitable forces to actively participate in supporting the weak and needy, aiding the elderly and orphans as well as providing relief to the sick and disabled. This year, various charitable organizations have donated nearly 3 billion yuan ($424.52 million) in funds and goods to key disaster-stricken provinces, strongly supporting disaster relief, recovery and rebuilding efforts.

On the new journey, we will use Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era as guidance, thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, comprehensively deepen reforms in the field of civil affairs, and focus on effectively solving the issues of "availability" while making significant efforts to address the questions of "quality" and "excellence." We strive to write a new chapter in the high-quality development of civil affairs, better serving and advancing Chinese modernization. 

That's all I want to introduce. Now, my colleagues and I will answer your questions. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Lu, for your briefing. We will now proceed to the Q&A session. Please identify your news organization before posing your questions.

Hongxing News:

People with disabilities are a particularly vulnerable group that requires special care and attention. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee explicitly proposed improving the social security and service systems for people with disabilities. Could you please specify what reform measures the MCA will take to ensure support for the vulnerable under this new arrangement and new instruction? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

I would like to invite Mr. Wang Jinhua from our social affairs department to answer this question.

Wang Jinhua:

Thank you for your question. As you said, people with disabilities are a unique group that requires special attention and care. China is home to 85 million people with disabilities, over 38 million of whom have certified disabilities. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, continuous efforts have improved the living conditions and quality of life for people with disabilities. On the new journey, facing expectations for a better life that encompass both basic needs and development, spanning material and spiritual needs, we must implement the requirement set by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee to improve the "social security and service systems for people with disabilities." We'll take this as a key task to address shortcomings, strengthen weak points and enhance quality and efficiency, providing more stable and higher-level support for their well-being and public services. Based on civil affairs authorities' duties, we'll focus our efforts on four areas:

First, we'll continue to implement and improve the subsidy system for living expenses of people with disabilities in need and nursing costs for those with severe disabilities. This key welfare program is a pillar of China's social welfare system. As of August, it has benefited 11.91 million people with disabilities facing economic hardship and 16.07 million with severe disabilities. Next, we'll guide local authorities to refine the mechanism for adjusting subsidy standards, gradually increasing amounts to ease the burden on those in need, those with severe disabilities and their families. We'll streamline the application process through services like inter-provincial handling, complete online processing and proactive assistance, making it more accessible and efficient. We'll also strengthen supervision of subsidy issuance to ensure timely, full and error-free payments, ensuring every cent is used effectively.

Second, we'll strengthen the mental health welfare service system. Mental health issues significantly affect social stability and people's well-being. People with mental illnesses and their families often face considerable challenges due to these conditions' unique nature. In recent years, the Ministry of Civil Affairs has advanced the construction of mental health welfare institutions. Now, 141 such institutions operate nationwide, providing over 70,000 beds and greatly improving treatment, assistance and care for people with mental illnesses facing extreme difficulty. We're focusing on addressing gaps in these institutions in prefecture-level cities and high-demand counties, refining management and service standards, and enhancing service quality. Additionally, we're advancing an initiative to help people with mental health conditions integrate into society. The ministry has made arrangements to provide more equitable, accessible and continuous community rehabilitation services, facilitating their reintegration into society.

Third, we'll boost the rehabilitation assistive devices industry. This industry is foundational and service-oriented, essential for ensuring and improving the livelihood and well-being of people with disabilities. Our country has immense demand for rehabilitation assistive services and significant potential for industry growth. Moving forward, we will seize development opportunities, strengthen guidance for industry development, formulate development plans, step up industry promotion and application, and improve the construction of the service system. We'll refine networks for displaying, renting, cleaning, configuring and selling rehabilitation assistive devices. We'll also bolster the industry's capacity for independent innovation and enhance the technological and intelligent aspects of these devices to meet the diverse rehabilitation needs of people with disabilities.

Finally, we'll accelerate the improvement of relevant laws and regulations. We'll work to formulate policies for providing care to people with severe disabilities, focusing on addressing challenges faced by families relying on elderly individuals to care for disabled persons, those with elderly disabled individuals and households with multiple disabled members. We'll implement the Civil Code requirements to formulate guidelines on civil affairs authorities fulfilling guardianship duties for disabled adults, effectively safeguarding the rights of people with mental and intellectual disabilities. Thank you.

CCTV:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has made specific arrangements for deepening reforms in the civil affairs sector. What reform tasks have the civil affairs authorities undertaken? How will these be advanced going forward? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

Thank you for your questions. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has made specific arrangements for comprehensively deepening reforms in the civil affairs sector. These focus mainly on social assistance, children's rights protection, services for people with disabilities, addressing population aging, elderly care services, social organization management and charitable initiative development. We'll adhere to a people-centered approach, strengthen institutional building as our main task, focus more on problem-solving, and emphasize institutions and mechanisms, striving to improve four key systems.

First, we will refine our policies and systems. We will accelerate the formulation of policy documents to deepen the reform and development of elderly care services, promote the high-quality development of charitable initiatives, strengthen and improve the management of funeral services, and step up efforts to ensure welfare for children facing adversity. We will refine the top-level design in these areas and expedite legislation in fields including social assistance, elderly care services, and funeral services.

Second, we'll refine service-ensuring systems. We'll focus on providing inclusive services, meeting essential needs and cushioning those most in need. For service beneficiaries, we'll adapt to people's aspirations for a better life and strive to gradually expand support from special groups to a broader range of those in need within our means. Regarding service content, we'll shift from primarily providing financial and material support for groups with special difficulties to a balanced emphasis on both funding and services, as well as material and spiritual assistance. Simultaneously, we'll work on formulating the civil affairs development section of the 15th Five-Year Plan, address gaps in civil affairs service facilities, utilize idle resources effectively, and optimize service resource allocation.

Third, we will refine supervision and management systems. We'll expedite the formulation of policies, regulations, norms and standards in areas such as social organization management, charity development and elderly care services. We will also promote the establishment of a comprehensive interagency regulatory mechanism, using new tools like credit-based regulation and the "internet plus supervision" model. We'll intensify oversight of law enforcement, focusing equally on development and regulation to foster healthy growth in relevant sectors.

Fourth, we will refine social participation systems. We'll gradually shift from an approach that primarily relies on government resources to one that is government-led and actively leverages market forces and various social actors. We'll innovate our working methods, transitioning from traditional services to more law-based, standardized and digitally intelligent approaches, promoting high-quality development in civil affairs work.

Next, we will formulate and fully implement targeted policies and measures to achieve new progress and achievements in civil affairs reform. Thank you.

China Financial and Economic News:

In recent years, as China's urbanization has accelerated and large-scale population movements have occurred, a significant number of migrant and left-behind children have emerged. What has the MCA done to care for and protect these children? What further steps will be taken to better support their healthy growth? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

I would like to invite Mr. Guo to answer these questions.

Guo Yuqiang:

Thank you for your questions. Mr. Lu has already introduced the work done by civil affairs departments in the field of child welfare. Regarding the protection of rights and provision of care services for migrant and left-behind children, civil affairs departments have thoroughly implemented the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee, continuously creating a favorable environment for children's healthy growth. Our efforts have focused on four aspects:

First, we've refined our policy framework. We've collaborated with relevant departments to issue a series of policy documents, including guidelines for labor-intensive enterprises to strengthen care for rural left-behind children, opinions on leveraging expertise of social workers, guidelines on improving the care service system for left-behind children, and an action plan to enhance care and protection for migrant children. These documents provide a policy basis for ensuring care and protection for migrant and left-behind children.

Second, we've improved working mechanisms. With the approval from the State Council, we established a working group under the National Working Committee on Children and Women (NWCCW) to safeguard the rights of migrant and left-behind children. The group held plenary sessions to define departmental responsibilities clearly. We also convened a national conference on protecting the rights of migrant and left-behind children, outlining plans and arrangements for this work.

Third, we've launched two special initiatives. The first is a three-year campaign to improve care and services for rural left-behind children and children in difficult circumstances, aiming to enhance the overall quality of our work. The second is a campaign to enhance care and protection for migrant children, focusing on ensuring they have equal access to basic public services, family education guidance, and integration support in their places of residence.

Fourth, we've strengthened grassroots foundations. Civil affairs departments have guided child welfare supervisors and directors in conducting home visits, verifying information, and providing care services. We've also supported local authorities to improve facilities for assisting and protecting minors, enhancing their role in providing guardianship for children in need, training local staff, and encouraging social participation. These efforts have yielded significant results.

Next, we'll leverage the NWCCW's working group to safeguard the rights of migrant and left-behind children. We'll collaborate with relevant departments to mobilize various resources, establish systems, conduct solid work, and continuously improve care and services for these children. Thank you.

China Society News:

By the end of 2023, China's population aged 60 and above reached 297 million. What has the MCA done to actively respond to population aging and promote the development of elderly care programs? What are your plans for future work in this area? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

Thank you for your question. Actively addressing population aging is crucial to China's overall development and the well-being of millions. In recent years, the MCA has earnestly implemented a proactive national strategy in response to population aging, focusing on people's demands for elderly care services and accelerating the development of the elderly care service system. We've initially established an institutional framework for elderly care services, bringing four shifts in this area. First, we have shifted from providing services only for elderly people with special difficulties to services for the entire elderly population. Second, we have shifted from a model with the government mainly responsible for the supply of elderly care services to a new model with diverse participation from the government, market, and society. Third, we have shifted from providing mainly institution-based elderly care services to coordinating home, community, and institutional care. Fourth, we have shifted from meeting people's basic living needs and providing daily care services to providing quality services that integrate both medical and health care.

Population aging is a reality China must face squarely on its path to modernization. While challenges exist, this demographic shift also presents opportunities. Moving forward, we'll follow the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee, earnestly implementing a proactive national strategy to address population aging. We'll integrate concepts of positive aging and healthy aging into all stages of economic and social development, enhance elderly care efforts, and promote high-quality development of elderly care services.

In the area of work on aging, we will meticulously carry out the functions of the Office of the National Working Commission on Aging in terms of comprehensive coordination, supervision and organization, so that we can enhance overall work coordination in response to the aging of the population. We will improve the mechanism for implementing the national strategy for addressing population aging, compile and execute plans on the development of aging programs, continuously refine the social security system, elderly care services and health support, building an elderly-friendly society. We will ensure funds, services and institutions to safeguard support, care and fulfillment for the elderly. Focusing on pressing difficulties and problems that concern the elder jointly with relevant departments, we will concentrate efforts to bring about concrete welfare to the elderly in terms of preferential policies, entertainment, law support, volunteer services, technological facilities and financial benefits. In terms of elderly care services, we will mainly focus on four aspects:

First, we will improve the elderly care service network. Just as there are schools for education and hospitals for health care, corresponding institutional facilities and networks are also necessary for elderly care services. We will prioritize the construction of integrated elderly care service platforms in counties and districts, regional elderly care service centers in towns, townships and urban sub-districts as well as elderly care stations in villages and communities, so as to build a three-tiered elderly care service network that spans counties (districts), towns and townships (urban sub-districts), and villages (communities). In other words, we will comprehensively establish an overall network for elderly care services. 

Second, we will optimize the service supply layout. In response to the habits and preferences of the majority of the elderly who prefer to live at home, we will establish good community elderly care services. We will provide home-based services assisting the elderly living at home with meals, bathing, cleaning, mobility, medical care and emergency, thereby consolidating the foundational status of home-based elderly care services. Focusing on the needs of the elderly and leveraging the supporting role of community elder care, we will develop service projects such as daytime care, senior dining rooms and rehabilitation nursing, so that the elderly can enjoy their retirement right at their doorsteps. We will also harness the professional supporting role of elder care institutions, leveraging their functions in innovative demonstration, service skills training and equipment promotion and application, as well as enhance care services for disabled and incapacitated elderly people. This will create a coordinated and aligned supply structure for elderly care services covering the levels of home, community and institutions.

Third, we will promote the coordinated development of the elderly care service programs and industries. We will fully harness the roles of a capable government, an effective market and a compassionate society to form a virtuous cycle where programs drive the industries and the industries support the development of the programs. We will support and cultivate specialized, branded and chained market entities in elderly care services, expand consumption on elderly care services, and develop and strengthen the silver economy.

Fourth, we will strengthen comprehensive supervision on elder care services. We will strengthen supervision over the quality and safety of elderly care services and improve regulatory systems and rules for emerging areas such as home-based and community-based services, integrated medical and elderly care services, assisted catering services and retirement communities. We will enhance the development of elderly care service standards, promote openness and transparency in elderly car service projects, processes and pricing, and assure the elderly with quality services.

Through the concerted efforts of society as a whole and the effective implementation of the national strategy for addressing population aging, by 2035 China's elderly care service system with Chinese characteristics will be mature and well-established. The majority of elderly people will enjoy basic elderly care services, share the benefits of economic and social development and live a happy life in their twilight years. Thank you!

China News Service:

The establishment of senior dining rooms in residential areas has addressed the dining difficulties of many elderly people, especially those who are advanced in age and live alone. Could you please provide an overview of the progress and achievements in the deployment of assisted catering services for the elderly since its inception, and share your plans for further advancement? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

I'll leave this question to Mr. Tang Chengpei.

Tang Chengpei:

Thank you for the question from China News Service. As you mentioned earlier, assisted catering services are among the top needs of the elderly. Some elderly people, especially those who are advanced in age, empty-nesters, live alone or are incapacitated, face difficulties in cooking and dining. This is a concern for the elderly themselves, their families and society at large. As Mr. Lu Zhiyuan mentioned earlier, the CPC Central Committee attaches great importance to assisted catering services for the elderly. Last October, the executive meeting of the State Council reviewed and approved an action plan to promote the development of meal services for the elderly, which this year has been included in the National Working Commission on Aging's list of elderly-oriented livelihood initiatives. Civil affairs departments at all levels have organized and implemented these initiatives, and positive results have been achieved in assisted catering services for the elderly.

First, supportive policies have been accelerated. This year, the central government has allocated 300 million yuan in guidance funds to support the development of assisted catering services for the elderly. Based on their own financial capacity and actual conditions, various regions have provided preferential measures for assisted catering services for the elderly and supportive policies for service enterprises and operating entities. At the same time, they have encouraged public welfare and charitable organizations, as well as philanthropic enterprises and individuals, to actively participate by providing support through government subsidies, corporate discounts and social donations.

Second, the service network has been continuously expanded. Based on local conditions, various regions have issued assisted catering services work plans and supporting measures. By expanding the functions of elderly care service institutions, integrating and utilizing idle community resources and renovating existing facilities, new dining rooms for the elderly have been established, and the assisted catering service network for the elderly has been expanded. In some places, a 15-minute assisted catering service circle for the elderly has been formed, allowing the elderly to enjoy convenient assisted catering services right at their doorsteps.

Third, the model of assisted catering services for the elderly has been increasingly enriched. In the practice of providing services for the elderly, different places have developed the model of "elderly care institutions plus assisted catering services" in accordance with local conditions. In the past, the catering service offered by elderly care institutions only served the elderly within these institutions. Now through the expansion of functions, these institutions can provide assisted catering services to the elderly living in society, making better use of existing resources. There are also the models of "social catering plus entrusted services," "community canteens plus dining tables for the elderly," "central kitchen plus professional delivery," "online platform ordering plus offline delivery," "dining tables plus desks" and other models. In some elderly canteens, tables are used for meals during dining times and then become desks where elderly people can learn about health and elderly care. All these have offered a wide variety of options for elderly people.

Fourth, quality and safety have continued to be strengthened. All localities have made efforts to promote the development of standardized, procedure-based assisted catering services for the elderly as well as advance the application of information technology within these services. A coordinated mechanism for supervision has been established where the Ministry of Civil Affairs takes the leading role, multiple departments participate and local governments take on jurisdictional responsibilities. Supervision and inspection have been strengthened. To ensure the safety of assisted meals, food safety must first be safeguarded. It is necessary to ensure that every bite of food is safe for the elderly.

Overall, positive results have been made in developing assisted catering services, which are popular among older people. Next, we will conscientiously implement the decisions and plans of the Party Central Committee and the State Council by increasing the coverage and improving the quality and effectiveness of assisted catering services for the elderly in an orderly manner.

First, we will further improve policies and measures. We will adhere to a combination of attributes from public welfare and market mechanism, as well as will prioritize the function of assistance and work with relevant departments to improve and implement supportive policies, focusing on serving the catering needs of those advanced in age, empty nesters, those living alone, those incapacitated and those facing other special difficulties in order to help market entities reduce costs and increase efficiency, so as to achieve sustainable development.

Second, we will further strengthen category-based guidance. Based on the needs of the elderly and respecting their wishes, we will follow a fact-based approach to set goals and implementation procedures that are in accordance with local conditions, steadily expand the service network and improve service capacity.

Third, we will further promote experience and models. We will guide all localities to make good use of the central government's guiding funds, strive to set up a batch of high-quality venues offering assisted catering services and service brands, cultivate a batch of specialized, chained and large-scale institutions, create more perceptible, accessible and sustainable models, and do more practical work to develop assisted catering services, so as to deliver benefits to the elderly. Thank you!

Cover News:

In recent years, many social organizations have become active in social governance at the primary level, playing an important role. What work has been done by the Ministry of Civil Affairs with promoting the role of social organizations in contributing to high-quality development? What achievements have been made? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

We will have Mr. Liu Xitang, director general of the General Office of the MCA, answer these questions.

Liu Xitang:

Thanks to this reporter for their questions. Social organizations are an important force for the advancement of socialist modernization. In recent years, the Ministry of Civil Affairs has given top priority to the key task of advancing high-quality development, has taken solid steps to carry out registration and management of social organizations and has guided and encouraged social organizations to take on responsibility, exceling in their work. I can summarize the contributions in four aspects:

The first contribution is to scientific and technological innovation. In response to major national strategies, we actively cultivate and develop scientific and technological social organizations in order to form a dynamic force for building a strong scientific and technologically advanced country. At present, there are about 24,000 social organizations actively participating in the key fields of science, technology and research, of which 530 are registered in the Ministry of Civil Affairs such as the China Association of Agricultural Science Societies and the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association. These are all scientific and technological social organizations that have relatively long histories and play prominent roles. We have conscientiously conducted annual inspections, evaluations and trainings to promote the internal governance of scientific and technological social organizations, improve service capabilities and to gather strength for the achievement of greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology.

The second contribution is to economic development. Modern economic and social development depends on industry associations and chambers of commerce. We have made plans for and carried out special actions for industry associations and chambers of commerce to provide high-quality development, propelling over 100,000 industry associations and chambers of commerce nationwide to be good assistants to the government, good helpers to enterprises and good promoters for the industry, thus contributing to China's economic development with practical actions. According to incomplete statistics, since 2023 industry associations and chambers of commerce at all levels have put forward nearly 65,000 policy recommendations to relevant government departments, provided about 1.7 million consulting services, held about 71,000 exhibitions, expositions and fairs, and have helped enterprises to match up about 33,000 investment attraction projects.

The third contribution is to rural revitalization. Just as Mr. Lu mentioned, we have worked with relevant departments to carry out special campaigns for social organizations to contribute to rural revitalization, mobilizing and guiding willing and capable social organizations to pair up with 160 key counties designated to receive assistance with pursuing rural revitalization. Up to now, we have guided social organizations of various types and at all levels nationwide to participate in the implementation of nearly 30,000 rural revitalization projects, with an investment of more than 35 billion yuan. We have also carried out projects for the central government to support the participation of social organizations in social services for 10 consecutive years. With a continuous investment of 1.7 billion yuan, we have supported social organizations to launch over 3,800 social service projects focusing on underdeveloped regions since 2012.

The fourth contribution is to international cooperation. We have encouraged the establishment of a large number of international science and technology organizations in China, such as the International Panel of Mesoscience (IPM), support international science and technology organizations to expand international science and technology exchange and cooperation, and have engaged in global science and technology governance. For example, work done by the Global Energy Internet Development Cooperation Organization has covered 142 countries and regions, with nearly 60 international cooperation agreements already signed and more than 50 international conferences held. The Belt and Road Initiative International Green Development Coalition has supported the implementation of projects such as the Green Silk Road Envoy Program and, in 2023, provided training to over 3,000 people in more than 120 developing countries.

Next, we will work with relevant departments and continue our efforts with the cultivation and guidance of social organizations as well as their regulation and management, so as to enable social organizations to better serve the country, society, the public and the industry. Thank you.  

China Daily:

Recently, we've noticed that the Ministry of Civil Affairs has been carrying out a rural geographic naming campaign , which enables many small streets, alleys and small shops located in the countryside to be searchable on mobile phones' map services. Can you talk about this in detail? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan:

We will have Mr. Tang Chengpei answer this question.

Tang Chengpei:

Thanks to the reporter from China Daily for your question. Names of places in rural areas are a "data base" for rural governance and basic information for urban-rural exchange, carrying local citizens' beautiful nostalgia and inheriting local histories and cultures. With the in-depth implementation of a rural revitalization strategy, the production, livelihood and ecological space of rural areas have been continuously optimized, which has put forward higher requirements for quantity density, standardization and cultural inheritance of rural places' names. The Ministry of Civil Affairs has thoroughly implemented strategic plans made by the Party Central Committee with advancing all-round rural revitalization; has focused on the problem of insufficient construction for rural geographical names; has learned from and applied experiences gained from the Green Rural Revival Program in Zhejiang province; and has launched the rural geographic naming campaign. Just now, Mr. Lu also mentioned this work. 

The place-naming campaign encompasses both the tasks of naming places and setting up signs, as well as the goal of helping previously less-known places gain fame. It leverages the collecting and mapping of place names to drive advancements in place naming, installing place name signs, cultural preservation, information services and application empowerment. We actively utilize the inherent value and historical significance of place names to foster high-quality rural development. Since its inception last year, this initiative has been rolled out nationwide, producing substantial outcomes.

In terms of modernizing rural governance, the network of rural place names has expanded significantly. As of August, 430,000 rural place names had been standardized nationwide, with 330,000 rural place name signs installed and 14.42 million building and door plaques affixed. Issues such as places without names and multiple names for a single place in rural areas have been continuously addressed. Some areas have promoted creating maps for villages, so that visitors can look up directions on maps instead of asking around. Some areas have implemented QR code signs, which enable bill payments and administrative services online, making rural life more convenient and modern.

Regarding the cultivation of good social civility, the cultural value of good place names continues to be highlighted. Thanks to geographic names, we can find our way home, so they are not to be forgotten. They also offer a means for our cultural heritage to be passed down through generations, and this carrier of cultural inheritance shouldn't be interrupted. We fully leverage the unique advantages of place names in preserving historical culture and local customs and pay attention to the cultural connotations of newly created rural place names. Many regions have created place names that reflect cultural heritage, national spirit, and contemporary style. These names reflect the era's charm. We also prioritize protecting old place names. Twenty-three provinces have established systems for place name protection inventories, with over 30,000 traditional rural place names now under protection, safeguarding our collective spiritual heritage. 

Place names continue to play a key role in boosting industrial revitalization. We've guided internet map platforms to present correct and consistent names of over 9 million rural places and mobilized the public to discover more than 800,000 points of interest based on map place names, such as agritourism sites and picking gardens. Related navigation services have been used for more than 10 billion times. Rural residents now enjoy convenient transportation navigation. The use of these maps also facilitates backpacking, self-driving tours, and the delivery of both parcels into villages and rural goods to urban areas, serving the two-way flow of urban-rural resources. Various regions have explored the brand value of geographic names, creating agricultural products branded with local names. Place names are now deeply integrated with rural e-commerce, platform economies and agritourism development.

In supporting ecological conservation, the foundational role of place names continues to strengthen. In provincial border regions and western areas, the names of natural geographic features are a key focus of the rural place-naming campaign, addressing the issue of many places left unnamed and a lack of standardized place names in ecologically fragile areas. We have intensified efforts to name mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes, grasslands, and sands. By establishing inter-departmental data co-construction and sharing mechanisms, we're providing fundamental support for environmental protection.

Moving forward, we will further implement the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We'll focus on strengthening the foundation for place-naming, innovating ways of using the names, building up reputations of places by showing their distinctive features, and shaping famous brands. This will fully demonstrate and spread the value of rural place names, and let people know that our beautiful villages are worthy of their good names, thus promoting rural revitalization. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli: 

Please continue with your questions.

N Video from Nanfang Metropolis Daily:

In recent years, public interest, discussion and participation in philanthropy and charity have been rising. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasized supporting the "development of public interest activities and charities." What measures will the MCA take to promote charitable development? Thank you.

Lu Zhiyuan: 

I would like Mr. Liu to answer this question.

Liu Xitang: 

Thank you for your question. As you mentioned, public interest in philanthropy and charity is growing. To date, over 15,000 charitable organizations have been registered nationwide, playing a significant role in rural revitalization, education, culture, healthcare, ecological conservation and emergency response. Looking ahead, we'll focus on implementing the Charity Law and maintaining a balanced approach to promotion and regulation. We aim to enhance the high-quality development of philanthropy and charity through three main strategies.

The first strategy involves strengthening our institutional framework. As you know, the revised Charity Law took effect on Sept. 5 this year. The MCA is developing complementary policies. We've already implemented three key regulations: Measures for the Management of Personal Assistance Online Service Platforms, Measures for the Administration of Charitable Organizations' Fundraising from the Public, and Measures for the Accreditation of Charitable Organizations. The first measures were newly established, providing clear guidelines for related platforms for the first time. The other two measures contain revisions to optimize the requirements for applying for public fundraising qualifications, standardize public fundraising activities, and refine the criteria for accreditation of charitable organizations. We plan to formulate or revise eight regulatory policies related to the management of charitable organizations, charitable trusts, management of public fundraising platforms, and information disclosure. Additionally, we will develop policy documents to advance the high-quality development of philanthropy in the new era. Mr. Lu has also mentioned initiatives such as the proposed amendments to the Regulation on Foundation Administration. Through these comprehensive efforts, we aim to establish a solid regulatory framework for philanthropic activities.

Second, we will enhance supervision of charitable activities. Transparency and credibility are the cornerstones for the development of charity. Recently, the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) has conducted two main tasks: First, we have advanced a sunshine-themed project to offer guidance and supervision for all kinds of charitable organizations to disclose information thoroughly and faithfully in accordance with related laws and regulations. Second, we have planned and carried out a special action to fully identify and remedy management loopholes and hidden risks of charitable organizations, further regulating their behaviors and improving ethics within the charity field. In addition, we will work with relevant departments to quickly establish a comprehensive supervision mechanism to promote the healthy development of the charity industry. 

Third, we will improve the mechanism for guidance and support. We will fully leverage means such as the Charity Day of China commendations in order to promote Chinese traditional moral values and disseminate modern concepts regarding charity. Especially, we will work with relevant departments to implement favorable tax policies and measures providing incentives and support, constantly innovating and broadening channels for charity engagement. We will vigorously develop community charity to meet the requirements of the newly revised Charity Law. We will explore ways to develop charitable trusts and regulate the development of online charity, among others. We will guide and support willing and capable enterprises, social organizations and individuals to actively take part in charitable work, thus creating an environment of full public participation. 

The ninth Charity Day of China was marked on Sept. 5 of this year. Under the theme of "upholding moral values and conducting and developing charitable work lawfully," we held colorful promotional activities nationwide, with many media outlets providing in-depths coverage. For this, please accept my gratitude. Thank you! 

Shou Xiaoli:

One last question. 

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine: 

Social assistance forms an important part of the social security system. Please update us on the work done to improve the social assistance system and ensure basic living for people in difficulty. Also, what will future work focus on? Thank you. 

Lu Zhiyuan:

Thank you for your questions. I will answer them. People pay much attention to social assistance, because it is an important part of the duty of civil affairs departments to secure citizens' basic living. It is also an important institutional arrangement for solving problems for those in difficulty, improving well-being and boosting social harmony. In recent years, the MCA has implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, focusing on the goal of improving the urban-rural coordinated, multi-tiered and categorized support system. We have continued to improve the institutions, innovate the mechanisms and ensure the implementation of all work, providing a safety net for ensuring the basic needs of the people in difficulty. We mainly have made efforts in the following aspects to ensure social assistance.

First, we have focused on ensuring basic living, creating a multi-tiered assistance framework to enable fuller coverage. We are expediting the building of a dynamic monitoring platform for the country's low-income population, improving the system of indicators for monitoring and early warning as well as gathering changing information regarding low-income individuals. Besides determining who is eligible for subsistence allowances and who live in extreme difficulty, we also have made thorough efforts to identify families on the verge of needing subsistence allowances and families facing difficulties due to necessary and unavoidable expenses, thus establishing a framework that offers multi-tiered assistance according to the level of difficulty encountered. 

Second, we have focused on making precise efforts and offering targeted assistance. We are enhancing information sharing with relevant departments. By comparing data, especially by integrating big data and field visits to gather information, we strive to pinpoint people eligible for policy support, supplementing the traditional approach where people apply for policy support. We are improving the mechanism for checking family economic situations and working to connect information checking systems across the country. We are guiding local governments to address weaknesses and implement special assistance in the fields of medical care, education, housing and employment, accurately matching supply and demand of assistance to effectively deliver assistance and support. Meanwhile, we are piloting service-oriented social assistance, improving the mechanism for aligning government assistance and charitable support to better meet the multi-tiered, differentiated needs for assistance. 

Third, we have focused on delivering solid results, fully leveraging the advantages of our systems to achieve synergy and efficiency. We have let the coordination mechanism of the joint conference on social assistance fully play its role and have effectively coordinated assistance resources between departments, pooling efforts to provide assistance. We have guided local governments to establish and improve a working mechanism where different departments offer categorized assistance and support to eligible people recognized by civil affairs departments. For example, human resources and social security departments provide employment related assistance. Education departments provide education assistance, and healthcare security departments provide assistance related to medical care. We have set up a working mechanism for helping low-income individuals, enabling unified information documentation, dynamic monitoring, tiered management, targeted policy and resources delivery as well as categorized support and results feedback. We have created separate assistance chains for each household or person, making assistance lists and boosting the well-being of people in need through support from different channels. 

We will continue to deepen reforms in social assistance, advance related legislation and establish and improve a social assistance system with Chinese characteristics that features full coverage, tiered and categorized support, resources coordination, comprehensiveness and high efficiency. We will enhance the dynamic monitoring and risk warning of low-income groups and set up a regular assistance and support mechanism, providing fuller and better support for people in difficulty through social assistance. Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Lu and all other speakers. Thanks to the reporters for participating. Today's press conference is hereby concluded. See you all. 

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Wang Wei, Zhang Jiaqi, Wang Qian, Li Xiao, Li Huiru, Wang Ziteng, Huang Shan, Xu Kailin, Ma Yujia, Liao Jiaxin, Liu Sitong, Yuan Fang, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Rao Lixin, deputy commissioner of the State Taxation Administration (STA)

Mr. Huang Yun, spokesperson of the STA and director general of the General Office of the STA

Mr. Dai Shiyou, director general of the Tax Policy and Legislation Department of the STA

Mr. Shen Xinguo, director general of the Taxpayer Service Department of the STA

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 20, 2024 

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Rao Lixin, deputy commissioner of the State Taxation Administration (STA), to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Huang Yun, spokesperson of the STA and director general of the General Office of the STA; Mr. Dai Shiyou, director general of the Tax Policy and Legislation Department of the STA; and Mr. Shen Xinguo, director general of the Taxpayer Service Department of the STA. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Rao for his briefing. 

Rao Lixin:

Thank you, Ms. Shou. Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good afternoon. First of all, I would like to sincerely extend my gratitude to the taxpayers, fee payers and all sectors of society for their long-term concern, understanding and support for taxation work. Today, my colleagues and I will discuss with you all the subject of promoting high-quality development through taxation.

Since the beginning of this year, under the strong leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the national tax system has resolutely implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. It has conscientiously fulfilled the responsibilities of tax departments, comprehensively deepened the rule of law in taxation, promoted digital and intelligent upgrades in tax management as well as enforced strict tax regulation. Efforts have been made to create efficient tax services, solidly advance the practice of modern taxation with Chinese characteristics and actively serve high-quality development. This is mainly reflected in four areas:

We are committed to helping enterprises develop by effectively implementing preferential tax and fee policies. Since the beginning of this year, the tax authorities have adhered to collecting tax and fee revenues according to laws and regulations, continuously deepening the "policy to person" approach. Relying on big tax data, they intelligently match preferential policies with applicable individuals and entities as well as carry out targeted policy pushes at specific times to 360 million entities and individuals, sending out 540 million pieces of various preferential tax and fee policy information and ensuring that structural tax and fee reduction policies are solidly implemented. Especially following last year's Central Economic Work Conference, this year's annual sessions of China's National People's Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), which emphasized focusing on supporting scientific and technological innovation as well as the development of the manufacturing industry, efforts have been intensified to implement relevant tax and fee support policies. From January to August of this year, the main policies supporting scientific and technological innovation and the development of the manufacturing industry have resulted in tax and fee reductions as well as tax refunds exceeding 1.8 trillion yuan, adding momentum for accelerating the development of new quality productive forces.

We adhere to the principle of putting the people first and continuously strive to enhance the level of tax and fee services. Focusing on "efficiently accomplishing one task," we have continuously implemented the "Spring Breeze Action to Facilitate Citizens' Handling of Tax Affairs." In 2024, we integrated and launched a series of service measures benefiting the public and enterprises. The new electronic tax bureau, with unified standards, has been launched nationwide, reducing the time for tax handling by 20% compared to the past and making tax and fee payments more convenient. We are steadily promoting the comprehensive digitalization of electronic invoices to further enhance taxpayer convenience with using invoices. Additionally, we are vigorously promoting innovative measures such as "reverse invoicing" from recycling enterprises to sellers of scrapped products, actively aiding in large-scale equipment upgrades and the renewal of consumer goods.

We uphold fairness and justice, vigorously maintaining economic and tax order. We continuously establish and improve a dynamic "credit + risk"-based regulatory mechanism, always adhering to law enforcement that is strict, well-regulated, fair and civilized. We avoid disturbing law-abiding businesses while cracking down on tax-related crimes based on laws to effectively maintain economic order and national tax security. Simultaneously, the STA conducts in-depth research and has launched a series of measures to assist in attracting investment to pursue high-quality development, resolutely upholding the integrity of the unified national market.

We practice opening up and sharing, deepening international tax exchange and cooperation. We have expanded China's tax treaty network to 114 countries and regions, strengthened the building of the "TaxExpress" cross-border service brand, and promoted information, policy and service connectivity for cross-border investments. Simultaneously, we are deeply integrated into international tax governance, serving high-level opening up and high-quality joint development of the Belt and Road Initiative. On this occasion, I would also like to announce that the fifth Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum (BRITACOF) will be held in Hong Kong from Sept. 24 to 26. Thank you for your attention.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and is a crucial year for achieving the goals and tasks of the 14th Five-Year Plan. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made important arrangements to further deepen reform comprehensively and to advance Chinese modernization. Next, we will intently study and implement the guiding principles of the session, focusing on the implementation of various tax-related reform tasks with relentless perseverance. We strive to make new progress in tax affairs, enhance our capacities and levels to serve high-quality development better, and make greater contributions to building a great country and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Rao, for your introduction. We'll now move on to the Q&A session. Please raise your hand if you have a question.

CCTV:

We know that the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee has outlined plans for deepening fiscal and tax system reforms, garnering widespread attention. Could you please explain how the tax department will implement the principles of the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee and further advance reforms in the tax sector? Thank you.

Rao Lixin:

Thank you for your question. The resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee lays out strategic, systematic and forward-looking arrangements for further deepening reform comprehensively and advancing Chinese modernization. It positions tax reform as a crucial component of improving the macroeconomic governance system. The resolution incorporates tax reform into major national strategies, including building a high-level socialist market economic system, promoting high-quality economic development, cultivating new quality productive forces, and supporting comprehensive innovation. This underscores the important responsibilities and mission of reforms in the tax sector.

The resolution of the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee outlines nearly 30 reform tasks directly related to the tax department. It sets overall requirements for improving the tax system and optimizing tax structure to be "conducive to high-quality development, social fairness, and market unification." It also makes specific requirements for the reform of multiple tax types, including value-added tax, consumption tax, and individual income tax. The resolution calls for the full implementation of the principle of legality of taxation and proposes several social insurance premium reform tasks related to the tax department. It covers both tax system reforms and reform of the tax collection and administration system. While making specific arrangements for deepening tax reforms, it also outlines the tax department's role in reforms related to science and technology, the rule of law, people's livelihoods, and ecology. These tax-related reform arrangements are ambitious, comprehensive, responsibility-laden, and practical, providing a clear roadmap for deepening tax reforms over the next five years and beyond.

The national tax system continues to study and thoroughly implement the principles of the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee. We are aligning our work with the resolution's requirements, considering the realities of tax work, and carefully formulating implementation plans for tax-field reforms. We're establishing a working mechanism where the principal leader of the Party and government takes overall responsibility for implementing reforms, refining the division of responsibilities, and clarifying the roadmap and timetable for each reform item. Moving forward, we will continue to strengthen communication and cooperation with departments such as finance and the development and reform commissions at all levels. We'll listen closely to suggestions from all parties on deepening tax reforms and integrate the implementation of the resolution's tax-related reform plans with ongoing tax work. Through these reforms, we aim to increase efficiency and strengthen capabilities, promoting high-quality tax practices for Chinese modernization in a sound and sustainable manner. This will help achieve the reform goals set by the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee at a high level. Thank you.

Economic Daily:

Tax data is an important economic indicator that can directly reflect the state of economic operations. From the perspective of tax data for the first eight months, what are the highlights of China's high-quality development?

Rao Lixin:

Mr. Huang will answer the question.

Huang Yun:

Thank you for your question. High-quality development is our primary task in building a modern socialist country in all respects. Since the beginning of this year, all regions and departments have continued to apply the new development philosophy in full, in the right way, and in all fields of endeavor and move faster to create a new pattern of development, and focus on promoting high-quality development, achieving new results. From the perspective of tax data, this is mainly reflected in six aspects.

First, innovative industries continue to expand. Value-added tax invoice data shows that from January to August this year, the sales revenues of China's high-tech industries and intellectual property (patent)-intensive industries increased by 11.6% and 8% year on year, respectively.

Second, the proportion of high-end manufacturing has increased. Value-added tax invoice data shows that from January to August this year, the sales revenues of China's equipment manufacturing industry grew by 5.5% year on year, which was 0.9 percentage point higher than the average growth rate of the manufacturing industry. Meanwhile, the proportion of equipment manufacturing sales revenue in the total sales revenue of the entire manufacturing industry reached 44.3%, up 0.4 percentage point compared to the same period last year.

Third, the integration of digital and real economies is deepening. Value-added tax invoice data shows that from January to August this year, the sales revenues of China's core digital economy industries grew by 8.2% year on year. The amount spent by enterprises on digital technologies increased by 8.6% year on year, reflecting improvements in both digital industrialization and industrial digitization.

Fourth, market circulation is becoming more fluid. Value-added tax invoice data indicates that from January to August this year, inter-provincial trade among enterprises nationwide increased by 3% year on year, accounting for 40.7% of total sales volume. This is 0.5 percentage point higher than the same period last year. Additionally, the sales revenue of the transportation and logistics industry increased by 9.9% year on year. These figures reflect steady progress in the development of a unified national market.

Fifth, green and low-carbon development has accelerated. Value-added tax invoice data shows that during the January-August period, sales revenue for green technology services in new energy, energy conservation, and environmental protection grew 24%, 19.9% and 5.8% year on year, respectively; sales revenue for clean energy power generation increased 12.4% year on year; and sales revenue for new energy vehicle manufacturing rose 33.6% year on year.

Sixth, the level of openness continues to improve. Tax data shows that during the first eight months, enterprises received 10.1% more direct export rebates compared to the same period last year, demonstrating the resilience and rapid growth of China's exports. Meanwhile, tax refunds to overseas shoppers leaving China increased by 150% year on year, indicating a rising interest in visiting China among foreign tourists. Thank you.

Changjiang Daily:

Individual income tax affects millions of households. The government has increased the standards for special additional deductions, including those for children's education and elderly care. What's the current progress on this? Thank you.

Shen Xinguo:

Thank you for your question. I believe most attendees here today can feel the tangible benefits this policy brings. To further reduce family expenses on childbirth, childcare, and elderly care, the State Council decided that from Jan. 1, 2023, the standards for special additional deductions would be increased for the care of children under 3 years old, children's education, and elderly care. Specifically, the deduction amounts for the care of children under 3 and for children's education have both increased from 1,000 yuan to 2,000 yuan per month per child. The deduction amount for elderly care has increased from 2,000 yuan to 3,000 yuan per month.

After the policy's release, tax authorities swiftly implemented it. We promptly adjusted and upgraded information systems to facilitate taxpayers' applications for deductions under the new policy. We also compiled explanatory materials and enhanced targeted publicity to ensure taxpayers could benefit as soon as possible. These efforts have yielded good results. Data from the individual income tax final settlement, which concluded at the end of June, shows that about 67 million people benefited from this policy in 2023. The total tax cuts surpassed 70 billion yuan, with an average reduction of over 1,000 yuan per person. Specifically, tax cuts for children's education, elderly care, and care for children under 3 years old were about 36 billion yuan, 29 billion yuan, and 5 billion yuan, respectively. The policy's coverage, total tax reduction, and intensity of tax cuts were substantial, providing timely benefits to taxpayers caring for both elderly parents and young children.

Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on issues affecting people's living standards. We will implement practical measures to fully release the benefits of tax policies, and strive to make greater efforts and contributions to improving people's livelihoods and well-being. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee further emphasized the importance of building a unified national market. What measures has the tax department taken to support this goal? Thank you.

Rao Lixin:

Thank you for the question. The third plenary session proposed building a unified national market, facilitating the smooth flow of production factors, efficient allocation of all types of resources, and full realization of market potential. In recent years, tax authorities have deeply implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council on accelerating the building of a unified national market. We have performed our duties and played our roles. Our focus has been on creating a conducive environment supported by favorable tax policies, effective enforcement, and enhanced services regarding taxes and fees.

We have enhanced fair competition review on new policies and documents, and made efforts to eliminate policies and measures that impede a unified market and fair competition, as well as tax-related laws, regulations and policies that treat enterprises unequally. We have improved the multi-channel mechanism and set up direct contact points for reporting problems so that we can quickly respond to issues reported by people working at the primary level as well as tax and fee payers and improve the fairness and certainty of policies. Since 2023, we have published 168 related policy Q&As and jointly or independently updated, compiled, and published 13 guides on favorable tax policies to facilitate sci-tech innovation, manufacturing development, and coordinated development.

We have revised and refined the code of conduct for tax collection and administration, further boosting national-level standardization in this field. Meanwhile, we have offered guidance for tax authorities in various regions to launch unified discretion standards for tax administrative penalties. These regions include the Yangtze River Delta region and the northeastern, northern, northwestern, southwestern, and central southern parts of the country. As a result, the unity and standardization of tax enforcement have been strengthened.

We have further facilitated cross-regional relocation for enterprises by launching a series of measures to optimize advance notifications, expedite ongoing processes, and improve post-relocation services. At present, eligible taxpayers can complete cross-regional relocation procedures as quickly as within one day. At the same time, we have continued to expand cross-regional tax and fee services. In March, we launched a pilot program for "remote virtual windows" in local tax service centers, which has since processed 164,000 cross-regional tax and fee transactions for taxpayers and payers.

In accordance with the arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we have actively collaborated with relevant departments to firmly oppose any investment attraction practices that violate regulations and undermine national market unity and fairness. The STA and provincial-level tax bureaus have set up leading groups to regulate tax-related issues stemming from irregular investment attraction practices. We have implemented a regular monitoring index system to promptly identify, warn about, and investigate suspicious activities. Working with relevant departments, we have also publicized typical cases of tax-related irregularities in investment attraction to promote regulation through case studies.

Looking ahead, the tax authorities will act upon the arrangements made by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will further elevate our political awareness, redouble our efforts, and enhance tax collection and administration services. We remain committed to contributing to the development of a unified national market through our tax-related initiatives. Thank you!

21st Century Business Herald:

The manufacturing industry forms the foundation of the real economy. Could you use tax revenue data to illustrate the current state of manufacturing development? Additionally, what role have structural tax and fee reduction policies played in supporting the development of the manufacturing sector? Thank you.

Dai Shiyou:

Thank you for your questions. The manufacturing industry is the foundation of a nation and the base of its strength. According to value-added tax (VAT) invoice data, from January to August this year, China's manufacturing industry sales revenue grew by 4.6% year on year, showing steady improvement. Three main characteristics are evident:

First, the manufacturing industry's role as an economic stabilizer continues to strengthen. VAT invoice data shows that from January to August, the sales revenue of China's manufacturing industry accounted for 29.7% of total sales revenue, up 0.8 percentage point over the same period last year.

Second, the manufacturing industry is gradually moving up the value chain towards medium and high-end production. VAT invoice data shows that from January to August, the sales revenue of China's high-end equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing sectors represented 16.5% and 15.6% of total manufacturing sales revenue, respectively. These figures represent an increase of 0.5 percentage point and 0.6 percentage point over the same period last year, respectively.

Third, the pace of intelligent and green development has accelerated. VAT invoice data reveals that from January to August, China's manufacturing industry increased its digital technology purchases by 10.7% year on year. This boost drove sales revenue in the intelligent equipment manufacturing sector up by 11.5% compared to the same period last year. Additionally, industrial enterprises above designated size increased their procurement of energy conservation and environmental protection services by 19.1% year on year, reflecting intensified efforts by businesses to save energy and control pollution.

For a long time, tax departments have conscientiously implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, accurately and efficiently implementing preferential tax and fee policies to support the development of the manufacturing industry. This has helped the manufacturing sector relieve operational pressures, encourage innovation, and stimulate development potential. We have eased tax and fee burdens on the manufacturing industry. From 2018 to 2023, newly implemented tax and fee cuts and deferrals for China's manufacturing industry totaled over 4 trillion yuan, representing over 30% of total tax and fee incentives — the highest among all industries. Additionally, we have contributed to the upgrading and transformation of the manufacturing industry. A series of tax-and-fee policies promoting scientific and technological innovation, energy conservation and environmental protection have effectively advanced the transformation and upgrading of manufacturing enterprises towards high-end, intelligent, and green development. Taking the additional deductions for R&D expenses as an example, in 2023, 333,000 manufacturing enterprises enjoyed an additional deduction of 2.03 trillion yuan for R&D expenses, with both the number of enterprises benefiting from these policies and the amount of additional deductions accounting for over 50% of the total, reaching 52.9% and 58.8% respectively.

Moving forward, we will conscientiously implement the guiding principles from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will prioritize support for the development of the manufacturing industry, advance the effective implementation of policies, and bring more tangible benefits to enterprises. These efforts aim to better contribute to the high-quality development of the manufacturing sector.

Cover News:

What key initiatives have the tax authorities undertaken to promote efficient one-stop government services? This year marks the 11th consecutive year of the "Spring Breeze Action to Facilitate Citizens' Handling of Tax Affairs" campaign. Could you please update us on its progress? Thank you.

Rao Lixin:

We will have Mr. Shen answer this question.

Shen Xinguo:

Thank you for your questions. The State Council has formulated a list of major tasks for one-stop government services. Seven out of 21 major tasks are tax-related matters. These items are not only a wish list for enterprises and citizens but also a responsibility checklist for tax departments. Since the beginning of this year, we have thoroughly implemented the Guidelines on Further Optimizing Government Services to Improve Government Performance and Promoting One-Stop Government Services, leveraging our functions to enhance the overall efficiency of online and offline government services.

First, we have simplified procedures. For example, we've implemented declaration methods such as "data collection + intelligent pre-filling" and "coordinated tax management + information supplementation," enabling most taxpayers to complete their declarations with just one-click confirmation or minimal information correction. Second, we have promoted business integration. For instance, in the new E-tax China platform, we've created multiple comprehensive tax payment scenarios, integrating matters involving multiple taxes and fees that previously required multiple steps into one-stop services, effectively meeting taxpayers' needs and expectations. Third, we have expanded data sharing. For example, we've deepened cooperation with the General Administration of Customs and other departments to share data and information promptly, improving service efficiency for matters such as export tax rebates for enterprises. Fourth, we have strengthened interdepartmental cooperation. We've actively cooperated with market regulation departments, promoting "one-stop processing" for enterprise information changes and "one-stop online processing" for enterprise deregistration. This helps efficiently complete "one-stop" legal compliance information verification for enterprise listings and enterprise bankruptcy information verification.

While implementing key tasks for one-stop government services, tax departments have conducted the Spring Breeze Action to facilitate tax services for 11 consecutive years. Our efforts have been focused on improving efficiency to serve the public. Being committed to providing one-stop services for taxpayers and fee payers, we have offered innovative services and expanded our service scope to enhance convenience and efficiency.

To improve communication and guidance, we have optimized targeted notifications of preferential tax and fee policies, increasing precision and coverage in reaching targeted groups. We've launched "first lesson" campaigns for new taxpayers, allowing them to access relevant courses while handling services online. Additionally, tax authorities across regions have conducted over 1,500 online video Q&A sessions, effectively disseminating tax and fee policies and addressing common concerns through various methods.

To enhance tax and fee payment convenience, we've expanded payment channels, streamlined required documentation, and further reduced burdens on taxpayers and fee payers. We've deepened cross-regional processing, enabling taxpayers and fee payers to handle nationwide tax and fee matters at any comprehensive tax service hall.

In expanding taxpayer credit services, we've improved credit evaluation methods, helping new taxpayers enhance their credit. By August's end, 26,000 newly established taxpayers achieved credit upgrades. In collaboration with financial supervision departments and commercial banks, we have standardized and improved alignment between banks and tax departments. In the first half year, micro and small enterprises across China obtained 1.56-trillion-yuan bank loans through the "Bank and Tax Interaction" mechanism, representing a 7.6% year-on-year increase. These efforts have helped micro and small enterprises gain better access to credit support. 

Going forward, we will establish regular face-to-face communication mechanisms between tax authorities and businesses to advance comprehensive collection and efficient resolution of tax and fee-related requests, continuously improving the effectiveness of our tax and fee services. Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

We noted that last year, to mark the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the STA introduced the cross-border service brand TaxExpress. Could you share the current implementation results? Additionally, what progress has been made on building the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism (BRITACOM )? Thank you.

Rao Lixin:

Thank you for your questions. I'll address them. Since the launch of the TaxExpress cross-border service brand last year, tax departments have actively supported the entire process and lifecycle of cross-border investment. We've focused on developing a cross-border tax and fee service system, providing robust support for companies engaging in cross-border investment.

We have created a cross-border investment tax service ecosystem. The SAT has fully leveraged interdepartmental collaboration, enhancing data sharing and coordination with the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Commerce, and China Customs. Concurrently, we've guided local tax authorities to strengthen departmental synergy, integrating tax service resources to support companies' cross-border investments. 

We have enriched our cross-border investment tax service system. To date, we've updated and released 105 country- and region-specific investment and taxation guides, including guidelines for 99 overseas taxation items, 26 overseas tax cases, and 50 FAQs for cross-border taxpayers. This year, we also introduced new resources such as the Export Tax Refund (Exemption) Operation Guidelines for Overseas Warehouses of Cross-Border E-Commerce Businesses, the "Going Global" Individual Tax Guidelines, and global tax information updates. These provide references for cross-border investors to stay informed about overseas tax policy dynamics and mitigate cross-border investment tax risks.

We have expanded rapid communication channels for cross-border investment tax issues. We've established regular communication mechanisms with foreign chambers and associations, addressing 155 cross-border tax challenges this year. We've invited foreign tax authorities, overseas Chinese enterprise associations, and Chinese embassies to explain cross-border investment policies to companies both online and offline. So far, we've held five country-specific events in this regard, including Austria, the Republic of Korea and Mexico. We've continuously provided cross-border tax advisory services through the national 12366 hotline. This year, we've provided 110,000 bilingual (Chinese and English) tax consultations for both outbound Chinese enterprises and inbound foreign companies.

This year marks the sixth year of the establishment of the BRITACOM. Since its inception in 2019, BRITACOM forums have been successfully hosted four times in China, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Georgia, yielding 20 key outcomes and fostering an international tax environment conducive to growth. Five Belt and Road Schools of Taxation have been established in Yangzhou, Beijing, Macao, Astana and Riyadh. Recently, another School of Taxation was added in Macao (Hengqin Campus), creating a multilingual, multinational tax training network covering English, Portuguese, Russian and Arabic-speaking regions. Focusing on themes such as "tax administration and digitization," many workshops and seminars for tax personnel from BRI partner countries have been held, attracting over 1,500 participants. The official website of BRITACOM has attracted visitors from 175 countries and regions, facilitating exchanges and mutual learning among all parties.

As I mentioned at the outset, the fifth Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum will be held in Hong Kong from Sept. 24 to 26. About 400 representatives from over 60 countries, regions and international organizations will gather to discuss the theme of "Deepening Tax Administration Cooperation for High-Quality Belt and Road Development." They will explore ways to deepen tax cooperation within the BRI. Once again, I invite all media representatives to actively follow and report on this event. Thank you.

Beijing Youth Daily:

The large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-in programs implemented this year are important measures driving high-quality development. These measures are conducive to both investment and consumption. I'd like to ask, according to tax data, how have these two measures progressed? Thank you.

Rao Lixin:

I would like to invite Mr. Dai to answer this question.

Dai Shiyou:

Thank you for your question. The large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins were initiated by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council as a major move to drive China's overall high-quality development. In March, the State Council issued an action plan for promoting large-scale equipment renewal and consumer goods trade-ins, and relevant departments and local governments subsequently rolled out supporting measures to ensure their effective execution.

Driven by these policies, enterprises significantly accelerated their equipment renewal. VAT invoice data show that from April to August this year, the value of machinery equipment purchased by enterprises nationwide increased by 5.6% year on year, with a growth rate 7.6 percentage points higher than in March, before the introduction of the action plan. The effect is especially noticeable in three key areas. Industrial enterprises have accelerated equipment renewal, with purchase increasing by 4.4% year on year from April to August, 5.5 percentage points higher than in March. Information and technology industry upgrades also accelerated. From April to August, machinery equipment purchases by the information technology service industry and the scientific research and technology service industry surged by 17.7% and 20% year on year, respectively, up 16 and 10.6 percentage points from March. Transportation and rental business service equipment updates accelerated. From April to August, machinery equipment procurement by the transportation industry and rental business service equipment industry increased by 0.4% and 16.1% year on year, respectively, 15 and 19.2 percentage points higher than in March.

Driven by factors such as national incentives, local support, and enterprise concessions, VAT invoice data shows that consumer demand for automobiles, home appliances, and furnishings has gradually increased. New energy vehicle (NEV) sales increased significantly, and second-hand car sales accelerated. From April to August, NEV sales jumped by 38.4% year on year, 10.9 percentage points higher than in March. Meanwhile, second-hand vehicle sales rose by 6.2% year on year, 10.8 percentage points higher than in March. Home appliance sales improved. From April to August, sales of household appliances like refrigerators and household audio-visual equipment such as televisions increased by 2.4% and 5% year on year, respectively, 2.8 and 11.6 percentage points higher than in March. Furniture and sanitary ware products were selling well. From April to August, retail sales revenue of furniture and sanitary ware grew by 8.9% and 12% year on year, respectively, 8.3 and 22.6 percentage points higher than in March.

Next, the tax department will continue to implement various tax and fee support policies in accordance with the deployment and requirements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. This will better facilitate and enhance the efficiency of large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods' trade-ins. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

The last question, please.

Xinhua:

China has introduced many preferential tax policies to support innovation, among which a policy for additional deduction to R&D expenses has attracted wide attention. Could you brief us on this?

Rao Lixin:

Mr. Huang will answer this question.

Huang Yun:

Thank you for your question. In recent years, China has introduced a series of preferential tax policies to support scientific and technological innovation, such as the additional deduction for R&D expenses and preferential income tax policies for high-tech enterprises. Among them, the R&D expense deduction offers broad coverages, significant impact and high value, effectively enhancing enterprises' role as the main drivers of innovation. To make this easier to understand, let me give a simple example. If a company engages in R&D activities and incurs eligible R&D expenses of one million yuan, and if the 100% additional deduction policy applies, the company can deduct two million yuan in R&D costs before calculating its income tax. Simply put, for every one yuan spent, the company can deduct two yuan in costs. This approach significantly reduces the company's taxable income and, consequently, the tax payable. By reinvesting the tax savings into R&D, companies create a positive cycle that promotes innovation.

In order to further advance innovation-driven development and encourage enterprises to increase their investment in R&D, the policy for additional R&D expense deductions has been continuously strengthened in recent years. This has boosted companies' confidence, enhanced their determination and injected fresh momentum into technological innovation. It is mainly reflected in three aspects:

First, the additional deduction rate has been continuously raised. Starting in 2017, the R&D expense deduction was raised from 50% to 75% in phases across various industries. It was then further increased to 100%, with a 120% deduction now available for R&D expenses in key areas, such as integrated circuits and industrial mother machines.

Second, the timing for benefiting from the policy has been advanced several times. Initially, the additional deduction could only be claimed during the annual corporate income tax settlement. This was extended to the October prepayment declaration and then the July prepayment period. This allows enterprises to access policy benefits earlier, providing greater cash flow to increase their R&D investments.

Third, efforts have been made to continually improve the precision of policy implementation. Tax departments have carefully conducted policy promotion and guidance, providing targeted information. The Implementation Guidelines for the Policy of Additional Deduction of Research and Development Expenses was compiled and published, with timely updates and improvements. They have also issued case studies to address challenging issues in identifying R&D activities and policy application, further clarifying and standardizing implementation standards. These efforts help enterprises benefit from the policy more accurately and promptly.

According to data from the 2023 annual corporate income tax settlement that concluded in the first half of this year, a total of 629,000 enterprises across the country benefited from additional R&D expense deductions amounting to 3.45 trillion yuan. This policy has injected new momentum into accelerating the development of new quality productive forces. On the one hand, it has strongly supported the innovative development of high-tech enterprises. In 2023, 405,000 high-tech enterprises received additional deductions totaling 2.83 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 15.1%. The average deduction per company is 2.5 times that of enterprises that are not classified as high-tech. On the other hand, it has significantly supported the innovation and development of private enterprises. In 2023, private enterprises received additional deductions totaling 2.59 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 12.5%, accounting for 75% of all additional deductions across enterprises.

Next, the tax department will thoroughly implement the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will further enforce tax policies, such as the additional deduction for R&D expense, to support technological innovation. Our goal is to fully support the innovation and development of various enterprises and to better nurture and expand new quality productive forces. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Rao, and all our speakers. Thanks to all journalists for joining us. That's all for today's briefing. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Zhou Jing, Yang Chuanli, Ma Yujia, Liu Sitong, Wang Wei, Xu Kailin, Liu Jianing, Zhang Tingting, Li Huiru, Yan Xiaoqing, Liu Qiang, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Liu Guohong, vice minister of natural resources and deputy chief inspector of national natural resources

Mr. Yan Zhen, vice administrator of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration (National Park Administration)

Mr. Wu Haiyang, chief planner of the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR)

Mr. He Guangshun, chief engineer of the MNR

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 19, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Liu Guohong, vice minister of natural resources and deputy chief inspector of national natural resources; Mr. Yan Zhen, vice administrator of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration (National Park Administration); Mr. Wu Haiyang, chief planner of the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR); and Mr. He Guangshun, chief engineer of the MNR. They will provide briefings on relevant developments and take your questions. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Liu for his briefing. 

Liu Guohong: 

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning! Thank you for your long-term support and attention to the work of natural resources!

Since the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the MNR has deeply studied and implemented Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We have integrated development and security, prioritized ecological protection, conserved resources and used them efficiently, and pursued green and low-carbon development, with a view to promoting high-quality development.

First, we have firmly defended the bottom line of resource security. We have prioritized arable land, the cornerstone of food production, by reforming and improving the system for offsetting cultivated land that has been put to other uses. We have promoted the implementation of a responsibility system for arable land protection and food security, and established an economic reward and punishment mechanism. Since 2021, the total amount of arable land nationwide has increased by 17.58 million mu (1.17 million hectares), achieving a net increase for three consecutive years and reversing the long-standing trend of decline. Notably, southern provinces last year saw a net increase of 7.39 million mu, changing the previous pattern of “decrease in the south, increase in the north.” We have also focused on ensuring the supply of key energy and mineral resources, launching a new phase of the resource exploration strategy and advancing reforms in mineral resource management. Since 2021, investment in resource exploration has grown for three consecutive years, leading to a significant boost in reserves and production. Major discoveries include a large oil field with reserves exceeding 100 million tons in Hongde, Gansu province; China’s first deep coalbed methane field with over 100 billion cubic meters of proven reserves at the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin; a super-large lithium deposit in Yajiang county, Sichuan province; and Asia’s largest phosphate mine in Zhenxiong county, Yunnan province.

Second, we have optimized the spatial layout of territorial space. We have further advanced the reform to unify multiple plans into one cohesive national territorial spatial planning system, which at this point has been largely established. General plans for 30 provinces (autonomous regions, municipalities) and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, as well as 83% of city-level and 84% of county-level plans, have been approved and implemented. Territorial spatial plans for regions, such as the Yangtze River Economic Belt, have been approved. Plans for the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the Yangtze River Delta, the Yellow River Basin and the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle are in active development. We have continuously optimized plans for territorial space as well as land-use policies, supporting three major projects: government-subsidized housing, urban village renovation and dual-use public infrastructure that can accommodate emergency needs. Additionally, we have promoted the redevelopment of inefficient urban land to serve new urbanization efforts. Applying the experience gained from the Green Rural Revival Program in Zhejiang Province, we have tailored village plans based on local conditions and have promoted comprehensive land management, supporting rural revitalization. In our efforts to build a strong maritime country, China's gross ocean product reached 9.9 trillion yuan in 2023, a year-on-year increase of 6.0%. We have continued to advance ocean and polar scientific expeditions, with China’s newly built Qinling Station in Antarctica now operational. Significant breakthroughs have been achieved by the polar icebreakers Xuelong and Xuelong 2. China's polar research has spanned 40 years, yielding remarkable accomplishments.

Third, we have promoted green and low-carbon development. We have implemented a comprehensive conservation strategy, strictly controlling the size and standards for construction land use, which since 2012 has led to a cumulative reduction of 45% in land use per unit of GDP. We have promoted green exploration and development, ensuring that all active mines meet the minimum standards for mining recovery, dressing recovery and comprehensive utilization rates —referred to as the "three rates" in the mining sector—for the 125 types of mineral resources involved. We have explored layered and three-dimensional development of marine areas and have strictly controlled new coastal reclamation projects. We have strengthened the supply of natural resource elements, ensuring that major infrastructure and livelihood projects receive necessary land and sea resources. Since the 20th CPC National Congress, China has approved 11.53 million mu of agricultural land conversion and land requisition, as well as the use of 7.39 million mu of sea area. These approvals involved 4,238 transportation projects, 281 water conservancy projects and 4,588 energy projects. We have also completed the construction of 3D real-scene data for approximately three-quarters of China’s land and key islands, providing geospatial data for economic and social development. Furthermore, we have supported the construction of large wind and photovoltaic power bases in deserts, the Gobi and barren areas, guiding the regulated use of marine areas for photovoltaic projects to promote new energy development. We have strengthened ecological protection and restoration by conducting nationwide surveys on the desertification of forests, grasslands and wetlands. We have completed the delineation of ecological protection redlines and have laid out plans for the world’s largest national park system. We have completed the unified property rights registration for 256 important ecological spaces, including the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park, and have carried out integrated protection and systematic governance of mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands and deserts. China's Shan-Shui initiative has been recognized as one of the UN's first ten World Restoration Flagships. 

Fourth, we have safeguarded the rights and interests of resource and assets. We have explored the path of transforming lucid waters and lush mountains into invaluable assets, launched pilot mechanisms to realize the market value of ecosystem goods and services, deepened the reform for collective forest tenure, advanced trials for market-based transfers of rural collective land designated for business construction, and have increased property incomes of rural collective economic entities and rural people. We have given priority to enhancing the facilitation for the registration of immovable property, with single-window inter-agency services for registration, transactions and tax payments being provided in all cities and counties across the country. General registration and mortgage registration can be completed within five working days. We have strengthened the rule of law, advanced the formulation of the national park law, the law on farmland protection and quality improvement and the law on territorial space plans, strictly carried out natural resource inspections and law enforcement, and have safeguarded the order of development and utilization of natural resources as well as the legitimate rights and interests of the people.

Next, we will continue to thoroughly implement the guiding principles from the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, promote the preservation and appropriate development of natural resources, so as to better support high-quality development. 

Next, my colleagues and I will take your questions. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thanks for the introduction from Mr. Liu. Now the floor is open to questions.

CCTV:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has proposed to promote integrated urban-rural development and has made systematic arrangements for deepening reform of the land system. What implementation measures will be taken by the MNR? 

Liu Guohong:

Thanks to the reporter from CCTV for your attention to this question.

Integrated urban and rural development is essential to Chinese modernization, and urban and rural development depends on the guarantee of land element. In accordance with the arrangements made by the third plenary session, we will focus on implementing the strategies of new industrialization, new urbanization and rural revitalization. On the premise of keeping the public ownership of land unchanged, not crossing the red line of arable land and not damaging the interests of farmers, we will deepen the reform of the land system in three ways, so as to better optimize the allocation and make efficient use of urban and rural land resources, promoting shared prosperity and development in urban and rural areas.

First, based on ensuring that the red line for protecting farmland is not crossed, we have reformed and refined the system for offsetting arable land that has been put to other uses. In view of the new situation with arable land protection in recent years, all types of farmland used for other purposes must be placed under the system’s management in a unified manner. The principle must be upheld that the farmland occupied for other purposes must be offset equally with newly opened-up farmland. We will strengthen the management and control of dynamic equilibrium for the total of arable land. We will improve both incentive and constraint mechanisms, take the balance between the occupation and replenishment of farmland as an important part of the assessment of provincial Party committees and governments’ responsibility system for arable land protection and food security, and implement the economic reward and punishment mechanism for arable land protection, so as to ensure that regions protecting arable land will not suffer losses and farmers protecting arable land will receive benefits.

Second, based on efficient alignment with macro policies and the needs of regional development, we will refine construction land management systems. Focusing on the implementation of a coordinated regional development strategy, major regional strategies and the functional zoning strategy. In accordance with the resource endowments and functions of different regions, we will ensure more precise guarantee ability of land elements, creating greater development space for regions with a competitive edge. At the same time, we will focus on advancing a new type of urbanization that should be people-centered, and establish a coordination mechanism to link increases in urban construction land quotas for cities with the growth of permanent residents.

Third, based on advancing more economical, intensive and efficient use of land, we will improve the policy system for putting idle and inefficiently used land to better use. We will speed up developing a unified market for urban and rural land that is designated for construction, promote orderly reforms for market-based transfers of rural collective land that is designated for business construction, make better use of idle land in rural areas, and ensure the land-use needs in pursuing all-around rural revitalization. We will improve trading rules and transaction service platforms for the secondary market of construction land as well as will promote the trading of idle land’s use rights. In addition, we will improve the policy system for putting idle land into better use. We will better coordinate strategies and plans, guiding the idle and inefficiently used land to be better used in an orderly manner. We will refine the land acquisition and storage mechanism as well as give better play to the role of reserves for development and regulation of supply. We will increase policy incentives, advance mixed development and composite use of land and explore changes in land usage when appropriate, with the aim of continuously enhancing efficiency in land use.

China Financial and Economic News:

We know that the implementation and construction of projects depend on land. What will the MNR do to optimize land management and meet the demand for project land usage? What are the considerations for follow-up work? Thank you.

Liu Guohong:

We will have Mr. Wu answer these questions.

Wu Haiyang:

Thanks to this reporter for your questions. In recent years, the MNR has safeguarded redlines and bottom lines, promoted conservation and efficient use of resources, and has protected the rights and interests of farmers. On that basis, we have continued to improve policies for land use, optimize land management and provide service and support for the implementation of a series of major strategies and projects arranged by the Party Central Committee, effectively supporting high-quality development.

First, we have reformed the planning and management system for land use and have ensured land quotas in a category-based and targeted manner. We have adhered to the principle that “projects are developed and implemented in accordance with the plans and production factors stay with projects that they are allocated to” and have ensured the land use for major projects, with the quotas of planned land use directly allocated by the country. In terms of the land use for other projects, we have carried out mechanisms for coordinating the good use of idle land and the arrangements for planned quotas, which are the mechanisms we often mention that link the increase and deposit of land, pressuring enterprises and localities to make economical and intensive use of land. At the same time, we have arranged basic planned quotas for each province (or autonomous region or municipality) ensuring the land usage needs for major strategies, major industrial projects and important projects for the people’s wellbeing of provincial Party committees and governments. We have continued to arrange special plan quotas for counties lifted out of poverty and separate plan quotas for the construction of farmers’ housing to support the all-round rural revitalization. In a word, as long as it is an effective investment project that conforms to planning, national industrial policies and land usage policies, the reasonable needs for land use can be ensured by related plans.

Second, we've optimized the land use approval system to support timely project implementation. We've intensified efforts to promote interdepartmental coordination and made good preparations for projects. We've also streamlined pre-approval procedures for project land use and expedited major project approvals. We've adopted a series of policy measures, including pre-approved land use, temporary land use, and phase-oriented and segment-based approval for land use, to ensure that major projects regarding energy, transportation, water conservancy and defense can be implemented as soon as possible. Moreover, we've urged local governments to revise and release new compensation standards for land expropriation in accordance with the law. We've ensured that their practices adhere to the standard land expropriation process and that they must provide compensation for land expropriation and resettlement. By doing so, we aim to safeguard farmers' legitimate rights and interests.

Third, we've reduced the number of items requiring approval to improve the business environment. By leveraging the advantages of the "unified regulation system," we've advanced reforms to streamline administrative approval procedures and integrate business certifications and licenses into one consolidated license, such as merging land use pre-approval with site selection planning, land use permits with construction land planning permits, and land use verification with planning verification. We've also standardized planning permits for construction land, project construction, and rural construction while promoting electronic planning permit certificates. We've accelerated the implementation of "full online processing" for real estate registration, aiming to achieve "land transfer with immediate certificate issuance" and "completion with immediate certificate issuance."

Looking ahead, we will continue to enhance land management and strengthen support for leading industries and major projects. We will steadily improve the precision and efficiency of land resource allocation to ensure various sectors' reasonable land use needs are met.

That's all for my introduction. Thank you. 

Guangming Daily:

We've noticed that the draft National Park Law was recently submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress for deliberation. Could you please share the latest progress in national park development and outline the key focus areas for future work? Thank you.

Liu Guohong:

I'd like to invite Mr. Yan to answer this question.

Yan Zhen:

Thank you for your question and continued support and concern for the national park initiative. As we all know, national parks are of crucial importance to our nation, representing a significant achievement in China's ecological civilization development. The CPC Central Committee has made a series of major decisions and arrangements regarding the establishment of the national park system. Over the past three years since the establishment of the first batch of national parks, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration has worked with relevant departments to accelerate the legislative process for the National Park Law to turn these major decisions and arrangements into institutional regulations. The draft of the National Park Law is now open for public comment, and we encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas.

In the legislative process, we entrusted the Chinese Academy of Sciences as a third party to conduct an evaluation. According to the evaluation results, since the establishment of national parks, populations of flagship species such as the giant panda, Siberian tiger, Amur leopard, and Tibetan antelope have seen sustained increases, while the ecological quality of these parks has seen steady improvement. As such, it's clear that ecological conservation efforts have yielded significant results. Thanks to joint efforts by governments and departments at all levels, new achievements have been made in the following four aspects this year:

First, resource protection and management have been further strengthened. We've intensified efforts to survey and mark protected area boundaries, completing the confirmation and registration of natural resource rights for Giant Panda National Park, Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park (NCTLNP), Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, and Wuyi Mountain National Park, all of which have been formally recorded on the register. Moreover, local governments and departments have been gradually tackling longstanding problems by adopting innovative solutions, including land swaps and conservation easement agreements. While maintaining strict protection measures, we have adopted flexible management strategies for major national strategic projects, facilities serving park residents, and ecological restoration initiatives.

Second, our monitoring and management capabilities have been greatly enhanced. We have introduced an independently developed high-tech monitoring system in the national parks. In the NCTLNP, a comprehensive ground-to-air monitoring system has been established. Monitoring data shows that populations of sika deer, roe deer, and other wild animals in the park have more than doubled since the park's pilot phase in 2017, strengthening the food chain for increasing numbers of wild Siberian tigers and Amur leopards. To safeguard public safety and property, the NCTLNP has also established a three-tier early warning system and installed physical barriers in key areas. Moving forward, we will further enhance the application of new technologies and equipment in the monitoring and management of national parks, such as satellite remote sensing, airships and drones.

Third, national parks have been delivering more benefits to local residents. More than 50,000 local farmers and herders have been employed as ecological protectors in national parks, dedicating themselves to conserving the ecosystems of their homeland. Moreover, stepped-up efforts have been made to increase local residents' income, including through ecological tourism, differentiated compensation mechanisms for eco-environmental conservation, and the development of communities located at or near national park entrances.

Fourth, our scientific and technological support capacity has been further enhanced. We have established a national giant panda conservation and research center by integrating existing resources, and are advancing efforts to set up national conservation and research centers dedicated to protecting Siberian tigers and Amur leopards, as well as Hainan black-crested gibbons. Additionally, in collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Tsinghua University, we have jointly established the Institute of National Parks,  setting up a national park art and design center within it. We've also brought in academicians and experts to participate in our conservation and research efforts, creating a high-level, open and shared platform.

Moving forward, we will thoroughly implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and fully advance the creation of a nature reserve system with national parks as the mainstay. We will adhere to the principle of putting ecological protection first, implement tailored strategies for each park, and support high-quality development with a high-quality ecological environment.

Thank you.

China Natural Resources News:

The recently released domestic game "Black Myth: Wukong" features realistic environments created with real-scene 3D mapping technology. Could you elaborate on the development and applications of this technology? We've also learned that the MNR is spearheading the Real-Scene 3D China project. Could you please share more information on that as well? Thank you.

Liu Guohong:

Thank you for your professional questions. I'll try to answer in simple terms. Real-scene 3D technology utilizes modern mapping and geographic information techniques to create 3D, accurate, and time-sequenced representations of real-world environments. In recent years, as we advance the Real-Scene 3D China project, we've categorized it into three levels based on detail: terrain-level, city-level, and component-level. Terrain-level 3D captures topography and geographic features, primarily serving large-scale applications. For instance, when planning high-speed rail or expressways, this technology significantly reduces field survey work while enhancing planning accuracy. City-level 3D offers detailed 3D building shapes, supporting smart city management — often referred to as the "city brain." It facilitates low-altitude economic planning through airspace planning, route design, 3D navigation, and monitoring. Component-level 3D specializes in high-detail applications, creating precise "3D archives" of historical buildings and cultural relics. The game "Black Myth: Wukong" you mentioned employs this level of technology, providing players with an immersive experience.

The Real-Scene 3D China project is a national strategic data resource and a new type of infrastructure. Its value is becoming increasingly evident in the digital age. First, it promotes the development of the digital economy. By integrating various types of big data with real-scene 3D models, we can connect digital and physical spaces, supporting development of the digital economy including the low-altitude economy, autonomous driving, smart ports, intelligent agriculture, and digital cultural tourism. Second, it enhances quality of life. Through spatial analysis and high-precision navigation services based on real-scene 3D technology, everyday activities like socializing, transportation, travel, dining, and shopping have become more efficient, convenient and eco-friendly. Third, it supports smart governance. By integrating and overlaying economic, social, and natural resource data based on real-scene 3D technology, we can more accurately align resources in time and space, enabling more refined governance and efficient services. In short, real-scene 3D and spatial geographic data are all around us, though we often use them without realizing it.

Looking ahead, to better support economic and social development, we aim to complete the initial phase of the Real-Scene 3D China project by 2025. Subsequently, we will continually enhance its coverage, precision, timeliness, and depth. This project will be instrumental in supporting the development of digital China and contributing to improved quality of life for our citizens. Thank you once again for your questions.

The New Times:

In recent years, we've seen an intensification in global climate change and a rise in extreme weather events. How have these factors affected the occurrence and patterns of geological and marine disasters? What strategies are being considered to address these challenges in the future? Thank you.

Liu Guohong:

We'll ask Mr. He to answer your questions.

He Guangshun:

Thank you for your questions. Global climate change has led to more frequent extreme rainfall events in recent years. Consequently, China has experienced an intensification of geological disasters and a rise in the frequency of marine disasters. Facing this situation, the MNR has adhered to the principle of "putting people and their lives first," proactively implementing preventive and responsive measures to address these challenges.

In terms of geological disaster prevention, we've enhanced monitoring and early warning systems using both human and technological approaches, steadily improving our community-level capacity for disaster prevention and mitigation. To build a people-based risk prevention system, we've guided local authorities to enhance training and drills for grassroots officials, over 260,000 community monitoring and prevention personnel, and professional teams. These individuals conduct dynamic inspections of hidden dangers and risk areas, using gongs, whistles and warning broadcasts to help alert and evacuate people once danger is detected. For example, on July 16 this year, a mudslide risk was identified in Jiuzhaigou county, Sichuan province, and more than 400 people were evacuated in time, preventing potential casualties. To create a technology-based risk prevention system, we've implemented a four-tier warning system for weather-induced geological disasters across national, provincial, city and county levels, deploying automated equipment like Beidou movement monitors at more than 66,000 high-risk locations. For example, during the July 19 landslide disaster in Xishan township of Mangshi city, Yunnan province, our monitoring system issued a warning one hour in advance, allowing for timely evacuation of over 30 people and averting potential casualties. Since the beginning of this year, we've successfully predicted over 550 geological disasters nationwide, facilitating the advance evacuation of more than 6,700 people. Over the past decade, we've seen a 74% reduction in deaths and missing persons due to geological disasters compared to the previous 10-year period.

In terms of marine disaster prevention, especially for marine dynamic disasters, we've conducted investigations and risk assessments for storm surges, waves, tsunamis and rising sea levels, delimiting key marine disaster prevention areas. China's homegrown "Mazu" series of marine forecasting models have been deployed, markedly enhancing the precision and speed of disaster predictions during our response to this year's 11th and 13th typhoons, Yagi and Bebinca. To prevent marine ecological disasters, we've implemented cross-regional joint measures to control Enteromorpha green tide in the Yellow Sea, tackling the issue at its source and removing algae early on. As a result, this year's disaster has had the least impact on the coastal regions in Shandong province in recent years. Compared to the previous decade, direct economic losses and the number of deaths and missing people caused by marine disasters have decreased by 62% and 85%, respectively, in the past 10 years.

Next, we will further enhance disaster monitoring methods and increase the accuracy and timeliness of disaster forecasting and early warnings. We'll also strengthen capacity building and personnel training at the community level, while continuously conducting inspections and rectifications of hidden dangers and risk areas. These efforts aim to enhance our capability to prevent and respond to geological and marine disasters. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

High-quality development can't be achieved without the support of mineral resources. What measures have been taken in recent years to enhance mineral resource security and promote green exploration and development in this sector?

Liu Guohong:

I'd like to invite Mr. Wu to answer this question.

Wu Haiyang:

Thank you for your question. In recent years, the MNR has prioritized strengthening our ability to ensure a secure supply of energy and resources. We've intensified efforts in mineral resource exploration and development while simultaneously advancing the sector's green transformation.

On the one hand, we've taken solid steps to promote a new round of strategic mineral exploration, continuously enhancing domestic resource security. We've further strengthened basic geological work, providing enterprises with more target areas for prospecting. We've also expanded the granting of exploration rights to more enterprises, incentivizing them to discover higher-quality mines with larger reserves. In 2023, a total of 459 entities nationwide were granted exploration rights, a year-on-year increase of 26.8%. In the first eight months of this year, 868 entities were granted exploration rights, a year-on-year increase of 194.1%. Among them, 528 were granted exploration rights for strategic mineral resources, a year-on-year increase of 254.4%. We've effectively utilized government funding to steer and encourage private-sector investment in mineral exploration. The share of nongovernmental investment in mineral exploration has steadily grown. Meanwhile, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the MNR has revised the method of collecting mining rights transfer proceeds, moving from a one-time fee to annual payments based on mineral production revenue. This change incentivizes enterprises to increase their investments in mineral exploration. We've intensified deep and comprehensive exploration of scarce strategic mineral resources, yielding a series of positive results. Mr. Liu just gave an introduction in this regard. In 2023, four 100-million-ton oil fields and four 100-billion-cubic-meter gas fields were discovered nationwide. We've further consolidated our leading position in minerals like tungsten, molybdenum, antimony, crystalline graphite and apatite. Significant breakthroughs were achieved in the exploration of minerals such as lithium, cobalt and nickel. These efforts have bolstered the resource security essential for the development of strategic emerging industries.

On the other hand, we are making every effort to promote green exploration and development, integrating environmental protection into all aspects of mineral resource exploration, development and ecological restoration. We will fully implement green exploration in the new round of strategic actions for mineral exploration breakthroughs. Stricter requirements for green exploration will be introduced within the ecological conservation redline s, with a focus on minimizing the disruption of exploration activities to the environment. We will establish and improve the standard system for green mine construction, ensure that enterprises take on their principal responsibilities, promote the construction of new mines fully in line with green mine standards, and gradually transform mines currently in operation to meet these standards. At present, more than 1,000 national-level and over 3,100 provincial-level green mines have been established across the country.

Next, we will further enhance the overall planning and connection system for the exploration, mining, supply, storage and sales of strategic mineral resources. We will continue to further promote the new round of strategic actions for mineral exploration breakthroughs, and promote increases in reserves and production of important energy and mineral resources, thereby contributing to the construction of a modern industrial system.

That is all from me. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily, Nafang Plus:

The report to the 20th CPC National Congress stressed the need to develop the marine economy, protect the marine ecological environment, and move faster to build a strong maritime country. What achievements have been made in turning China into a strong maritime nation in recent years? And what measures will be taken going forward? Thank you.

Liu Guohong: 

I would like to invite Mr. He to answer this question.

He Guangshun: 

Thank you for your question. The 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee have made strategic arrangements for accelerating the building of a strong maritime nation. In recent years, the MNR, together with relevant departments and coastal regions, has been thoroughly implementing the decisions and arrangements of the Party Central Committee and the State Council and promoting the building of a strong maritime nation. We have made remarkable progress in the following aspects:

First, new characteristics have emerged in the development of the marine economy. We have strengthened efforts to guarantee maritime elements, promoted industries such as aquaculture and offshore wind power to shift from near-shore to deep-sea and far off-shore areas, and promoted the transformation of sea-use patterns from two-dimensional to three-dimensional and multi-purpose utilization. In 2023, the number and area of newly-approved sea-use projects nationwide increased by 47% and 26.6%, respectively, compared with 2022. The gross marine product value in 2023 was 9.9 trillion yuan, and in the first half of this year, it reached 4.9 trillion yuan, with year-on-year growth of 5.6%.  

Second, new progress has been made in the conservation and restoration of marine ecology. We have organized and implemented a series of major projects for marine ecological conservation and restoration, such as the "Blue Bay" environmental improvement initiative, the comprehensive treatment of the Bohai Sea region's water environment, the coastal belts protection and restoration project, and a special action for mangrove protection and restoration. 

Third, new breakthroughs have been made in marine scientific and technological innovation. We have promoted the establishment of the Laoshan Laboratory and developed four national-level marine comprehensive test sites according to the layout of "shallow sea + deep and far sea." We have promoted multiple breakthroughs in key and core technologies in the marine field. The Mengxiang drilling ship has successfully completed its first trial voyage, and the Jiaolong submersible has carried out joint scientific expeditions with multiple countries, sharing its results.

Fourth, new areas have been expanded in marine cooperation and governance. The "Ocean Decade" China Committee has been established. A series of major international cooperation activities in the marine field, such as the World Coastal Forum, have been held. The China Marine Economy Expo has become an internationally influential communication platform. We have continuously organized expeditions to the North and South poles. The Qinling Station, which was completed and put into use this year, is China's fifth Antarctic research station, and also the first facing the Pacific Ocean. We have actively participated in consultations on the regulations for the development of mineral resources in the international seabed areas, and signed the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, also known as the BBNJ Agreement.

Next, we will earnestly implement the arrangements of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, improve the systems and mechanisms for promoting the development of the marine economy, improve the systems for the development and conservation of marine resources, optimize the marine spatial layout, promote marine ecological conservation and restoration and marine early-warning and monitoring, enhance the protection and utilization of the deep-sea and polar regions, and deeply participate in global marine governance, making new contributions to the building of a strong maritime nation. Thank you.

China Daily:

We know that the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program is a major national strategy that has significantly contributed to economic development, environmental protection and the improvement of people's livelihoods. How are the forestry and grassland departments advancing the high-quality development of this program in the new era? Thank you.

Yan Zhen: 

Thank you for your question. As you may be aware, the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program represents the largest ecological project in the world to date. Decades of relentless effort have not only created a "Green Great Wall" across our northern regions but also cultivated the "Three-North Spirit." It is fair to say that this project serves as a global model for ecological governance.

On June 6 last year, General Secretary Xi Jinping made a clarion call to the entire Party to intensify efforts on the program. In response, our department, in collaboration with other relevant departments — particularly with robust support from the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Finance, and with the active involvement of local governments and communities in desert areas — has strengthened overall planning and vigorously engaged in advancing the high-quality development of the project.

Adopting a systematic approach and focusing on seven major wind erosion zones, 34 sandstorm-prone areas, and three primary dust storm paths in the "three-north " region, we have promoted integrated protection and systematic management of mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands and deserts. We emphasize scientific principles, ensuring greenery based on water availability, and combining trees, shrubs and grasses. We are making great efforts to optimize land use, water allocation and seedling resources, as Mr. Liu mentioned in his introduction. Additionally, we have increased the promotion of practical technologies and the application of mechanical equipment. We are also fostering institutional innovation, scientifically and orderly advancing the photovoltaic industry in desert areas, rationally developing feed and economic forest industries, while implementing work-relief programs to enable local residents to participate in the "three-north" program on their doorstep. We have fully launched three landmark campaigns under the "three-north" program since August last year. The campaign for the "U-shaped bend " of the Yellow River focuses on addressing ecological issues such as water disasters, sand hazards and salinization, and reducing the sediment load in the Yellow River. We have initiated 95 key projects in the Mu Us Desert, Kubuqi Desert, Ulan Buh Desert and their edges, aiming to restore a lush and beautiful landscape. Ordos has adopted the "new energy plus" model, planning and laying out a "100-mile photovoltaic belt" along the northern edge of the Kubuqi Desert and the southern area of the Yellow River. The campaign against desertification in the Horqin and Hunshandake sandy lands focuses on addressing the source of sandstorms that affect the Beijing-Tianjin region. We have launched 41 key projects to manage desertified land, restore degraded grasslands, and protect and restore rivers and wetlands, thus building an ecological barrier for the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Liaoning and Inner Mongolia are working together to establish a "1,000-mile sand prevention belt" along the southern edge of the Horqin sandy land. In the Hexi Corridor and the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, 71 key projects have been initiated in major sandstorm-prone areas, areas of drifting sand invasion, and oasis protection gaps to ensure the ecological security of oases. For example, Qinghai province has established 12 barrier points to prevent sand at the desert edges and sources in the Qaidam Basin, Gonghe Basin and Qinghai Lake Basin. In the Aksu region of Xinjiang, the development of forest and grass industries, including walnut, apple and jujube cultivation, has increased the per capita income of local residents by more than 1,000 yuan. With efforts from various parties, the "three-north" program has completed comprehensive management tasks across more than 40 million mu (2.67 million hectares) of land since last year.

Next, we will fully implement the principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, making solid efforts to promote the high-quality development of the "three-north" program. In the new era, we particularly aim to optimize our policies and work together to address the pressing issues and challenges raised at the grassroots level. Furthermore, we will guide various entities to participate extensively in the "three-north" program and strive to win this critical battle. We also welcome the journalists present to visit and see the "three-north" region for yourselves. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

I see there are two journalists whose hands are raised. 

Hongxing News: 

We have noticed that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed the requirement to improve the urban planning system. What are the MNR's considerations in implementing this? Thank you.

Liu Guohong:

Thank you. I would like to invite Mr. Wu to answer this question. 

Wu Haiyang: 

Thank you for your question. Let me take this question. Earlier, Mr. Liu introduced the achievements of the "multi-plan integration" reform since the third plenary session of the 18th CPC Central Committee. After years of effort, and particularly since the institutional reforms in 2018, the territorial spatial planning system proposed by the third plenary session of the 18th CPC Central Committee has largely taken shape. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has now set forth new requirements for improving the urban planning system. The MNR will remain committed to the "multi-plan integration" reform, fully utilizing the fundamental role of territorial spatial planning in promoting coordinated regional development, guiding the coordinated development of cities of different sizes and small towns, and encouraging efficient and closely knit layouts. We will focus our work on the following areas:

First, we will focus on the development of territorial spatial planning for city clusters and metropolitan areas, in order to promote the implementation of major regional strategies. We will accelerate the formulation and implementation of territorial spatial plans for regions such as the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the Yangtze River Delta, the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone, and the Yellow River Basin. We will work to better leverage the influence of city clusters and metropolitan areas, strengthen spatial coordination in aspects such as regional population, resources, the environment, public services, infrastructure, urban development, and industrial and supply chains, thus creating a spatial layout featuring regional coordination and complementary functions.

Second, we will strengthen the guiding and binding role of territorial spatial planning on various specialized plans, leading urban areas toward efficient and closely knit layouts. A coordinated management system for specialized plans related to territorial space will be established to balance the spatial needs of sectors such as transportation, energy, water resources, and municipal services within a single territorial spatial planning framework. This will help resolve spatial conflicts and contradictions, and guide the formation of a spatial structure that conserves resources and protects the environment.

Third, we will promote reforms with detailed plans to create new driving forces and advantages for organic urban renewal. To adapt to the requirements of optimizing existing resources, we will explore approaches to compiling and implementing various types of specific plans, tapping into the unique features and potential of existing resources and assets. In coordination with community living circle development and the advancement of three major projects (government-subsidized housing, redevelopment of urban villages, and development of dual-use public infrastructure that can accommodate emergency needs), we will optimize existing spatial structures, enhance urban service functions, and stimulate urban development vitality, fostering new growth areas for regional development.

Additionally, we will step up efforts in establishing sound, united, well-aligned systems for regulating the use of territorial space of all types across the country and for approving territorial space plans, advance the supervision system for implementing territorial space plans, and create an efficient, unified digital governance system for territorial space. These efforts aim to transform planning blueprints into reality, supporting the construction of beautiful cities.

That's all I have to say. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Please continue with the last question.

Phoenix TV:

The Xiamen Approach has provided invaluable experience for the ecological governance of bay-type cities. We've noticed that this approach has been applied in many inland areas. Could you please elaborate on the relevant progress? Thank you.

Liu Guohong:

Thank you for your interest in the Xiamen Approach and for your question. I'd like to express my gratitude to the media for their in-depth reporting and extensive coverage of the Xiamen Approach since last year. Now, I'll provide more information.

The Xiamen Approach represents an approach to urban water management and ecological construction that General Secretary Xi Jinping personally initiated during his work in Xiamen. Starting with the comprehensive management of Yundang Lake, the approach has contributed to the ecological preservation and restoration both inside and outside of the island, with the coverage expanding from the sea area and watersheds to the whole area, coordinating land and sea, as well as rivers and lakes. It has optimized the urban spatial layout, built a beautiful living environment, and enhanced the resilience and vitality of the coastal area, setting a fine example in practically promoting harmony between humanity and nature and building a Beautiful China.

The experience of the Xiamen Approach has expanded from Xiamen to entire Fujian, then to Zhejiang, and now nationwide. Like a spark igniting a prairie fire, it has inspired numerous practices across China for integrated protection and systematic governance of mountain, water, forest, farmland, grassland, and desert ecosystems. Let me share two examples. The first one is Dongtou district in Wenzhou, Zhenjiang province. By implementing the Blue Bay Remediation Project, the district has improved its marine and island eco-environment, enabling residents to benefit from the sea in new ways. This green development path highlights the sea’s charm and preserves nostalgia. The once small fishing village is now a popular tourist destination. Another example is Beihai in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. Some of you may have visited Fengjiajiang River in Beihai, especially the Jinhaiwan Mangrove Wetlands, for birdwatching or seaside views. You may not know that over 10 years ago, Fengjiajiang River was a heavily polluted urban river. Over the years, the local government has coordinatively promoted pollution prevention and control, beach restoration, and mangrove conservation. These efforts have resulted in the construction of a "green ribbon," extending from the urban area of Beihai to the Jinhaiwan Mangrove Wetlands, which has become a great place for residents to relax and for tourists to sightsee. There are many such examples across our country, which together paint a vivid picture of harmony between humanity and nature.

To deeply study and apply the Xiamen Approach, the MNR has continued to carry out various promotional activities since the beginning of this year. During this year's World Oceans Day on Jun. 8, 12 cities, including Beijing, jointly launched a Xiamen Initiative to promote ecological progress. Recently, the MNR, together with relevant departments, jointly issued a policy document on studying and applying the Xiamen Approach. We plan to advance ecological protection and restoration comprehensively across all regions throughout the entire process, considering all elements.

Moving forward, we will deeply study and faithfully implement the Xiamen Approach, promoting the integrated protection and systematic governance of mountain, water, forest, farmland, grassland, and desert ecosystems. We aim to build a comprehensive protection and governance framework that extends from mountaintops to the ocean, striving to open new horizons in the construction of a Beautiful China.

That's all for my answer. Thank you again!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Liu, to all the speakers and journalists. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Yuan Fang, Xu Kailin, Wang Yanfang, Gong Yingchun, Zhou Jing, Mi Xingang, Wang Wei, Li Xiao, Wang Qian, Liao Jiaxin, Zhang Junmian, Li Huiru, Zhang Lulu, Ma Yujia, Wang Ziteng, Liu Sitong, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Zhou Jinqiang, vice minister of the General Administration of Sport of China (GASC)

Mr. Ding Dong, director general of the Sport for All Department of the GASC

Mr. Zhang Xin, director general of the Competitive Sports Department of the GASC

Ms. Yang Xuedong, director general of the Sports Economy Department of the GASC

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 18, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Zhou Jinqiang, vice minister of the General Administration of Sport of China (GASC), to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Ding Dong, director general of the Sport for All Department of the GASC; Mr. Zhang Xin, director general of the Competitive Sports Department of the GASC; and Ms. Yang Xuedong, director general of the Sports Economy Department of the GASC.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhou for his introduction.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning. I am very pleased to attend today's press conference with my three colleagues. First, on behalf of the GASC, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude and sincere respect to the journalists who have long supported the development of our sports industry.

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), we have earnestly studied Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, along with General Secretary Xi Jinping's important remarks on sports, and a series of key directives. We have diligently implemented the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, actively applied the new development philosophy, and coordinated efforts to advance the high-quality development of sports. Fitness has now flourished nationwide, competitive sports have achieved remarkable success, youth sports are vibrant, and the sports industry is growing rapidly. These efforts have ushered in a new phase in building China into a leading sports nation.

First, services for national fitness are meeting the new demands of the people. We adhere to the principle of putting people first and have made great efforts to address the public's fitness challenges. The national fitness system and the policy framework have been gradually improved, alleviating the issue of "where to exercise" to some extent. Nationwide, fitness activities have been widely promoted, the fitness network has been increasingly refined, and fitness facilities have been rapidly improved. A wave of enthusiasm for national fitness has swept across the country, playing a significant role in meeting the people's growing desire for a better life. The proportion of Chinese people who regularly engage in physical exercise has reached 37.2%. By the end of 2023, the per capita area of sports facilities reached 2.89 square meters, surpassing the standard of 2.6 square meters set in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) ahead of schedule.

Second, the achievements in competitive sports highlight our new image as a great country. We have aligned with the requirements for building a sports powerhouse, worked to refine the national system for competitive sports, and continuously enhanced our capacity to bring glory to the country. The overall strength and international influence of our competitive sports have been steadily growing. From 2012 to 2023, Chinese athletes won a total of 1,244 world championships and broke 161 world records. At the recently concluded Paris Olympics, our athletes secured 40 gold medals, 27 silver medals and 24 bronze medals, marking China's best performance in an overseas competition since our participation in the Summer Olympics in 1984. This accomplishment firmly places us among the world's leading sports powerhouses and strongest Olympic nations. Our athletes have reached new heights on the international sports stage and in global competitions, fostering patriotism and uplifting national spirit through the power of sports. They have presented a refreshed image of China in the new era and showcased the tremendous achievements of our socialist modernization to the world.

Third, youth sports have injected new vitality into talent development. We have fully leveraged the critical role of sports in promoting holistic human development, actively deepened the integration of sports and education, and stimulated the motivation and dynamism of youth sports development, striving to improve the health of young people. We have promoted the integrated development of sports schools, regular schools and youth clubs, leading to an increasingly diverse range of youth sports events. Both the youth event and youth training systems are continuously being improved, providing a more solid foundation for cultivating the talent reserve. Through activities such as the "Happy Run, Passionate Youth" National Youth Sunshine Sports Conference, we aim to set a leading example, encouraging more children to run, jump and be active. With a focus on common physical issues among young people, such as obesity, poor eyesight and scoliosis, we have widely implemented initiatives for promoting science-based fitness and health interventions among them.

Fourth, new driving forces have been forged as the sports industry develops. We have insisted on expanding consumption and continued to promote the rapid development of the sports industry, consistently releasing market potential and significantly improving its position and function in the national economy. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, China's sports industry has significantly expanded in scale and added value. Its growth has outpaced the country's overall GDP growth rate for the same period, accounting for an increasing share of annual GDP. From 2012 to 2022, the annual average growth of the sports industry's added value reached 15.4%, with its proportion of annual GDP increasing from 0.6% to 1.08%. In 2023, China's imports and exports of the main sports service trade reached 52.89 billion yuan, up 178% from the previous year. Currently, China has established a sports industry system led by competitive events, performances, leisure and fitness and complemented by sports venue services, athletic training, and sports-related manufacturing and media.

China's sports sector has achieved significant progress, but it's still at a critical juncture, transforming scale into strength while facing many challenges. Weaknesses remain in public fitness service capacity and the development of football, basketball and volleyball. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made clear arrangements for deepening all-round reform in the sports sector, providing direction and momentum for enhancing national athletic prowess. Recently, General Secretary Xi Jinping met with the Chinese delegation to the 33rd Summer Olympic Games, praising the athletes' achievements and spirit while calling for humility, prudence and persistent efforts to build on the country's sporting prowess. We will continue to empower high-quality sports development through reform and innovation, fulfilling new responsibilities and making new efforts to deepen all-round sports reform, aiming to build China into a sports powerhouse.

That's all for now. My colleagues and I are now ready to take your questions.

Shou Xiaoli:

The floor is now open for questions.

Xinhua News Agency:

The Chinese sports delegation's remarkable performance at the Paris Olympics electrified and inspired the nation. Now, expectations are high for further reforms to boost the country's overall competitive sports prowess. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee decided to reform and improve the management systems and operating mechanisms for competitive sports. What are the direction and objectives of this reform? How will you implement this strategy?

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you for your questions. The Chinese sports delegation achieved remarkable results at the Paris Olympics, making breakthroughs in various aspects. This marked a solid step forward in our journey to become a sports powerhouse. This success has boosted our confidence in accelerating the development of China as a strong sporting nation and strengthened our resolve to deepen reforms in competitive sports.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee set clear requirements for reforming competitive sport management systems and operating mechanisms, charting the course for deeper reforms in the field. Our general reform approach is to uphold openness and cooperation to boost competitive sports. We will deepen the combination of the system for mobilizing nationwide resources and market mechanisms, paying more attention to leveraging the role of the market mechanisms. Our aim is to quickly form management systems and operating mechanisms for competitive sports that engage the government, society, the market and individuals, achieving openness, common benefits and full vitality.

The concrete measures involve three aspects: First, setting high standards. We will focus more on leveraging the comprehensive value and unique functions of competitive sports, emulating world sports powerhouses. While strengthening advantageous sports, we will emphasize improving basic major sports (track and field, swimming and water sports) as well as football, basketball and volleyball. The high-quality development and excellent achievements of competitive sports are expected to boost the rapid development of public sports, youth sports and the sports industry. Second, implementing high-level leadership. We will study and formulate plans for achieving Olympic glory in the new era, further enhance top-level design, establish a more systematic and refined policy system to better facilitate the high-quality development of competitive sports, and elevate governance capabilities and standards in the field. Third, maintaining highly efficient coordination. We will coordinate efforts across summer and winter sports, balance focus between advantageous and disadvantageous sports, and harmonize strategies for the eastern and western regions. We will implement category-based management according to the distinctive features of different sports. Suitable sports will be professionalized. Social forces will be mobilized to promote emerging sports. We will further optimize resource allocation, sports structure, distribution and regional development patterns to encourage coordinated and balanced development in competitive sports nationwide. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily:

Sports related to popular competitive events have seen surging interest, with sports venues in many areas fully booked and tennis courts nearly impossible to reserve. What steps will you take to meet the public's growing demand for sports spending? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you for your question. I'll ask Ms. Yang from the Sports Economy Department to respond.

Yang Xuedong:

Thank you for your question. As the economy and society have developed in recent years, particularly since Fitness-for-All became a national strategy, public enthusiasm for sports participation and spending has soared. Sports consumption loyalty has strengthened, with more people engaging in various activities. We've made significant efforts to meet people's aspirations for a better life, and Mr. Zhou has just briefed you on the achievements in promoting public sports participation. However, imbalances and inadequacies persist, as evidenced by the difficulty in booking tennis courts, which you mentioned, reflecting the mismatch between supply and demand. Looking ahead, we will focus on improving supply in three areas to meet consumer demand.

First, we will enhance the supply of venues and facilities. On one hand, we will fully leverage the leading, motivational and demonstrative role of central government budget investments, while widely mobilizing social resources to increase sports facility construction. We will also expand free or low-cost access to public sports venues to facilitate public participation. On the other hand, we will promote smart upgrades of sports venues, encourage off-peak usage among the public, and fully utilize new technologies to increase facility utilization rates.

Second, we will increase the supply of sports products. In manufacturing, we'll accelerate the application of new technologies and materials in sports goods, promote industry transformation and upgrades, develop smart equipment and intelligent venues, and integrate more smart technologies into products and consumer scenarios. In services, we'll increase sports event offerings and provide multi-level, diverse, and personalized sports services to better meet public needs.

Finally, we will roll out more policy measures. We'll further strengthen communication and coordination with the National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Ministry of Commerce, and Ministry of Culture and Tourism. We'll formulate and implement policies for upgrading sports products and developing high-quality outdoor sports destinations. We'll continue to address policy bottlenecks and challenges to optimize the development environment and stimulate market vitality. Thank you.

The Poster News APP:

In recent years, issues like myopia, obesity, and poor posture among Chinese youth have drawn ongoing social attention. How can we leverage sports to improve their health? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

I'll invite Mr. Zhang from the Competitive Sports Department to answer this question.

Zhang Xin:

Thank you for your question. The healthy growth of young people is crucial to national development and our future. In recent years, the General Administration of Sport has earnestly implemented the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping, consistently upholding the "health first" education principle and intensifying efforts to harness sports' unique role in promoting youth well-being.

On the one hand, we've promoted youth sports activities through themed, demonstrative events. Since 2021, the General Administration of Sport has collaborated with multiple departments to implement the "Run, Youth" themed fitness activity. This initiative engages all youth in sports competitions, sports culture education, health assessments, and skill demonstrations. With over 120 million young participants, it has made a wide-reaching societal impact. In August this year, we held a national youth sports event in Nanchang, Jiangxi province, where over 2,000 young people from across the country participated in activities like football, basketball, volleyball, martial arts, roller skating, jump rope, and rock climbing. Olympic champion Pan Zhanle and other athletes encouraged youth to build their bodies and challenge themselves through physical exercise in sports venues and outdoors, sparking renewed passion for sports among teenagers. In summary, we're making multifaceted efforts to help young people understand, learn, love and enjoy sports, using sports' power to safeguard their health and well-being.

In addition, following the principle of promoting scientifically-backed physical exercises, the GASC has intensified efforts to improve the physical well-being of young people. Addressing issues such as myopia, obesity, scoliosis and mental health among youth, the GASC has sought public input and enlisted experts to develop exercise guidelines and intervention strategies. A series of books has been compiled to promote fitness knowledge, along with exercises designed to prevent myopia and improve spinal health. The GASC has also created sports games and curricula on physical activity and health, continuing to offer scientifically supported exercise programs for youth. Meanwhile, the GASC has established an online platform to disseminate health-related information among youngsters and regularly launched related animated video broadcasts and expert livestreaming events, which have attracted over 345 million views to date.

That covers everything for now. Thank you.

China Daily:

Chinese athletes excelled at the recently concluded 2024 Paris Olympics. Similarly, many ordinary Chinese fitness enthusiasts also look forward to having platforms to showcase their abilities. What plans does the GASC have for launching and promoting more local sporting competitions that are accessible to the public? What progress has been made so far? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you. Mr. Ding will answer your questions.

Ding Dong:

Thank you for your questions. Competitions and sporting events serve as catalysts to promote public fitness. In recent years, the GASC has implemented comprehensive policies and taken multiple measures. The main efforts are as follows:

First, mass sports events at the National Games, the National Fitness Competition, and community-based athletic contests are spearheading efforts to provide public fitness programs. In accordance with the goal of promoting widespread participation in the National Games and ensuring their benefits reach all, the 15th National Games in 2025 will feature 23 categories and 166 events in mass sports. Currently, qualifying events are being held nationwide, allowing fitness enthusiasts to showcase their progress. This year, embracing the concept of providing a national competitive platform for the public and making competitions accessible to all, the GASC took an innovative approach by launching the inaugural National Fitness Competition. The event comprises seven competition zones and aims to create a nationwide public fitness contest that people can choose, join, organize and benefit from. Our goal is to promote a growing sense of fulfillment and well-being among participants.

Second, the GASC is launching themed public fitness programs throughout the year in chronological order while enhancing brand building. These programs have included New Year's Day mountain climbing activities, a Spring Festival-themed public fitness initiative, and a Grand Canal-themed brisk walking program in May. In June, public fitness initiatives commemorated Chairman Mao Zedong's slogan, "Promoting physical culture and sports; strengthening the people's physique," followed by National Fitness Day in August and the Chinese Farmers' Harvest Festival in September. The year will conclude with a Chongyang Festival-themed fitness program for aged people in October and the National Public Ice and Snow Season in December. Notably, during this year's inaugural nationwide Spring Festival-themed public fitness initiative, cities across the country incorporated public fitness activities into their overall festive celebrations. Incomplete statistics show that more than 7,200 public competitions were held during the Spring Festival holiday this year, with more than 10 million people participating directly.

Third, the GASC is intensifying efforts to promote and popularize football, basketball, volleyball and ice and snow sports activities nationwide. The GASC has enhanced its support, promotion and development of popular mass sports programs, such as the Village Super League, the Village Basketball League, and the Village Volleyball League. It has further consolidated and expanded the achievement of engaging 300 million people in winter sports, leveraged the leading and demonstrative role of themed events such as the National Public Ice and Snow Season, and helped the public to learn and master winter sports. Additionally, the GASC has enhanced collaboration between online and in-person initiatives. The online public fitness games, already successfully held twice, launched its third edition this year. In 2023, 22.6 million people participated directly in this online event, with over 17 million participation certificates issued.

Moving forward, the GASC will continue to motivate and mobilize the support of Party committees and governments at all levels. It aims to further diversify mass sports offerings, improve related systemic arrangements, enhance event safety and regulation, and continuously boost public enthusiasm for participation.

This concludes my response. Thank you.

Cover News:

In recent years, an increasing number of people are engaging in fitness and workout activities. What measures has the GASC taken to meet the growing demand for fitness? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Mr. Ding will also address this question.

Ding Dong:

Thank you for your question. As you mentioned, there has been a growing awareness of physical fitness in recent years. Simultaneously, people are increasingly concerned about the quality of fitness activities, focusing on factors such as convenient venues, friendly environment, the scientific basis of training methods and progress tracking. We believe that people's primary concerns in this field revolve around whether they can exercise, whether they understand how to exercise and how they can exercise properly. The GASC has proactively collaborated with governments at all levels and relevant departments to implement various measures to address people's concerns.

First, fitness-for-all venues and facilities have been built to ensure people have somewhere they can exercise. We introduced a series of policies and standards to accelerate the construction of sports parks, public fitness centers, fitness walking paths, public football pitches, public skating rinks, and other public fitness facilities. During the 14th Five-Year-Plan period, the GASC worked with relevant departments, and supported local governments to carry out 17,000 fitness facility projects with a total of 2.3 billion yuan. Sports venues are encouraged to open to the public for free or at a low fee. By the end of 2023, the area of sports fields per capita reached 2.89 square meters, and the total length of fitness walking paths nationwide exceeded 371,000 kilometers, which has effectively facilitated the public to participate in physical exercise.

Second, fitness-for-all information has been offered to guide people in how to exercise correctly. In recent years, a range of fitness guidance campaigns have been initiated across the country, such as grassroots fitness instructions, fitness lectures and national physical fitness tests. Fitness knowledge and directions have been brought into schools, rural areas, communities and enterprises. We actively researched popular fitness methods, produced simple and easy fitness short videos and programs, and released science popularization works on sports safety to the public. We have also carried out fitness-for-all volunteer service activities for three years, and selected 313 excellent cases throughout the country. As more volunteers and organizations have taken part in the fitness-for-all services, the overall capability of fitness-for-all volunteer services have been improved significantly.

Third, fitness-for-all competitions and activities have been organized to ensure people can exercise well. At present, mass events of the National Games, the national fitness-for-all competition, and community games have become very popular, and eight nationwide fitness-for-all activities have been held annually, including New Year's climbing events and Fitness-for-All Day. In addition, a number of mass sports events sponsored by various social sports organizations on football, basketball, volleyball and winter sports have been widely promoted to provide more platforms for the public to showcase their fitness achievements. Thank you.

Science and Technology Daily:

A large amount of advanced sports equipment created in China shone at the recently concluded Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Could you briefly introduce this topic? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you. I would like to invite Ms. Yang to answer your question.

Yang Xuedong:

Thank you for your question. As an important part of the sports industry, the sporting goods and equipment sector accounts for half of the entire industry. In recent years, we have vigorously boosted the transformation and upgrading of the sporting goods and equipment sector, and advanced the innovation capabilities of sporting goods manufacturing enterprises. Two batches of specialized and sophisticated enterprises that produce new and unique products as well as single-product specialists in the manufacturing industry have been released for the sports industry. So far, the number of these two kinds of enterprises has reached 80 and 15, respectively. The quality and influence of Chinese sports products has constantly been advanced.

At the just concluded Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Chinese athletes achieved successes in both sports competition and sportsmanship, realizing the goal of achieving the best possible athletic results at the event. Innovative products made by Chinese enterprises also stood out at the Games. For example, the colored table tennis tables and the Chinese-made barbells impressed the global audiences. In terms of new technology applications, the "bullet time" multi-camera replay system, deployed at the beach volleyball, tennis, judo and other venues, provided viewers with cinematic effects like freeze-frame views for the first time in a summer Olympics. In terms of new material utilization, the Chinese team's bicycles used in the track cycling events were made from T1100 carbon fiber. The weight of each bicycle frame was only 1,150 grams, which is among the lightest for similar products anywhere in the world. In terms of new concept implementation, the floors in the 3x3 basketball and table tennis venues were made from recyclable rubber, demonstrating an environmentally friendly approach featuring green and low-carbon development. The appearance of these products in the international arena has further enhanced the image of Chinese sports enterprises, showcasing the country's sci-tech innovation and manufacturing capabilities, and reflecting China's determination to drive the industrial chain development toward medium and high-end.

Our next steps will be to focus on both the government and the market. On the government side, we will continue to improve policies. We will work with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) to formulate and issue policy documents to promote the high-quality development of the sporting goods manufacturing sector and optimize the business environment. On the market side, we will continue building brands, creating a number of high-end "intelligent manufacturing in China" brands in the sports sector, cultivating more world-class sports companies, accelerating the transformation and upgrading of sporting goods manufacturing, and further increasing international competitiveness.

This is all that I have to share with you. Thank you.

CCTV:

The 2024 Paris Olympics led to increased interest in physical fitness and exercise across the country, also promoting a surge in sports-related consumer spending. In light of the relevant measures introduced to capitalize on this sports economy, could you brief us on the relevant progress and specific developments? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

I will take this question. Sports events have a huge driving effect on the sports economy. In accordance with the unified directives of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we have partnered with the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) on two initiatives: "bringing sports events into scenic spots, neighborhoods, and business districts" and "traveling with sports events." These two initiatives have generated widespread enthusiasm across society and the tourism market, achieving positive social outcomes. Now is the middle of the year, and the overall figures have not yet been counted, but I can share two examples. First, the Olympic Qualifier Series Shanghai held in May this year attracted 45,000 domestic and international spectators, generating 643 million yuan in direct economic returns and 1.402 billion yuan in indirect benefits. Second, from January to August, Fujian province hosted 542 similar events, with 2.48 million participants, driving 3.685 billion yuan in various types of consumption, a 21% year-on-year increase. In July, to better implement these two initiatives, we worked with the MCT to release a 2024 summer national outdoor sports event catalog for the "traveling with sports events" initiative. This combines summer leisure activities with the excitement of the 2024 Paris Olympics, continuously unlocking consumption potential.

The driving effect of the 2024 Paris Olympics on the sports industry is also  significant, which can be summarized as the three "mores." First, niche sports have become more popular. Sports like BMX, street dance, rock climbing, breakdancing, and tennis have attracted considerable attention. According to statistics, in July, tennis-related group purchases on the e-commerce platform Meituan increased by 172%. Second, the ways people watch sports have become more innovative. In addition to traditional TV and new media outlets, people are now watching live events in cinemas, creating a more immersive atmosphere and more engagement. During the Paris Olympics, we received much feedback about this trend, suggesting it could be a promising development trend in the future. Finally, the economic impact has been more pronounced. Data from platforms like Douyin and Kuaishou show that during the Olympics this year, sales of viewing-related items, such as alcoholic beverages, food and digital home appliances, more than doubled compared to the previous year. This is a brief overview of the recent developments.

Looking ahead, we will focus on three areas. First, we will fully leverage policy measures. We will introduce more policies to maximize benefits, develop regulations related to sports events, address bottlenecks, and further enrich the scenarios for sports event consumption. Second, we will make good use of sports initiatives. We will continue to work with relevant departments to promote the "traveling with sports events" and "bringing sports events into scenic spots, neighborhoods, and business districts" initiatives, as mentioned just now, to enhance their impact. Third, we will strengthen publicity efforts. We will summarize and promote successful experiences and practices from various places in developing the sports event economy and boosting sports consumption. We've already issued the first batch of practical cases for the sports event economy, and a second batch is in preparation to further guide its development. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

We've noticed a rapid growth in demand for youth sport training. How do you plan to further guide and regulate services in this sector? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you. I will invite Mr. Zhang to answer this question.

Zhang Xin:

Thank you for your question. Youth sports training institutions are vital platforms for teenagers to participate in physical exercise, learn sports skills and improve their competitive abilities. In recent years, these institutions have developed rapidly, growing in number and offering diverse, innovative content to meet the growing demand for sports training among teenagers. Statistics show that there are now over 30,000 youth sports training institutions in China. Managing and effectively utilizing these institutions is a significant challenge for us.

To address this, the GASC has issued documents such as the "Code of Conduct for Extracurricular Sports Training" and "Opinions on Further Standardizing and Developing Sports Training," establishing an initial regulatory policy framework. We've guided local sports administrations to introduce standards for sports training institutions, implement regulatory responsibilities at various levels, and establish working mechanisms. At present, some localities have developed effective practices in providing guidance and services, standardizing personnel qualifications, and improving regulatory mechanisms. These include creating databases of training institutions and "white lists" of employees, conducting training credit evaluations and unified personnel training, developing a regulatory information database and implementing a dynamic management system for training institutions. By continually regulating the youth sports training industry, we aim to foster a healthy and orderly environment, ensuring parents can enroll their children with confidence and children can learn with enjoyment. Thank you all.

Jinan Times app:

Convenient access to physical exercise is an issue of great concern to the public. Many regions now have numerous well-equipped sports facilities. Given this, how is the GASC working to ensure these public sports venues are accessible to the community at large? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

I'll invite Mr. Ding to answer this question.

Ding Dong:

Thank you for your question. Public sports venues are crucial for national fitness activities, and their accessibility greatly impacts the public's ability to engage in physical exercise. The GASC places high importance on maximizing public access to these facilities. We actively work with relevant departments to improve the utilization rate and service quality of public sports venues.

Specifically, we have refined the allocation of central government funds and expanded the scope of support for public sports venues. The subsidy criteria now consider factors such as the number of eligible venues in each region, the open area for fitness activities, and annual visitor numbers, rather than just seating capacity. The subsidy now includes popular, eligible small- and medium-sized venues and national fitness centers, not just large venues. Funds can be used for hosting non-profit sports events, sports training, daily maintenance, equipment upgrades, and improving venue information technology services.

Concerning venue services, we've formulated supporting policies and documents relating to basic public service standards for public sports venues and guidelines for evaluating free or low-cost open services. These policies outline specific requirements for venue accessibility and service content, stipulating that low-fee pricing should generally not exceed 70% of local market rates. More preferential services are mandated for the elderly, disabled individuals, students, military personnel, and firefighters, as well as for non-profit community sports events. The standard fees for these groups are typically required to be no more than half the market price.

To enhance supervision and evaluation, we've guided localities to strengthen supervision and evaluation in areas such as hosting sports events and training programs, supporting school sports programs, and providing facilities for non-profit sports organizations. We require annual  publication of venue usage data on the National Fitness Information Service Platform for public scrutiny. At the same time, we commission third-party agencies to conduct annual inspections and evaluations of venue operations across the country.

Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan period, we have allocated about 1 billion yuan annually to support public sports venues opening to the public for free or at reduced prices. The number of subsidized venues has increased from over 1,000 per year to more than 3,000 now. According to statistics, 3,050 eligible public sports venues are open to the public for free or at low cost in 2024, covering nearly 1,600 county-level administrative areas. The core areas of these venues that are free or low-cost cover over 25 million square meters. We estimate that more than 500 million people will benefit from this initiative.

That's all from me. Thank you.

The Beijing News:

With the conclusion of the Paris Olympics, a new Olympic cycle has begun. What's the outlook for China's participation in the Los Angeles Olympics? What are your expectations for China's performance? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

We will have Mr. Zhang answer this question.

Zhang Xin:

Thank you for your question. The 34th Summer Olympic Games will be held in Los Angeles, United States, in 2028. After the Paris Olympics, we face a series of new challenges based on the analysis of global competitive sports in the new cycle and changes in the Los Angeles Olympics' program.

Competitive sports always face challenges, and China's competitive sports boldly meet these head-on. We will thoroughly study and implement the spirit of General Secretary Xi Jinping's important speech when meeting with China's Olympic delegation for the Paris Games. We'll improve scientific training methods, build on our strengths while addressing weaknesses, accelerate talent development, and make high-quality preparations for the Los Angeles Olympics. On the one hand, we'll firmly consolidate our country's strong performance in advantageous sports to compete for gold and medals. On the other hand, we'll make great efforts to tap potential in basic events like track and field and swimming, as well as emerging and combat sports. Simultaneously, we'll speed up the revitalization of basketball, volleyball, and soccer, continuously improving China's competitiveness and influence on the world competitive sports stage.

We are convinced that with the care and attention of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, as well as the strong support of the Chinese people, as long as we make strenuous efforts, carry forward China's sporting spirit, unite and work hard, and courageously strive for the best while continuing to scale new heights, we are sure to continue to demonstrate the demeanor of Chinese athletes at the Los Angeles Olympic Games. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

One last question, please.

China Financial and Economic News:

In recent years, the outdoor sports industry has attracted wide attention. What measures will be taken in the next step to further develop this industry? Thank you.

Zhou Jinqiang:

Thank you for your questions. We will have Ms. Yang to answer this question.

Yang Xuedong:

Thank you for your question. The outdoor sports industry is a green industry and an effective way to practice General Secretary Xi Jinping's concepts that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" and "ice and snow are also invaluable assets." The third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee proposed accelerating the improvement of the institutions and mechanisms for applying the principle that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. Last month, the Party Central Committee and State Council issued opinions on ramping up the green transition in all areas of economic and social development, providing systematic plans. These have created rare opportunities for the outdoor sports industry's development. Next, we will seize these opportunities and focus on three main aspects to further promote high-quality development in the outdoor sports industry.

Regarding government services optimization, we'll continue improving policies for the outdoor sports industry. We'll work with the National Development and Reform Commission and other departments to implement the Development Plan for the Outdoor Sports Industry (2022-2025) and the Action Plan for Advancing Infrastructure Construction and Service Improvement for Outdoor Sports (2023-2025). We'll accelerate research on measures to further promote the industry's development, such as policies to use winter sports to drive the ice-and-snow economy, and develop high-quality outdoor sports destinations. We'll continuously optimize the development environment to advance high-quality growth in the outdoor sports industry.

In terms of strengthening market supply, we'll continue to enhance the construction of outdoor sports venues and facilities. We'll fully mobilize social forces, coordinate various funding channels, encourage social capital investment, and advance the construction of outdoor venues and facilities such as mountain camps, aviation flight camps, road trip sports camps, sports boat docks and ski resorts. This will further consolidate the foundation for outdoor sports development.

To promote social demand, we'll continue to diversify the supply of outdoor sports products and services. Last October, we held the first China Outdoor Sports Industry Conference in Dali, Yunnan Province, leading new trends in outdoor sports. Last week, we held the launch ceremony for the 2024 China Outdoor Sports Industry Conference. We'll gather industry resources, improve supply-demand matching platforms, and further diversify outdoor sports products and services. We hope you'll pay more attention to and support these efforts.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thanks to Mr. Zhou and all the speakers. Thanks for the participation of friends from the media. Today's briefing is hereby concluded. See you.

Translated and edited by Liu Caiyi, Wang Wei, Liu Sitong, Zhang Rui, Zhang Jiaqi, Ma Yujia, Zhu Bochen, Lin Liyao, Wang Qian, Yan Bin, Liu Qiang, Zhang Tingting, Li Huiru, Xu Kailin, Yuan Fang, David Ball, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speaker:

Ms. Liu Aihua, spokesperson and chief economist of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and director general of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 14, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This is a regular briefing on China's economic data. Today. We are joined by Ms. Liu Aihua, spokesperson and chief economist of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and director general of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS. Ms. Liu will brief you on China's national economic performance in August 2024 and then take your questions.

Now, I'll give the floor to Ms. Liu for her introduction.

Liu Aihua:

Now, I'll brief you on the economic performance in August this year.

The national economy was generally stable in August this year. In August, under the strong leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, all regions and departments strictly implemented the decisions and arrangements made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. All regions and departments adhered to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, strengthened macro-regulation, and strove to promote high-quality development. As a result, production and demand sustained a recovery, employment and prices were basically stable, and high-quality development continued to move ahead. The national economy maintained stability in general while making steady progress.

First, the industrial production increased steadily with fast growth in equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing.

In August, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size grew by 4.5% year on year, or up by 0.32% month on month. In terms of sectors, the value added of mining went up by 3.7% year on year, manufacturing up by 4.3%, and the production and supply of electricity, thermal power, gas and water up by 6.8%. The value added of equipment manufacturing increased by 6.4% year on year, and that of high-tech manufacturing increased by 8.6%, 1.9 percentage points and 4.1 percentage points faster than that of the total value added by industrial enterprises above designated size. An analysis by types of ownership showed that the value added of state-holding enterprises was up by 3.6% year on year; that of share-holding enterprises was up by 5.0%; that of enterprises funded by foreign investors or investors from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan was up by 2.8%; and that of private enterprises was up by 4.5%. In terms of products, the production of new-energy vehicles, service robots and integrated circuits grew by 30.5%, 20.1% and 17.8% year on year, respectively. In the first eight months, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size went up by 5.8% year on year. In August, the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index stood at 49.1%, and the Production and Operation Expectation Index was 52.0%. In the first seven months, the total profits made by industrial enterprises above designated size were 4,099.2 billion yuan, up by 3.6% year on year.

Second, the service sector continued to recover and the modern services sector developed well. 

In August, the Index of Services Production grew by 4.6% year on year. Specifically, that of information transmission, software and information technology services, leasing and business services, financial intermediation, transport, storage and postal services grew by 12.1%, 9.4%, 5.7% and 5.2% year on year, respectively, which was 7.5 percentage points, 4.8 percentage points, 1.1 percentage points and 0.6 percentage point faster than that of the Index of Services Production. In the first eight months, the Index of Services Production increased by 4.9% year on year. In the first seven months, the business revenue of service enterprises above designated size went up by 7.4% year on year. In August, the Business Activity Index for Services was 50.2% and the Business Activity Expectation Index for Services was 55.4%. Specifically, the Business Activity Index for railway transportation, air transportation, postal services, telecommunication, broadcast, television and satellite transmission services, and culture, sports and recreation stayed within the high expansion range of 55.0% and above. 

Third, the market sales kept increasing and online retail sales grew rapidly. 

In August, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 3,872.6 billion yuan, up by 2.1% year on year, or down by 0.01% month on month. Analyzed by different areas, the retail sales of consumer goods in urban areas reached 3,357.5 billion yuan, up by 1.8% year on year; and that in rural areas reached 515.1 billion yuan, up by 3.9%. Grouped by types of consumption, the retail sales of goods were 3,437.5 billion yuan, up by 1.9%; the income of catering was 435.1 billion yuan, up by 3.3%. Certain basic living goods and upgraded goods sold well. The retail sales of grain, oil, and food and that of traditional Chinese and western medicines by enterprises above designated size went up by 10.1% and 4.3% respectively; the retail sales of telecommunication equipment and that of household appliances and audio-video equipment went up by 14.8% and 3.4% respectively. In the first eight months, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 31,245.2 billion yuan, up by 3.4% year on year. The online retail sales were 9,635.2 billion yuan, up by 8.9% year on year. Specifically, the online retail sales of physical goods were 8,014.3 billion yuan, up by 8.1%, accounting for 25.6% of the total retail sales of consumer goods. In the first eight months, the retail sales of services grew by 6.9% year on year. 

Fourth, the investment in fixed assets scaled up and investment in high-tech industries grew quickly.

In the first eight months, the investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) reached 32,938.5 billion yuan, up by 3.4% year on year; the investment in fixed assets was up by 7.7% with the investment in real estate development deducted. Specifically, the investment in infrastructure grew by 4.4% year on year, that in manufacturing grew by 9.1%, and that in real estate development declined by 10.2%. The floor space of new commercial buildings sold was 606.02 million square meters, down by 18.0% year on year; the total sales of new commercial buildings were 5,972.3 billion yuan, down by 23.6%. By industry, the investment in the primary industry went up by 2.9% year on year, that in the secondary industry up by 12.1%, and that in the tertiary industry down by 0.8%. The private investment declined by 0.2% year on year, and increased by 6.3% with the investment in real estate development deducted. The investment in high-tech industries grew by 10.2% year on year, of which the investment in high-tech manufacturing and high-tech services grew by 9.6% and 11.7%, respectively. In terms of high-tech manufacturing, the investment in manufacturing of aerospace vehicle and equipment and in manufacturing of electronic and communication equipment grew by 34.4% and 10.0%, respectively. In terms of high-tech services, the investment in professional technical services and in e-commerce services grew by 27.7% and 16.8%, respectively. In August, the investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) increased by 0.16% month on month.

Fifth, imports and exports of goods grew quickly and trade structure continued to optimize.

In August, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 3,752.3 billion yuan, up by 4.8% year on year. The value of exports was 2,200.8 billion yuan, up by 8.4%, and the value of imports was 1,551.5 billion yuan, maintaining the same level year on year. The trade balance was 649.3 billion yuan in surplus. In the first eight months, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 28,583.8 billion yuan, up by 6.0%. The total value of exports was 16,455.2 billion yuan, up by 6.9%. The total value of imports was 12,128.6 billion yuan, up by 4.7%. In the first eight months, the imports and exports of general trade went up by 4.6%, accounting for 64.6% of the total value of imports and exports. The imports and exports by private enterprises went up by 10.5%, accounting for 55.1% of the total value of imports and exports, 2.3 percentage points higher than that of the same period last year. The exports of mechanical and electrical products went up by 8.8%, accounting for 59.1% of the total value of exports.

Sixth, employment was generally stable and urban surveyed unemployment rate increased slightly.

In the first eight months, the urban surveyed unemployment rate averaged 5.2%, 0.1 percentage point lower than that of the same period last year. In August, the urban surveyed unemployment rate was 5.3%, 0.1 percentage point higher than that of the previous month. The surveyed unemployment rate of population with local household registration was 5.4% and that of population with non-local household registration was 4.9%, among which, the rate of the population with non-local agricultural household registration was 4.6%. The urban surveyed unemployment rate in 31 major cities was 5.4%. The employees of enterprises worked 48.7 hours per week on average.

Seventh, increase of consumer prices expanded and producer prices for industrial products declined.

In August, the consumer price index (CPI) went up by 0.6% year on year, 0.1 percentage point faster than that in July, or up by 0.4% month on month. Grouped by commodity categories, prices for food, tobacco and alcohol were up by 2.1% year on year; clothing up by 1.4%; housing maintaining the same level year on year; articles and services for daily use up by 0.2%; transportation and communication down by 2.7%; education, culture, and entertainment up by 1.3%; medical services and health care up by 1.3%; and other articles and services up by 3.4%. Among the prices for food, tobacco and alcohol, the price for grain went down by 0.1%, fresh fruits up by 4.1%, pork up by 16.1%, and fresh vegetables up by 21.8%. The core CPI excluding the prices of food and energy went up by 0.3% year on year. In the first eight months, the CPI went up by 0.2% year on year.

In August, the producer prices for industrial products went down by 1.8% year on year, or down by 0.7% month on month. The purchasing prices for industrial producers went down by 0.8% year on year, or down by 0.6% month on month. In the first eight months, the producer prices and the purchasing prices for industrial products dropped by 1.9% and 2.1% year on year, respectively.

Generally speaking, the national economy was generally stable in August with steady progress in pursuing high-quality development. However, we should be aware that adverse impacts arising from the changes in the external environment are increasing, effective demand remains insufficient at home, and the sustained economic recovery is still facing multiple difficulties and challenges. At the next stage, we must follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, adhere to the principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, and fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts. We must accelerate efforts to create a new pattern of development, take reform as the driving force in promoting steady growth, making structural adjustments and guarding against risks, strive to promote high-quality development, and speed up the implementation of the reform tasks and policy measures so as to consolidate the foundation for sustained economic recovery and growth.

That is all for my introduction for the national economic performance in August this year.

Xing Huina:

Please raise your hand if you have a question. Before asking, please state the name of your media organization.

CMG:

China's economy has performed steadily this year, maintaining a positive trend. How would you evaluate the economic indicators for August? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Thank you for your question. In August, domestic and international conditions became more complex and severe. High temperatures, heavy rain and floods continued to impact economic activities. Facing these challenges, various regions and departments thoroughly implemented decisions from the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. The effects of macroeconomic policies continued to emerge. The economy remained generally stable based on four key indicators we use to assess the macroeconomy — growth, employment, prices and balance of international payments. Meanwhile, transformation and upgrading proceeded steadily, high-quality development achieved new progress, and the economy continued its trend of steady improvement.

First, production remained generally stable, with continued upgrading trends. In agriculture, early rice production held steady this year. Local governments strengthened field management, and most agricultural areas saw favorable conditions. Autumn crops are currently growing normally. Hog farming efficiency improved, with increases in both inventory and slaughter numbers. The added value of industrial enterprises above designated size increased 4.5% year on year in August. Equipment manufacturing continued to play a stabilizing role, with industrial upgrading and the shift to new growth drivers becoming increasingly evident. In August, equipment manufacturing's added value rose 6.4% year on year, contributing 47.9% to the total added value of all industrial enterprises above designated size. The electronics industry maintained double-digit growth, while high-tech manufacturing increased 8.6%. The production of smart, green products such as virtual reality devices, smartwatches, and new energy vehicles has continued to grow rapidly. The service sector production index increased 4.6% year on year in August. Accommodation and catering saw faster growth than the previous month, boosted by summer tourism. Modern service industries performed well, with information transmission, software and IT services growing 12.1% and leasing and business services growing 9.4% in terms of production index.

Second, domestic demand continued to expand with ongoing structural optimization. In terms of consumption, total retail sales of consumer goods rose 2.1% year on year in August, with restaurant revenue growing 3.3%, 0.3 percentage point faster than the previous month. Green and digital consumption showed lively activity, while service consumption potential continued to grow. Online-offline retail integration expanded the scope of consumption and improved consumer experiences. According to the China Automobile Dealers Association, sales of new energy vehicles in August increased 43.2% year on year. From January to August, online sales of physical goods increased 8.1% year on year, significantly faster than the overall growth rate of total retail sales of consumer goods. Service retail sales increased 6.9%, 3.9 percentage points faster than retail sales of goods in the same period. In terms of investment, fixed asset investment rose 3.4% year on year from January to August, with high-tech industry investment growing 10.2%, maintaining double-digit growth for six consecutive months, providing strong support for nurturing and developing new growth drivers.

Third, employment remained stable overall, and consumer prices increased slightly. The national surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.3% in August, up 0.1 percentage point from July, mainly due to college graduates entering the job market. The employment situation for migrant workers was relatively good, with the surveyed unemployment rate of the population with non-local agricultural household registration dropping by 0.3 percentage point to 4.6% in August compared to the previous month. Consumer prices increased due to high temperatures and rainy weather. The consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.4% month on month in August, the second consecutive monthly increase. Year on year, the CPI rose 0.6%, an increase of 0.1 percentage point compared to the previous month, continuing a moderate upward trend.

Fourth, foreign trade showed growth, and foreign exchange reserves continued to grow. Despite the slowing global economic recovery and weakened manufacturing activity worldwide, China's total imports and exports in August rose 4.8% year on year, reaching a record high for the month. Exports grew 8.4%, up 1.9 percentage points compared to the previous month. The trade structure continued to improve, with the cumulative growth rate of machinery and electronics products exports accelerating by half a percentage point, accounting for nearly 60% of total exports. Products such as automobiles and integrated circuits continued to show strength, with their export values maintaining rapid growth. The Belt and Road Initiative continued to show results, with China's imports and exports to partner nations increasing 7% year on year from January to August, outpacing overall import-export growth. At the end of August, foreign exchange reserves increased $31.8 billion from July, remaining above $3.2 trillion for the year. The yuan showed a trend of steady appreciation.

Looking at the overall performance for the first eight months of the year, the scale of major indicators continued to expand steadily, with growth rates remaining largely stable. From January to August, retail sales of consumer goods and fixed asset investment hit 31.2 trillion yuan and 32.9 trillion yuan, respectively, highlighting the potential of China's super-large market. China's total value of imports and exports reached 28.6 trillion yuan, maintaining its global market share. The added value of industrial enterprises above designated size, the service production index, retail sales of consumer goods and fixed asset investment grew by 5.8%, 4.9%, 3.4%, and 3.4%, respectively, all remaining consistent with the January-July period. These figures indicate that China's macroeconomy remains stable overall, and the trend of steady economic operation continues.

In summary, China's economy remained generally stable in August, with continued progress in high-quality development. However, we must recognize that the international environment has become more complex and severe, with increasing instability and uncertainty. Domestic issues such as insufficient demand persist, the transition between old and new growth drivers involves some difficulties, and certain industries and enterprises still face operational challenges. In the next phase, we must continue to thoroughly implement the decisions of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and meetings of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau. We must strengthen macroeconomic regulation, deepen innovation-driven development, fully tap domestic demand potential, enhance market vitality, stabilize market expectations, and promote both qualitative and quantitative economic growth. Thank you.

Zhinews of Shenzhen Satellite TV:

How would you evaluate the highlights of August's industrial data? And what is the current overall situation of industrial production within China? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

In August, due to a higher comparison base from the same period last year, the year-on-year growth rate of the added value of industrial enterprises above designated size decreased compared to the previous month. Excluding seasonal factors, the added value of industrial enterprises above designated size saw a month-on-month increase of 0.32%, maintaining a growth trend. Cumulatively, in the January–August period, its growth was 5.8%, maintaining overall stability. Most industries, regions and products achieved growth, with significant trends toward the development of high-end, intelligent and green industries. The high-quality development of the industrial sector continued to advance. The sector is characterized by four features:

First, over 80% of regions, nearly 80% of industries and more than 50% of products achieved growth. In August, out of the 31 provincial-level regions nationwide, 25 saw growth in added value, with the proportion hitting 80.6%. Among the 41 major industries in the industrial sector, 32 industries saw year-on-year growth in added value, with the proportion close to 80%. Among the 619 industrial products surveyed, 339 products saw year-on-year growth in output, with the proportion reaching 54.8%.

Second, the equipment manufacturing industry continued to take a prominent role as an "anchor" of industrial growth. In August, the added value of equipment manufacturing enterprises above designated size increased by 6.4% year on year, maintaining fast growth and contributing 47.9% to the growth of the total added value of industrial enterprises above designated size, close to half. From January to August, the added value of the equipment manufacturing industry accounted for 33.5% of industrial enterprises above designated size; and the proportion continued to rise from the January-July period and has remained above 30% for 18 consecutive months. Profits for the equipment manufacturing industry maintained stable growth. In the first seven months, the equipment manufacturing industry's profits increased by 6.1% year on year, 2.5 percentage points higher than the total profits of industrial enterprises above designated size; and they accounted for 35.1% of the total profits of industrial enterprises above designated size, an increase of 0.8 percentage point compared to the same period last year.

Third, new drivers for manufacturing development continued to grow. With the continuous application of technological and innovative achievements as well as digital technology, process updates, digital empowerment and green and low-carbon initiatives will help to drive industrial upgrading and new drivers will continue to grow. In August, the added value of high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size increased by 8.6% year on year, with electronic and communication equipment manufacturing growing by 11.4% and maintaining double-digit growth for 10 consecutive months. The added value of intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing increased by 54% year on year. Navigation, surveying, mapping, meteorological and marine special instrument manufacturing grew by 65.1%, while electronic measuring instrument manufacturing increased by 12.6%. All these maintained a rather fast growth momentum. The new energy industry also saw solid growth. In August, the output of new energy vehicles and charging piles increased by 30.5% and 97% year on year, respectively, both registering quite a rapid growth. The output of polysilicon and solar ultra-clear glass — both green materials within the new energy industrial chain — increased by 20.3% and 49%, respectively.

Fourth, the export of industrial products continued to be a driving force. In August, the export delivery value of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 6.4% year on year, unchanged from the previous month and maintaining relatively fast growth. From January to August, its cumulative growth rate was 4.1%, and the rate accelerated month by month this year. Among the 39 major export industries, 32 industries saw export growth, with the proportion reaching 82.1%. The export delivery value of the computer, communication and electronic equipment manufacturing industry, which accounts for nearly 40% of the main export industries, grew by 3.4% year on year, 0.9 percentage point higher than the previous month. The export delivery value of automobile manufacturing grew by 15.9%, 2.9 percentage points higher than the previous month and maintaining double-digit growth for nine consecutive months. The export delivery values for general equipment, special equipment, metal products as well as railway, ship and aerospace industries all achieved double-digit growth.

In the next stage, the effects of macro policies, such as implementing major national strategies, building up security capacity in key areas as well as promoting large-scale equipment renewals and trade-ins of consumer goods, will take hold. As new fields and arenas, such as artificial intelligence, continues to expand, and the domestic large-scale market and rich scenario application technologies grow, all these will be conducive for boosting domestic demand and extending space for development. Overall, the industrial sector is expected to maintain a stable development trend.

That concludes my response.

Phoenix TV:

In August, the year-on-year CPI increase expanded, reaching its highest level in the past six months. What are the underlying factors behind this? What is your outlook for future trends? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Influenced by factors such as high temperatures and heavy rainfall, the national CPI showed a seasonal month-on-month increase in August, and its year-on-year growth was larger than that of the previous month.

First, looking at the month-on-month change, the CPI increased by 0.4%, a decrease of 0.1 percentage point compared to the previous month. Specifically, food prices increased by 3.4%, contributing approximately 0.6 percentage point to the month-on-month increase in the CPI. Non-food prices decreased by 0.3%, contributing approximately 0.24 percentage point to the month-on-month decrease in the CPI. In the food category, mainly influenced by high summer temperatures and localized heavy rainfalls, the prices of fresh vegetables, fresh mushrooms, fresh fruits and eggs increased, collectively contributing 0.49 percentage point to the month-on-month increase in the CPI. Pork prices increased by 7.3%, contributing 0.1 percentage point to the month-on-month increase in the CPI. In the non-food category, mainly influenced by fluctuations in international oil prices, domestic gasoline prices decreased by 3%. With the school season coming, due to a decline in demand for travel, airplane ticket prices and travel prices decreased by 5.1% and 0.7%, respectively.

Looking at the year-on-year change, the CPI increased by 0.6%, an increase of 0.1 percentage point compared to the previous month. Food prices, which saw a flat rate in the previous month, rose by 2.8%, contributing approximately 0.51 percentage point to the year-on-year increase in the CPI. Non-food prices increased by 0.2%, contributing approximately 0.13 percentage point to the year-on-year increase in the CPI. In the food category, the prices of fresh vegetables, fresh fruits and pork increased by 21.8%, 4.1% and 16.1%, respectively, while the prices of eggs, edible oils, beef, mutton and tubers decreased within a range of 4% to 14.5%. In the non-food category, service prices rose by 0.5%, a decline of 0.1 percentage point. Specifically, medical service prices increased by 1.9%, education service prices increased by 1.7% and family service prices increased by 1.6%. At the same time, airplane ticket prices decreased by 11.9% and hotel accommodation prices decreased by 3.6%. In the non-food category, the prices of industrial consumer goods decreased by 0.4%, among which gasoline prices decreased by 2.7%, the prices of fuel-powered compact cars decreased by 6.4%, and the prices of daily household necessities, indoor decorations and traditional Chinese medicines increased within a range of 1.1% to 6.9%. These are the main reasons for the month-on-month and year-on-year changes of the CPI in August.

Looking ahead, with cooler temperatures and the end of China's major flood season, reduced rainfall will provide favorable conditions for vegetable cultivation, transportation and storage. Moreover, considering increased consumer demand during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, overall vegetable prices might experience a modest decrease. Given the reduced hog production and the impending traditional peak season for consumption, pork prices are likely to increase further. Overall, food prices are expected to remain stable. Regarding industrial consumer goods, energy prices are facing increasing downward pressure due to international factors. Meanwhile, the supply of other industrial consumer goods is ample, therefore, their prices are expected to remain stable. Service prices are expected to experience a slight increase due to the impact of the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays. Given all the factors mentioned above, the CPI is expected to gradually increase in the coming period.

CNBC: 

The data for July and August indicated a slowdown in the growth of value-added industrial output and fixed-asset investment. What are the differences between August and July? And what factors might have contributed to this? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Thank you for your questions. Regarding the changes in industrial production and investment in July and August, I would say, industrial production in July and August was hindered by a combination of factors, including adverse weather conditions like heatwaves, torrential rain and floods. Meanwhile, some industries were also affected by weak market demand. Given all this, the year-on-year growth of value-added industrial output slowed in July and August. Both months experienced relatively fast month-on-month growth. Therefore, the cumulative growth remained stable. Notably, the transformation and upgrading of industries has been advancing, as mentioned previously, with the added value of high-tech manufacturing and equipment manufacturing experiencing robust growth. Investment activities were also affected by extreme weather conditions, with some regions reporting a decline in construction due to persistent high temperatures and extreme weather. Nevertheless, investment continued to expand in scale and improve in structure. Fixed asset investment grew by 3.4% year on year between January and August, and maintained positive growth in August from the previous month. Structural data has revealed several significant features of the current investment situation:

First, investment in the manufacturing sector has been a major driving force for overall investment growth. Investment in the manufacturing industry experienced a 9.1% year-on-year growth in the first eight months, outpacing overall investment by 5.7 percentage points. It contributed 2.2 percentage points to the growth of total investment, making up more than 60% of the total investment growth. Notably, investment in the sectors of equipment manufacturing, consumer goods manufacturing and raw materials manufacturing all saw robust growth, expanding by 10%, 14.9% and 9% year on year, respectively.

Second, investment in high-tech industries has been active. In recent years, China has made concerted efforts to cultivate new quality productive forces, and steadily foster new growth drivers and new strengths. It has stepped up efforts to support sci-tech innovation, witnessing a rapid growth in the investment in high-tech industries. From January to August, investment in high-tech industries expanded by 10.2% year on year, outpacing overall investment growth by 6.8 percentage points. Notably, investment in the electronic and telecommunication equipment manufacturing sector, aerospace and equipment manufacturing sector, as well as information service sector, and services for commercialization of technology breakthroughs surged by 10%, 34.4%, 9.9% and 15.9% year on year, respectively. These all significantly outpaced overall investment growth.

Third, large-scale projects have been a key driver of investment growth. From January to August, investment completed in projects with planned total expenditures of 100 million yuan and above grew by 7% year on year, contributing 3.8 percentage points to overall investment growth. As such, they have played their role as a "cornerstone" in maintaining the momentum of investment growth. 

Fourth, equipment upgrades have yielded significant results. Driven by the policies to promote large-scale equipment upgrades, investment in machinery and equipment has grown rapidly, significantly contributing to overall investment growth. From January to August, investments in purchasing new machines and equipment increased by 16.8% year on year, 13.4 percentage points higher than overall investment growth.

Despite a moderate decrease in the cumulative growth rate of investment, which is due to the impact of extreme weather, investment is currently increasing in terms of both volume and quality. Looking ahead, the issuance and utilization of ultra-long treasury bonds and special government bonds will accelerate, and the policies to promote a new round of large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-in of consumer goods will play a bigger role. Moreover, increased efforts will be made to advance major national strategies and build up security capacity in key areas. As a result, financial support and support for project implementation are expected to be improved, thereby maintaining steady growth of investment. Meanwhile, China still has great potential for progress in cultivating new quality productive forces, transforming and upgrading industries, transitioning toward green and low-carbon economy, and shoring up weaknesses in improving people's livelihoods. These areas offer significant investment opportunities for both the government and enterprises. Investment in such areas will play a greater role in stabilizing growth, adjusting structure, improving supply and benefiting the people. Thank you. 

National Business Daily:

Given the August employment data, how would you assess the performance of China's job market at present? What policy measures or suggestions do you have to further promote high-quality employment? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Since the beginning of the year, all regions and departments have intensified efforts to implement the employment-first strategy, strengthening the policy of giving priority to employment, and improving the mechanism to ensure employment. As a result, the overall job market has remained stable. From January to August, the average of surveyed urban unemployment rate in China stood at 5.2%, 0.1 percentage point lower than that last year. The surveyed urban jobless rate was 5.3% in August, rising by 0.1 percentage point from the previous month, primarily due to the impact of graduation season.

The surveyed unemployment rate for migrant workers decreased. In August, this rate was 4.9%, down 0.2 percentage point from the previous month. The surveyed unemployment rate for rural migrant workers was 4.6%, a decrease of 0.3 percentage point from July. This decline is primarily attributed to increased summer travel activities, which have boosted employment in related industries.

The urban surveyed unemployment rate in major cities saw a slight increase. In August, this rate in 31 major cities was 5.4%, up 0.1 percentage point from the previous month. The slight uptick in both the national urban surveyed unemployment rate and that of the 31 major cities is primarily due to the influx of recent college graduates entering the labor market during graduation season.

It's also important to recognize that, with a large labor force and ongoing economic restructuring, China faces both pressures on overall job creation and significant structural employment challenges. More efforts are needed to stabilize employment. In the next stage, we must continue to follow the plans outlined at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, developing sound mechanisms for promoting high-quality, full employment and refining the related public services system. We must also improve employment support for key groups, such as college graduates, rural migrant workers and veterans, to maintain the current stable employment situation. Thank you.

Cover News:

Since the start of this year, the State Council has released an action plan to initiate large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins. Relevant departments have also rolled out an array of supportive policies. What results have been achieved in implementing these policies? Have these results met your expectations? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Thank you for your question. The Central Economic Work Conference held at the end of last year proposed promoting large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins to pursue higher standards for technology, energy consumption and emissions. In March, the State Council released an action plan to make comprehensive arrangements in this regard. At the end of July, relevant departments issued measures to support these initiatives more. Many regions have also issued supportive policies. As the policy scope expands and intensifies, its effects continue to be felt.

First, regarding industrial production, equipment manufacturing and consumer goods industries grew rapidly, driven by policy incentives. In August, due to equipment upgrades and other factors, the added value increased across several sectors: ship and related equipment manufacturing rose by 23%, urban rail transit equipment by 17.1%, textile, garment and leather processing specialized equipment by 10.5%, and communication equipment by 10.3%. All these sectors achieved double-digit growth. Product-wise, food manufacturing machinery output rose by 66% year on year, textile specialized equipment 15.7%, and packaging specialized equipment 13.5%, all faster than the previous month. Stimulated by factors like trade-ins, consumer goods manufacturing added value grew 4.2% year on year, slightly faster than in July. Of the 13 consumer goods industries, 10 achieved year-on-year growth. In terms of specific products, those covered by relevant policies showed significant growth: household washing machine production increased by7%, smart TV production rose by6.7%, and household refrigerator production grew by 4.7%.

In terms of investment, driven by large-scale equipment upgrade policies, investment in equipment, tools and instruments grew rapidly, significantly boosting overall investment growth. From January to August, the contribution of investment in purchasing equipment, tools and instruments to overall investment growth reached 64.2%, up 3.5 percentage points from the January-July period.

In terms of consumption, driven by consumer goods trade-in policies, retail sales of household appliances and audio-visual equipment shifted from a 2.4% year-on-year decline in July to a 3.4% increase in August. High-efficiency appliances achieved double-digit growth in retail sales. New energy vehicle (NEV) sales grew even faster. According to the China Automobile Dealers Association, the August retail volume of NEVs increased by43.2% year on year, up 6.3 percentage points from July. The penetration rate of NEVs reached 53.9%, exceeding 50% for two consecutive months.

As policies for large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins are further implemented in detail, their scope and public awareness will expand, likely enhancing their effectiveness. These policies are expected to boost domestic demand and promote the development of new growth drivers. Thank you.

Hongxing News:

How do you view the current trends in the real estate industry, and how effective have the various local real estate support measures been? The next phase includes the traditional "Golden September and Silver October" period for the property market. What's your perspective on the trends for this upcoming phase? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Your question concerns the real estate sector. Some key indicators show a narrowing of declines due to a series of policies and measures. From January to August, real estate development investment fell by 10.2%, the same rate of decline as in the first seven months of the year. The sales area of commercial housing decreased by 18%, with the decline narrowing by 0.6 percentage point. The sales value of commercial housing dropped by 23.6%, with the decline narrowing by 0.7 percentage point. The area of new housing construction decreased by 22.5%, with the decline narrowing by 0.7 percentage point.

These changes indicate the real estate market is still undergoing adjustments. Looking ahead, China's ongoing urbanization and the accelerating development of a new real estate model suggest the market still has a significant potential. We must continue implementing city-specific policies and accelerate policy implementation to gradually promote steady, healthy real estate market development and better meet people's housing needs. Thank you.

ThePaper.cn:

How would you assess August's consumer spending data? Many local governments have issued ultra-long special treasury bonds this year to support consumer goods trade-in initiatives. What's your outlook for consumer spending in the coming period? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

Thank you for your questions. Since the third quarter, the central government has intensified efforts to support large-scale equipment upgrades and encourage consumer goods trade-ins. Local authorities have successively introduced implementation measures. As these policies gradually take effect, we are seeing a continued expansion in sales volume, maintaining an overall trajectory of recovery. From January to August, total retail sales of consumer goods increased by 3.4% year on year, essentially unchanged from the January to July period. The consumer market exhibited the following characteristics:

First, consumption of services maintained rapid growth, and the growth rate of catering revenue picked up. From January to August, retail sales of services grew by 6.9% year on year, 3.9 percentage points higher than the retail sales of goods during the same period. All categories of retail services achieved positive growth, with retail sales of transportation services, communication and information services, as well as financial and insurance services reaching or approaching double-digit growth. In particular, summer travel was active with robust demand for cultural tourism, reflecting the development potential of service consumption. Data from China State Railway Group shows that railways nationwide transported 887 million passengers in July and August, up 6.7% year on year, setting a new record for the summer travel period. Driven by increased travel and other factors, catering revenue rose 3.3% in August, a 0.3 percentage point increase from the previous month.

Second, new types of consumption remained relatively active. With the improvement of residents' living standards and changes in consumer attitudes, digital, green and health consumption have increasingly become new trends and hot spots, with some upgraded products showing positive growth. In August, the retail sales of communication equipment by enterprises above designated size increased by 14.8% year on year, 2.1 percentage points higher than in July. Sales of high energy-efficiency appliances and smart home appliances grew rapidly.

Third, online consumption grew rapidly, with some brick-and-mortar businesses and new models showing strong performance. New consumption models and business formats, such as livestream shopping, short video sales, and instant retail, have developed quickly, driving the continuous expansion of online consumption. From January to August, online retail sales of physical goods increased by 8.1% year on year, outpacing total retail sales of consumer goods by 4.7 percentage points, accounting for 25.6% of the total retail sales, the same as observed from January to July.

Fourth, policies aimed at stimulating consumption continued to show effectiveness. Currently, policies supporting consumer goods trade-ins are driving recovery of certain categories of bulk consumption. Data from the Ministry of Commerce shows that as of Aug. 31, more than 800,000 applications for automobile scrapping and renewal subsidies were received. In August, retail sales of household appliances and audio-visual equipment by units above the designated threshold ceased to decline and started to grow, indicating that policies continued to take effect.

At the same time, we should recognize that the sustained recovery of consumption faces certain constraints, and residents' confidence and willingness to consume still need strengthening. The central government has repeatedly emphasized the importance of boosting domestic demand, with a particular focus on promoting consumption. Relevant policies are being intensified, and more localities are actively implementing consumer goods trade-in programs. Through a series of policies aimed at expanding domestic demand and boosting consumption, we are seeing continuous improvements in the quality and level of goods and services. Consumption policies are being refined, and new types of consumption and service consumption are growing faster. These factors are conducive to rapidly unleashing consumer demand potential, further consolidating the foundation for consumption recovery. Thank you.

Yicai:

We have noted that the manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) registered 49.1% in August. How do you view this figure, and what is the expected trend in the coming period? Thank you.

Liu Aihua:

In August, the manufacturing PMI fell slightly due to seasonal factors, while the non-manufacturing industry, particularly the service sector business activity index, accelerated mildly. The overall level of economic prosperity remained stable. Affected by high temperatures, heavy rainfall and off-season production in some industries, the manufacturing PMI was 49.1%, down 0.3 percentage point from the previous month. Meanwhile, driven by summer travel consumption, the services business activity index stood at 50.2%, up 0.2 percentage point. The composite PMI output index posted 50.1%, continuing to stay within the expansion zone.

In the manufacturing sector, high-tech and equipment manufacturing returned to expansion, with PMI readings of 51.7% and 51.2%, respectively, up 2.3 and 1.7 percentage points, respectively, from the previous month. By industry, the production and new order indices for food, beverages and refined tea, railway, ship and aerospace equipment, and electrical machinery all exceeded 54%. Energy-intensive industries registered 46.4%, down 2.2 percentage points from the previous month, primarily causing the manufacturing PMI decline. Manufacturing enterprises' production expectations remained expansionary, with the business activity expectation index at 52% in August, indicating that most manufacturing enterprises were relatively optimistic about recent market developments. Structural changes in the manufacturing PMI show that the transformation and upgrading of the manufacturing sector are accelerating, continually injecting new momentum into economic development.

Summer consumption played a significant role in driving growth in the service sector. The business activity indices for railway transportation, air transportation, postal services, telecommunications, radio and television, satellite transmission services, and culture, sports and entertainment industries all remained above 55%, indicating a high level of prosperity. Regarding market expectations, the business activity expectation index for the service sector stood at 55.4%, maintaining a relatively high prosperity level. Among these, the business expectation indices for postal services, telecommunications, radio and television, satellite transmission services, and monetary and financial services all posted above 60%, reflecting a highly prosperous outlook. Overall, businesses remain optimistic about the development of these related industries.

Looking ahead, as various policies and measures continue to take effect and the "golden September and silver October" peak production season arrives, we anticipate a gradual recovery in both the overall PMI and the service sector's business activity index. Thank you.

Securities Times:

The Statistics Law will strengthen the statistics-based oversight, ratchet up legal liabilities for illegal acts, and strive to solve prominent problems such as statistical fraud. What are the implications?

Liu Aihua:

Thank you for your interest in the statistical work. On Sept. 13, the 11th session of the 14th NPC Standing Committee approved the Decision of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on Revising the Statistics Law of People's Republic of China, with the decision going into effect as of the date of promulgation. This marks the third revision of the Statistics Law since its promulgation in 1983, following revisions in 1996 and 2009. This latest revision represents another important milestone in advancing China’s statistical endeavors and legal framework.

In terms of this revision of the Statistics Law, we have followed the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implemented the guiding principles from the Party's 20th National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee, and thoroughly implemented guiding principles of General Secretary Xi Jinping's important speeches and instructions on statistical work as well as the decisions and plans of the Party Central Committee on the reform of statistics. We have maintained the institutional framework of the current Statistics Law and amended relevant systems focusing on strengthening the Party's leadership, giving full play to the role of statistics-based oversight, solving prominent problems such as statistical fraud, and improving the scientific and modern level of statistics. These mainly include the following four aspects:

First, the revision has adhered to the Party's leadership over statistical work. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has attached great importance to statistical work, taken into account the overall development of the Party and state, and made a series of major arrangements and requirements about statistical work. The revision of the Statistics Law this time has transformed major decisions and plans of the Party Central Committee into legal systems through proper legal procedures and has written "statistical work upholds the CPC leadership" into the Statistics Law, ensuring that statistical work always moves forward in the right direction under the Party's strong leadership.

Second, the revision has further strengthened statistics-based oversight. In order to demonstrate the emphasis of the Party Central Committee on strengthening statistics-based oversight, "strengthening statistics-based oversight" has been written in as the legislative purpose and the provisions on statistics-based oversight have been refined. The implementation of major national economic and social policies and measures by all regions and departments, as well as their performance of statutory statistical duties, have been included in the content of statistics-based oversight. The statutory connotation of statistics-based oversight and its functions has been further clarified, providing a legal basis for statistics-based oversight to play a more effective role within the Party and state oversight system.

Third, the revision has further strengthened measures to prevent and punish statistical fraud. First, it has added regulations and relevant legal liabilities, so that relevant persons in charge shall not explicitly state or imply that lower-level units and their personnel or the subjects of statistical surveys shall submit false statistical data. Second, the revision mandates that the system of accountability for preventing and controlling statistical fraud shall be established and improved. Local governments at all levels and all relevant departments have been required to include the prevention and punishment of statistical fraud and operations involving falsification in the scope of administration and performance of duties in accordance with the law and the assessment and management of the statistical work of leading officials shall be strengthened. Third, it stipulates that China shall implement a unified national economy measurement system and the NBS shall organize and implement the measurement of GPR in a unified manner. Fourth, the revision imposes legal liability on officials who neglect serious inaccuracies in statistical data, and includes catch-all provisions. These revisions have transformed the effective practices of the Party Central Committee's decisions and arrangements as well as practices into legal provisions, which can effectively strengthen leading officials' sense of responsibility and enable them to take proactive steps to prevent and control statistical fraud.

Fourth, the revision has improved the scientific and modern level of statistical work. To align with the requirements of the new development philosophy, it stipulates that in accordance with the new situation of economic and social development, scientific and rational statistical standards and the statistical indicator system shall be improved, and new forms of economy and new sectors shall be included in the statistical surveys. In order to give play to the driving role of information technology in the modernization of statistics, it stipulates that the state shall promote the in-depth integration of modern information technology and statistical work. In order to obtain more authentic and accurate source data, it stipulates that full use should be made of social big data, and the digitalization and standardization of statistical ledgers shall be advanced. These regulations have effectively enhanced the production capacity, data quality and service level of China's government statistics, providing a solid statistical guarantee for Chinese modernization.

To conclude, the amendments to the Statistics Law hold profound significance for refining statistical systems, strengthening statistics-based oversight, preventing and controlling statistical fraud, ensuring authenticity and credibility of statistical data, and better serving Chinese modernization. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

Economic Daily:

Based on the national economic performance over the past eight months this year, what are the predictions and prospects of the NBS for the future economic outlook? Thank you. 

Liu Aihua:

According to the economic performance over the past eight months, despite facing complex and volatile situations at home and abroad, China's economy has overall performed stably and high-quality development has continued to advance under the influence of factors such as the effective macro policies, accelerated development of new growth drivers, and the sustained growth of external demand. From January to August, the growth rates of industry, service industry, investment and consumption remained relatively stable, while the growth rate of exports has accelerated. The general principle of pursuing stable economic development has remained unchanged. Looking forward, these positive factors supporting steady and healthy economic development will continue to exist and new favorable conditions will also come into play. This year, the development trend of ensuring stability while making progress is expected to continue. Specifically, there are three supporting factors:

First, new growth drivers are rapidly emerging. China is at a crucial stage of transformation and upgrading. The leading and driving role of innovation has continued to be strengthened. The accelerated cultivation of new quality productive forces and strong potential and vitality of new forms of business and new models have gradually become new economic growth drivers. For instance, from January to August, the value added of high-tech manufacturing industry rose 8.9% year on year. The production of new energy vehicles and service robots grew by 31.3% and 25.4%, respectively. New forms and models of consumer spending such as instant retail have developed rapidly, driving the online retail sales of physical goods to maintain relatively fast growth. As emerging sectors continue to unlock their potential and foster new strengths, economic development prospects will be further extended and expanded.

Second, domestic demand is poised for sustained growth. Investment has been expanding steadily this year, with manufacturing investment growing significantly faster than the total investment. The investment in high-tech fields has demonstrated a sound momentum of growth. From January to August, investment in high-tech manufacturing and high-tech services industries increased by 9.6% and 11.7%, respectively. At the same time, driven by the policy for large-scale equipment renewal, investment in purchases of equipment and instruments contributed over 60% to the total investment growth, for the growth of investment, providing important support for investment growth. Since the beginning of the third quarter, the central government has provided stronger support for large-scale equipment renewal and has expedited the process for the issuance and use of special treasury bonds and local government special bonds. With the gradual allocation of these funds to specific projects and the formation of physical workload, as well as the weakening of the impact of high temperatures on project construction, the volume of investment will continue to expand. Consumption has continued to recover since the beginning of this year. Development- oriented and leisure-based consumption, such as services and upgraded products, have grown quickly. Holiday travel has played a significant role in driving consumption and cultural and tourism consumption has been active. Meanwhile, the effects of trading-in consumer goods have continued to manifest. Looking forward, with the arrival of the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, residents' consumption demand for travel is expected to be further stimulated, coupled with the further effectiveness of the trade-in policy of consumer goods, and the continuous implementation of policies to stabilize employment and promote income increases, consumption is poised to expand and upgrade.

Third, macro policies will continue to be strengthened. Since the beginning of this year, all regions and departments have been fully implementing the decisions and plans of the Party Central Committee and the State Council and taken effective measures to implement macro policies, providing strong support for promoting stable economic growth. The Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee has made systematic arrangements for the follow-up economic work and all regions and departments are currently working harder to advance and implement these. For example, many regions recently introduced policies for expanding domestic demand and promoting consumption. These policies are expected to further optimize the consumption environment, create new consumption scenarios, and unleash the full potential of policies, thereby fostering synergy for advancing economic development, and promoting development of the real economy. At the same time, a series of reform measures outlined at the third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee are gradually being implemented, which is conducive to boosting confidence, building consensus and stimulating impetus for development. 

In general, despite a complex and severe external environment and persistent challenges of inadequate domestic demand, China's economy has maintained overall stability. Factors of production underpinning high-quality development have continued to accumulate and increase, providing strong support for us to deal with all kinds of risks and challenges. Economic performance is expected to sustain the development trend of ensuring progress while maintaining stability. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

That concludes our press conference today. Thank you to Ms. Liu and all our media friends for your participation. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Yan Bin, Wang Qian, Zhang Lulu, Zhang Junmian, Yang Chuanli, Wang Wei, Gong Yingchun, Yuan Fang, Li Xiao, Ma Yujia, Zhang Tingting, Liu Sitong, Xu Kailin, Li Huiru, Zhang Rui, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Pei Jinjia, minister of the Ministry of Veteran Affairs (MVA)

Mr. Ma Feixiong, vice minister of the MVA

Mr. Wang Zhongcheng, director general of the Department of Support and Preferential Treatment of the MVA

Mr. Gao Haibin, deputy director general of the Department of Ideology and Rights Protection of the MVA

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 13, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon! Welcome to this press conference hosted by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today's event is part of the "Promoting High-Quality Development" series. We have invited Mr. Pei Jinjia, minister of the Ministry of Veteran Affairs (MVA), to brief you on relevant developments and to answer your questions. Also present today are Mr. Ma Feixiong, vice minister of the MVA; Mr. Wang Zhongcheng, director general of the Department of Support and Preferential Treatment of the MVA; and Mr. Gao Haibin, deputy director general of the Department of Ideology and Rights Protection of the MVA.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Pei for his briefing.

Pei Jinjia:

Thank you, Ms. Xing. Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, hello everyone! I am delighted to meet you all. On behalf of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for your continued attention and support for veterans' affairs.

General Secretary Xi Jinping highly values the work related to veterans' affairs, making a series of important discourses. On the eve of this year's national conference on work related to veterans' affairs, the general secretary issued important instructions, emphasizing that veterans are a precious asset to the Party and the nation, and an important force in advancing Chinese modernization. The work related to veterans' affairs is crucial to reform, development and stability, as well as the goals of building a strong military. We have earnestly studied and implemented General Secretary Xi Jinping's important discourses, have thoroughly implemented the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Our focus is on contributing to economic and social development and supporting national defense and military development. Our aim is to make military service a profession that is respected by society and ensure that veterans are honored by all. We continue to promote reform and innovation, driving high-quality development in veterans' affairs.

First, we have strengthened ideological and political leadership and guidance. Adhering to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, we have educated and led veterans to firmly support the establishment of Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole, as well as the establishment of the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We have also upheld Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole, and upheld the Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. We have carried out national commendations for model veterans and other exemplary figures, along with activities such as "Veterans Always Follow the Party," encouraging veterans to remain true to their revolutionary military nature, strengthen their convictions, exhibit patriotic dedication, and strive for more achievements. We have solemnly welcomed home and laid to rest the remains of the martyrs of the Chinese People's Volunteers from South Korea, and have strengthened the construction, management and protection of memorial facilities for martyrs both domestically and abroad. This has fostered admiration for heroism, promoted the spirit of the martyrs and cultivated a sense of patriotism and national pride among the public.

Second, we have deepened the reforms of institutions and mechanisms. We have advanced the standardization and normalization of the service guarantee system and launched pilot projects for the new profession of veterans' affairs specialists. Synergy mechanisms, such as departmental consultations and the "dual list" system of mutual support between the military and local governments, have been improved to continuously shape a work pattern of military-local coordination, inter-departmental cooperation, top-down linkage, and joint efforts. We have deepened policy and system research, pushed forward the formulation of a set of regulations on the settlement of veterans, and revised the regulations on pensions and preferential treatment for servicemen, as well as the regulations on commending martyrs, improving various laws and policies. These efforts have comprehensively strengthened and advanced the organizational management system, operational work system, and policy and institutional frameworks.

Third, we have vigorously served the goal of building a strong country with a strong military. We have aligned ourselves with major national strategies, introduced measures to encourage and support veterans, boosted the brand of volunteer services, and guided veterans to actively participate in tasks such as rural revitalization, ecological protection, border stabilization and development, and emergency rescue and disaster relief. Keeping pace with national defense and military reforms, we have actively supported the armed forces' combat readiness, optimized the emergency and war response mechanisms for promoting mutual support between the military and civilians, and strengthened frontline support capacities, including special care hospitals, halls of honor, and military supply stations. We have facilitated the smooth transition of veterans and military personnel with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities, continuously carried out activities to promote mutual support between the military and civilians, and helped alleviate concerns for military officers, personnel, and their families.

Fourth, we have focused on optimizing service guarantees. Emphasizing fairness and justice, we have adopted various methods such as exams, assessments, and direct settlements to properly place veterans. We have innovated and optimized education and training, broaden employment channels, and improved entrepreneurial support policies such as tax and financial incentives, striving to build a broad stage for veterans to use their talents and to assist in the transformation of military human resources. We have strengthened the construction of service centers (stations), focusing on the urgent needs of veterans and striving to clear the "last mile" in service delivery. We continue to raise the standards for pensions and subsidies, enrich preferential treatment scenarios, and promote new models of smart elderly care as well as the integration of medical and elderly care to provide better guarantees and higher-quality services. We have improved mechanisms to assist those in difficulty, launched the "Warmth for Veterans" initiative, and strived to do more meaningful work for veterans, like providing timely help when it is most needed, ensuring that the benefits of development are shared more equitably.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, our veterans have made significant contributions to national defense and military development. Even after retiring, they remain dedicated, carrying forward their mission as they take on new roles and pursuing their dreams. We will always use Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era to cultivate unity and bolster morale. We will also fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC Central Committee's third plenary session, further deepening reforms comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization. We will take on new responsibilities and demonstrate greater initiative in supporting a strong nation and military, enhancing service guarantees, and strengthening education and management. We aim to lead our veterans to actively engage in modernization efforts, creating new prospects for the high-quality development of veterans' affairs.

As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, on behalf of the MVA, I sincerely wish all veterans and their families happiness, peace, good health, and success in their endeavors. I also wish our media friends a joyful Mid-Autumn Festival. Thank you all.

Xing Huina:

You may now raise your hands to ask questions. Please state your news organization before asking.

People's Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has outlined plans for further deepening reform comprehensively. How will the MVA implement the guiding principles of this meeting and focus on deepening reform? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

Thank you for your important question. During this period, we have been carefully considering how to implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session. The theme of the session is to further deepen reform comprehensively and promote Chinese modernization. The MVA was born from reform, and veterans' affairs have progressed as a result of reform. In further deepening reform, the veterans affairs system must deepen its understanding, strengthen its implementation, and enhance its execution. We will make comprehensive and systematic plans to deepen reform in accordance with the goals set by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, adhering to problem-oriented and goal-oriented approaches. This involves three main aspects:

First, we will deepen reforms by addressing major issues of concern to the CPC Central Committee. Veterans are crucial in advancing Chinese modernization. We'll enhance policies and create platforms to encourage veterans' active participation in economic development, rural revitalization, border stability and growth, and volunteer services, fostering their engagement in socio-economic progress. We'll also focus on the military strengthening efforts prioritized by the CPC Central Committee, supporting the military's combat readiness. In particular, we will further improve veteran resettlement measures and address practical issues such as the placement of military families and their children's education. We'll bolster the development of military supply stations, veteran care hospitals, and honor homes to further support the military's combat readiness.

Second, we will deepen reforms by focusing on deep-seated issues that constrain development. We acknowledge existing challenges and will focus on strengthening and reforming key areas to promote problem-solving. First, we'll improve work implementation mechanisms by bolstering service centers (stations), easing grassroots burdens, promoting certificate reduction and service optimization, and ensuring that regulations and policies are effectively implemented to overcome the "last mile" of service support. Second, we'll improve the handling of petitions by refining channels for veterans to express concerns, coordinate interests, and protect rights. We'll implement quality checks for petition responses and address common issues altogether through effectively solving one similar case. It is necessary to improve the working mechanism of mutual support between civilian sectors and the military, deepen the publicity of their mutual support, improve the system of mutual assistance between the military and local communities, and foster an atmosphere of mutual appreciation between the military and civilians.

Third, we need to focus on deepening reforms to address the pressing issues faced by veterans. They encounter numerous challenges, with employment being their primary concern, as it is a fundamental aspect of well-being. Veterans have made significant contributions and sacrifices for national defense and military development. After leaving service, veterans face a crucial life transition in securing employment. We will further explore ways to enhance veterans' skills and capabilities, improve job information platforms, expand employment opportunities, and refine employment policies to promote high-quality, sufficient employment for veterans. The second major concern is the support mechanism. Some veterans face significant challenges like serious illnesses or family crises, encountering substantial difficulties that require urgent assistance. We will enhance the financial support system and further encourage societal participation in building a support network to effectively address veterans' urgent, difficult, and pressing issues, offering timely aid. The third aspect is to foster a culture of respect, improve the effectiveness of preferential treatment certificates, and deepen the services of "priority assistance, treatment, and benefits" for veterans to further increase their sense of happiness, fulfillment and honor.

We will develop annual reform plans and ensure that they are effectively implemented. At the same time, we'll encourage local-level reforms, innovations, and careful exploration to generate valuable experiences. We will promptly synthesize these insights and promote them nationwide, driving high-quality development in veterans' affairs through reform and innovation.

That's all from me. Thank you.

China Veterans:

Consolidating and developing unity between the military and the government, as well as between the military and civilians, is a strategic arrangement made by the 20th CPC National Congress. What measures has the MVA taken to leverage the unique advantages of civilian-military mutual support in helping build a strong military? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

I will invite Mr. Wang to answer this question.

Wang Zhongcheng:

Thank you to our journalist friend. Unity between the military, government, and civilians is key to success. The MVA places great importance on leveraging the unique advantages of civilian-military mutual support to strengthen the military and serve combat preparedness efforts.

We strengthen public awareness of "double support," which means local governments and civilians should support the army and give preferential treatment to the families of service members, while soldiers should support the government and care for the people. We organize the army and public to earnestly study and implement General Secretary Xi Jinping's important discourses on the double support work, strengthen political guidance, and foster a stronger sense of mission. Public awareness campaigns and national defense education are thoroughly implemented to cultivate love for family and country among troops and civilians. We  vigorously cultivate and promote exemplary models of the double support, enrich related culture, promote related themes, and tell stories of the new era to create a strong social atmosphere of harmony between the people and the military.

We make every effort to address the worries of officers and soldiers. Together with relevant military-civilian departments, we have improved regulations, policies and institutional mechanisms for protecting the legal rights and interests of service personnel and their families. Addressing the concerns of officers and soldiers has quickly become a key criterion in building model cities of the double support. We have diligently implemented the "double list" system for providing lists of practical assistance, organized and carried out special campaigns for protecting the legal rights and interests of service personnel and their families, enriched and expanded social support for the military, and taken multiple measures to solve the pressing difficulties and problems that concern officers and soldiers most.

We focus on serving the armed forces and supporting combat readiness. We have improved the response mechanism for the double support work, and supported military modernization, training and combat readiness. We have advanced campaigns that support the military and the front line. We have clearly defined topics for front line support, developed plans, strengthened capability building, and promoted relevant preparations.

Looking ahead, we will earnestly implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will improve the mechanisms for the double support work, make thorough preparations to support the military and the front lines, and better assist in strengthening the armed forces and serving their combat readiness efforts.

N Videos at Southern Metropolis Daily:

The management and protection of memorial facilities for martyrs has always attracted much attention. Could you please provide some specific information in this regard? Additionally, what arrangements have been made for the search, identification, and protection of martyrs' remains, as well as the search for their relatives? What progress has been made so far? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

Let's invite Mr. Ma to answer your questions.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you for your questions. Your concerns reflect the common sentiment of the public. We feel a great sense of responsibility in this regard.

Memorial facilities for martyrs are important repositories of revolutionary traditions for the Party and the country. Their proper protection, management and utilization are crucial for inheriting the revolutionary spirit and ensuring the eternal stability of our socialist country. The MVA has always worked diligently to protect these revolutionary sites and strived to improve their management and protection.

First, we have continued to promote construction and improvement. For martyr memorial facilities at or above the municipal level, we have focused on implementing quality upgrades and renovations. For martyr memorial facilities at or below the county level, we have conducted concentrated repair and protection efforts. For scattered martyrs' memorial facilities, we have focused on relocation, management and protection. So far, we have repaired more than 250,000 martyr tombs and other memorial facilities and relocated more than 77,000 scattered martyr tombs to martyr cemeteries, improving the overall standard of martyr memorial facilities.

Second, we have strengthened protection and management. We have implemented graded protection, consolidated work responsibilities, strictly regulated management, and promoted digital development. Currently, about 150,000 martyr memorial facilities and more than 730,000 martyr tombs across the country have been recorded in the information system. Together with relevant military-civilian departments, we established a joint coordination mechanism for the protection of heroes and martyrs and carried out special actions for management and protection.

Third, we have fully leveraged the role of education. We have organized memorial ceremonies, collected artifacts, collated historical materials, held boutique exhibitions, and cultivated teams of interpreters to promote education on the revolutionary spirit. We vividly spread the "red" culture and guide the public, especially young people, to cultivate their love for the Party, the country, and socialism. We strive to transform reverence for martyrs into practical actions of patriotic dedication and professional commitment, using the heroic spirit to inspire and unite, ensuring the revolutionary spirit passes from generation to generation.

In addition, we also promoted the completion of renovation and protection projects for 18 martyr memorial facilities in 12 countries, including the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Laos, to further carry forward traditional friendships, serve the overall diplomatic situation of the Party and the country, and demonstrate the image of a responsible major country.

The search for and excavation of martyrs' remains, along with their identification, protection, and effort to find martyrs' relatives, honors a small number of heroes but educates hundreds of millions in subsequent generations. This work responds to the public's emotions and embodies national responsibility. Although this work is very difficult to carry out, we must resolutely pursue it no matter how challenging, and we must do our best. Based on this understanding, we have established the Center of Martyr Memorial Facility Protection and the National Martyrs' Remains DNA Identification Lab, set up a national martyr remains search team, issued relevant policy documents to carry out this work, organized the collection and protection of Red Army martyrs' remains from the Xiangjiang Campaign, and launched a public service platform for finding martyrs' relatives. We have so far successfully found the families of more than 6,000 martyrs.

Going forward, we will further standardize this work by revising regulations on honoring martyrs, strengthening the application of information technology, and carrying out relevant work on a regular basis. We will focus on sharing stories about the search for relatives, comforting martyrs' families, promoting the spirit of heroes and martyrs, and enhancing the country's image. Our aim is to further create a positive atmosphere throughout society that honors heroes and cares for martyrs' families. Thank you!

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improving the system of employment support for ex-service members and the system for lifelong vocational skills training. What progress has been made in promoting ex-service members employment in recent years? What new measures will be introduced to further enhance their competitiveness and help them achieve high-quality employment? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

Thank you for your question. Ex-service members' employment is a fundamental issue of people's wellbeing, and is also a matter of great concern to ex-service members. We have always regarded the issue of ex-service members' employment as a priority.

First, we focus on elevating their educational qualifications and vocational skills, which means improving their employment capacity and competence. Last year, we supported 195,000 ex-service members who sought employment on their own to return to school, going on to higher education or pursuing postgraduate studies. Of these ex-service members, 131,000 benefited from tuition reduction policies. At the same time, based on market demand and personal preferences, we organized vocational skills training. Last year, 111,000 ex-service members participated in various vocational training programs.

Second, we have established employment information platforms. After improving their capacities, it is crucial for ex-service members to access employment information. We have primarily focused on two areas: First, supporting local veterans affairs departments in building employment information systems to publish job information in a timely manner. Second, supporting different localities in holding job fairs. Since last year, 11,000 job fairs have been held nationwide and 390,000 veterans have reached employment agreements.

Third, we have expanded employment channels. Veterans gain valuable experience during their time in the military, and many have high educational qualifications. Last year, over 70% of new recruits were college graduates. After military service, they develop many outstanding qualities. How do we broaden their employment channels? On one hand, veterans are specifically recruited for positions such as firefighters and civilian personnel in the military. In addition, special training programs have been developed to help veterans qualify for work in village Party committees and village committees, or become village Party secretaries or teachers. On the other hand, we have signed employment cooperation agreements with more than 20,000 companies across the country, and added 264,000 new job opportunities for veterans this year, significantly expanding their employment channels.

Fourth, we have enhanced employment policies. In recent years, we have introduced a series of policies to support veterans' employment, covering areas such as educational advancement, vocational skills training and entrepreneurship. For example, companies that hire veterans seeking employment on their own can enjoy tax incentives, and veterans seeking employment on their own can also receive certain tax breaks for their businesses. Through these efforts, we have gradually formed a policy system to support veterans' employment.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made overall arrangements for implementing an employment-first policy and improving the system of employment support for key groups, including ex-service members. Going forward, we will fully implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, focusing on several key areas:

First, we will continue to improve veterans' capacity and competence. We will support their pursuit of higher education and implement preferential policies during their studies. At the same time, we will further strengthen vocational skills training, particularly by making it more targeted and effective. Based on industrial development needs and personal preferences, we will expand training into new fields, such as drone operation, ensuring that the courses are designed to meet their needs and improve their competitiveness in the job market.

Second, we will further strengthen the development of employment information platforms. We will establish a national veterans employment information platform, connecting it with local governments and relevant departments like the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security as well as expanding the amount of available job information. This will allow veterans to access employment information on a larger platform and connect with more employment opportunities. Additionally, we will continue to enhance offline recruitment services with face-to-face recruitment events offering veterans and employers a chance for mutual selection, which remains one of the most important channels for veterans' employment, and we will increase our efforts in this area.

Third, we will continue to expand employment channels. We will build on the experiences gained from programs like "Veteran Teachers," "Veteran Village Party Secretaries" and the targeted recruitment of firefighters. At the same time, we will further explore new industries and sectors for employment cooperation, particularly by signing agreements with large employers to create more job opportunities targeting veterans, further broadening their employment channels.

Fourth, we will further improve employment policies. As mentioned earlier, we have policies related to education, vocational skills training and preferential taxation. These policies will be further refined.

Here, I also want to call on more employers to consider hiring veterans. As I mentioned earlier, the proportion of veterans with college degrees has surpassed 70% and their time in the military has instilled many excellent qualities in them, such as a strong sense of discipline, teamwork and perseverance. We believe that veterans can play exemplary roles in all kinds of positions.

At the same time, I also hope that veterans can first address their employment needs and then gradually choose their careers based on their aspirations. As long as they maintain the essence of a soldier and carry forward the excellent qualities of military personnel, I am confident that they can excel and contribute in any field or industry. I also believe they can play a significant role in China's modernization efforts. Thank you.

Jinan Times App:

This year, the general offices of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council jointly released a set of guidelines on improving the country's voluntary service system, which emphasized the vigorous development of veteran volunteers. Could you please elaborate on the measures being taken to improve the volunteer service capabilities of veterans? What measures are in place to ensure their concerns are addressed? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

I would like to invite Mr. Gao to answer this question.

Gao Haibin:

Thank you for your question. Volunteer service is a crucial marker of social progress and civilization. Over the years, we have proactively developed the team of veteran volunteers, encouraging them to promote social progress through tangible actions. Our veterans are politically aware, disciplined and of high caliber. While excelling in their primary duties, they actively give back to society and engage in volunteer services. Millions of veteran volunteers are active in various fields such as revolutionary history education, grassroots governance, emergency rescue and environmental protection. Facing natural disasters such as earthquakes, mudslides and heavy rainfall, they bravely assume responsibilities without fear of difficulties. Recently, when the powerful Typhoon Yagi struck, veteran volunteers in Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan remained on the front lines, safeguarding the lives and property of the people and helping to rebuild their homes, further enhancing the "Chinese Veteran Volunteer Services" brand.

Going forward, we will adhere to the directives of the Party Central Committee and focus on the following key areas:

First, we will concentrate on mobilization, leveraging the centers and stations for veterans at all levels to build robust volunteer service teams. We will lead the way to incorporate more veterans into these efforts, continuously expanding the volunteer service force. Second, we will focus on capacity building, conducting regular knowledge training and practical exercises in different levels and categories, organizing exchanges and discussions, showcasing projects, and strengthening the cultivation of professional backbone teams to acquire knowledge and skills, thereby enhancing levels of service. Third, we will focus on spiritual cultivation, guiding veterans to integrate the values of "the people's army" who are willing to sacrifice and contribute with the spirit of volunteerism, shaping and passing on the spirit of Chinese veteran volunteer services that embodies the military spirit, social contribution, courage, solidarity and honor. Fourth, we will focus on support and security, exploring the establishment of a management and security mechanism for veteran volunteer services, guiding social funds to participate and offer support, encouraging multiple channels to provide necessary insurance, subsidies, equipment and other material guarantees for volunteers. We will gradually establish an incentive mechanism primarily based on spiritual rewards, selecting typical models of Lei Feng-style volunteer services, and making volunteer services an important reference for related commendations and awards, continuously enhancing the sense of honor and pride among volunteers.

Veterans protect the country in uniform and contribute to their hometowns after leaving the military. Here, we earnestly request the support of all sectors of society to join us in promoting the vigorous development of veteran volunteer services, allowing the public to truly feel the presence of the remarkable veterans around them. Thank you.

The Poster News:

The preferential treatment card is a symbol of honor for veterans. Could you please elaborate on the current benefits that can be enjoyed with the card? What future considerations are there for enhancing the honor and sense of achievement for veterans through preferential treatment? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

I would like to invite Mr. Wang to answer this question.

Wang Zhongcheng:

Thank you for your question. The preferential treatment card is a symbol of honor for veterans and other recipients of preferential care, serving as a certificate for enjoying benefits, and it has garnered significant attention. Departments at all levels have attached great importance to the work of the preferential treatment card, focusing on enhancing efficiency and convenience, and have done a lot of work in this regard. Many enthusiastic enterprises and social organizations that support and care for veterans have actively responded to government calls, doing their best to provide benefits to cardholders.

Currently, the nationwide unified benefits cover a variety of aspects such as finance, telecommunications, express delivery, fuel, and air travel, and will continue to be expanded and standardized in the future. Local governments, based on their actual conditions, are actively enriching the scope of benefits and usage scenarios, widely mobilizing social forces to participate, and gradually extending benefits to areas such as culture and tourism, accommodation, shopping and health care. Various units, enterprises and social organizations that are enthusiastic about supporting and caring for veterans now exceed 100,000, and the atmosphere of respect and esteem is increasing. Of course, due to the uneven economic and social development across regions, there are differences in the scope and intensity of benefits. We hope people can understand these disparities.

Going forward, we will earnestly study and implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC National Congress and perform our duties. We will place equal emphasis on mental and physical benefits, actively address the concerns of those involved, further improve preferential treatment policies and institutional systems, and effectively safeguard legitimate rights and interests. Based on local conditions, we will make every effort according to our abilities, gradually enrich preferential treatments and application scenarios to make preferential treatment cards more useful, in order to increase veterans' senses of honor and gain. We will adhere to a holistic view and problem-oriented approach, and accelerate a supervision, governance and effective operation mechanism on preferential treatment work, ensuring high-quality and steady advancement of relevant work. Key tasks to be completed by the year's end include signing cooperation agreements on preferential treatment for military personnel with over 110 enterprises to expand the range of national unified preferential treatment programs; and introducing electronic preferential treatment cards to promote digital and information technology development. We believe that through the concerted efforts of all levels of government, departments, veterans and others, the preferential treatment work will be improved, and preferential treatment cards will meet more practical needs. Thank you.

CCTV:

Veteran resettlement is a key matter of concern for all military personnel when retiring. Could you elaborate on the measures taken in aligning military and civilian reforms, and streamlining the transfer and resettlement of veterans? And what further measures will the MVA take in the future? Thank you. 

Pei Jinjia:

I would like to invite Mr. Ma to answer this question. 

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you for your question. This issue is of the utmost concern to both serving and former military personnel and their families. It is also a crucial task of the veteran affairs system that requires substantial efforts.

The transfer and resettlement of veterans is a crucial link between the military and local governments, and relates to overall reform, development and stability, the construction of a national defense army, and veterans' rights and interests. It is incumbent on local governments and relevant departments at all levels to receive and settle veterans, serve and provide security for them, conduct education and training for them, unleash their potential, and safeguard their rights and interests. Since the 20th CPC National Congress, we have implemented General Secretary Xi Jinping's important instructions on veteran affairs, focused on new trends of aligning policies in military-civilian reforms, promoted the introduction of regulations on veterans' settlement, and formulated a series of documents on settlement policies, so as to standardize the work. In response to the increased frequency of military retirements and changes in the scale and structure of veteran populations, we have established mechanisms for phased transfer and categorized resettlement. To better facilitate the transition from military talent into civilian talent, we have continuously improved the open, fair and transparent settlement approach, and innovated direct settlement to match veterans with suitable jobs. To respond to veterans' hopes for a better life, we have worked to tap into settlement potential, expand settlement channels, improve their treatment and security, and boost service measures, striving to increase veterans' sense of gain.

Going forward, we will resolutely implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, focus on needs for deepening reforms and pursuing development, meet veterans' expectations, improve mechanisms and systems, and take concrete measures. We will concentrate on three aspects.

First, we will continue to optimize settlement policies. With the implementation of the regulations for the settlement of veterans as the driving force, we will further specify measures such as standardizing transfer procedures, optimizing settlement destinations, improving employment quality, and enhancing settlement guarantees. We will enhance legal framework for settlement so that veterans enjoy more policy benefits more quickly and comprehensively.

Second, we will continue to improve the incentive mechanism. We will vitalize veterans and resettlement resources, put more emphasis on personnel working in remote and challenging areas and on special posts, as well as role models and those who make contributions. We will improve various methods such as exams and evaluations, point-based job selection, two-way selection, and express resettlement channels. Through these measures and mechanisms, we will strive to enhance their overall capabilities and ensure that our most beloved people also become our most useful people. Veterans are always eager to make contributions, and we should have confidence in them.

Third, we will continue to improve the efficiency and quality of services. We will enhance services through the entire transition process, from military retirement to civilian employment. We will improve policy communication and training, and help veterans navigate identity and career transitions. We will improve settlement work processes, and optimize one-stop services, utilize information technology, and save veterans' time and unnecessary trips. At the same time, we will improve the follow-up system for settlement to ensure that benefits are fully delivered and veterans are more satisfied. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, we will take two final questions.

National Business Daily:

We understand that a system of veterans service centers and stations covering six levels from the state to the villages and communities has been established nationwide. What measures have been taken to enhance the effectiveness of these service centers and stations? What new plans and initiatives are in place for the service support system moving forward? Additionally, how do you ensure that services reach every veteran, especially those in remote areas and veterans facing difficulties? Thank you.

Gao Haibin:

Thank you for your questions. Service centers and stations for veterans at all levels are bridges to directly connect with veterans, platforms for providing specific services, and crucial fronts for implementing policies at the community level. In recent years, we've focused on enhancing their role by strengthening and optimizing the service and support system. We have improved policies and systems by issuing guiding documents, incorporating service center and station construction into the Veterans Support Law, guiding local governments to refine supporting measures, and promoting standardized operations. We've consolidated the foundation at the community level by adopting the Fengqiao model for promoting community-level governance in the new era, shifting the work priority to the community level, providing proactive services, strengthening community-level platforms, and publishing service lists. We have improved service capacity, achieving "four respects, five cares, and six must-visits" for new recruits, retirees returning home, and daily care. We have worked faster to advance career development for veterans' affairs personnel, strengthening regular training, facilitating exchanges and learning, and continuously improving staff capabilities in policy understanding, public engagement, and dispute resolution. Moving forward, we'll further identify priorities for deepening reform and take practical measures to better serve and support our vast veteran community.

First, we will consolidate the achievements of comprehensive service center coverage. In combination with institutional reform, we'll guide local governments to optimize service station construction and service window settings, coordinate resources from all parties, explore new service models, and encourage nongovernmental actors to participate in the supply of veteran services.

Second, we will extend the reach of service and support. Recognizing that many veterans live and work across different regions, we will explore the establishment of a coordination mechanism for cross-regional services and management. This will help us dynamically track where veterans are, what they're doing, and what they need, allowing timely follow-up on services and support. We'll encourage and support universities, enterprises, and business districts with the resources to voluntarily set up service stations, expanding our service scope and strengthening the service network.

Third, we'll implement "Internet Plus" services. We will promote the application of information technology, optimize service processes, vigorously advance one-stop services, promote a "single-visit" model for in-person requirements, and support mobile app-based services. This will allow veterans to access services with just a few taps on their smartphones, providing them with higher-quality, more convenient services.

Fourth, we will enhance service quality and efficiency. We'll focus on  pressing difficulties and problems that concern veterans most, maintaining regular contact, coordinating with civil affairs, human resources and social security departments to implement social assistance and employment support policies, and integrating resources to provide tangible, accessible services for veterans in remote areas through home visits, paired assistance, volunteer services and remote online consultations. In this way, we'll ensure veterans feel that services are readily available. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

China News Service:

Inheriting revolutionary traditions and carrying forward the spirit of heroes and martyrs is of great significance in strengthening our original aspiration and mission, reinforcing patriotism, and fostering a Chinese ethos. What work has the MVA done in this regard in recent years? Thank you.

Pei Jinjia:

Thank you. This is an excellent question. General Secretary Xi Jinping has stated that a promising nation cannot go without heroes or pioneers. In recent years, the MVA has focused on the Party's and country's central work, promoting the deeds and spirit of heroes and martyrs. We've actively guided the public to honor martyrs' legacies, inherit the revolutionary traditions and gather momentum for advancing in the new era. We've mainly focused on the following tasks:

First, we have deeply honored our fallen heroes and martyrs. We've organized a series of activities focusing on celebrating the centenary of the CPC, the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) entering the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to fight in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea, honoring our martyrs. At the same time, we have solemnly welcomed back the remains of CPV martyrs buried in South Korea, with a total of 369 remains returned over six consecutive years. We have also set up a national search team for the remains of martyrs and a national laboratory for DNA identification of martyrs' remains. Meanwhile, we have increased financial input for many consecutive years and raised the subsidies and benefits for the families of martyrs, which fully reflects the Party's and state's memory of and high respect for the martyrs. We have actively guided the people to be keenly aware of the hard-earned establishment of the CPC's political power, the People's Republic of China, and our current happy lives.

Second, we have organized initiatives to learn from heroes and martyrs. We have carried out activities such as "Centennial Heroes and Martyrs" and "Veterans Always Follow the Party: Education Events by Veterans." We've also launched distinctive and influential revolutionary literary and artworks. At the same time, we have guided all localities and units to organize themed party day and youth league day activities, as well as recitation activities themed "Inheriting Revolutionary Traditions." We have advocated the social value of paying tribute to heroes and martyrs and learning from them. We aim to guide people in emulating heroes' and martyrs' firm ideals and beliefs, selfless dedication, and strong sense of responsibility.

Third, we have carried forward revolutionary traditions. We have conducted publicity events such as "Paying Respect to Heroes and Martyrs at Qingming Festival" and activities in September for several consecutive years. Focusing on strengthening the education of young people, we have jointly issued opinions on making good use of revolutionary resources to enhance patriotic education. At the same time, we have organized ideological and political theory courses related to revolutionary heritage on campuses and carried out activities such as "red scarf guides" and "junior military academies." Through these efforts, we have guided people to never forget the sacrifice and dedication of the martyrs, draw strength from them, and take their job requirements as a starting point to work hard, maintain a strong will, and forge ahead in the great journey of advancing Chinese modernization. We have encouraged young people to establish lofty ideals, carry forward our revolutionary heritage, and write a vivid chapter of youth.

The Chinese nation is a nation of heroes, and the new era is an era that makes heroes. We will take the revision of the Regulations on Honoring Martyrs as an opportunity to further strengthen the study and publicity of heroes' and martyrs' deeds, improve the system and mechanism for honoring them, continue to carry out activities to pay tribute to heroes and martyrs and care for martyrs' families, and use their deeds and spirits to educate and guide people to strengthen their original aspiration and mission. This is an effort to create a social atmosphere in which people look up to heroes, learn from them, and strive to become pioneers. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Today's briefing is hereby concluded. Thank you to all the speakers and friends from the media. See you next time.

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Liu Qiang, Yan Xiaoqing, Zhou Jing, Yang Xi, Mi Xingang, Zhang Junmian, Liao Jiaxin, Wang Qian, Liu Jianing, Li Huiru, Xu Kailin, Huang Shan, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, David Ball, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers: 

Mr. Li Li, commissioner of the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA)

Mr. Zhao Junning, deputy commissioner of the NMPA

Mr. Huang Guo, deputy commissioner of the NMPA

Mr. Lei Ping, deputy commissioner of the NMPA

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 13, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Li Li, commissioner of the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), to provide a briefing and take your questions. Also present at today's press conference are the NMPA's deputy commissioners Mr. Zhao Junning, Mr. Huang Guo and Mr. Lei Ping.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Li for his briefing.

Li Li:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning! First, I'd like to extend my heartfelt thanks for your continued attention and support for the work in drug regulation.

Medicines are special commodities that cure diseases and save lives. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of drugs is critical to the health and well-being of the public as well as to economic and social development. General Secretary Xi Jinping has placed great emphasis on this, repeatedly underscoring the need to implement the highest standards, the strictest oversight, the most severe penalties and the most serious accountability. Following these four stringent principles, drug regulatory authorities have worked hard to balance safety with development, efficiency with fairness, and regulation with service. This approach has effectively ensured overall drug safety while driving high-quality development in the pharmaceutical industry. Now, I'd like to give a brief overview of the reforms and progress with drug regulation.

First, we have maintained strict oversight to ensure continuous compliance in drug production and management. Strong regulation fosters a strong industry. We have reinforced dynamic, life-cycle supervision of drugs, centering on three key areas: risk prevention, case investigation and capacity building. Through comprehensive efforts to safeguard and enhance drug safety, we have reinforced the foundation for drug safety in all respects. We have fully supported the national centralized procurement of drugs and medical devices, and ensured 100% coverage in both the inspection of selected manufacturers and the random testing of selected products, guaranteeing that price reductions do not lead to a drop in quality. The evaluation of consistency in quality and efficacy of generic drugs has also made steady progress, with these products now accounting for two-thirds of commonly used chemical drugs in clinical practice. From January to August of this year, 20,696 batches of drugs were inspected nationwide with a compliance rate of 99.43%, reflecting an overall stability in drug safety.

Second, we have deepened reform to support the development and market entry of innovative drugs and medical devices. High-quality development is the foundation for high-level safety. Ensuring public access to safe medicines and improving drug quality rely on the high-quality development of the pharmaceutical industry. To expedite the market entry of innovative drugs and medical devices, we have deepened reform of the review and approval process. This reform is characterized by early involvement, tailored policies for individual companies and a collaborative approach between research and review. Since the establishment of the NMPA in 2018, we have issued 357 technical review guidelines for drugs and 494 for medical devices — more than the total over previous decades — providing strong support for pharmaceutical R&D and technical evaluations. In recent years, China's pharmaceutical innovations have shown remarkable momentum, with new product launches picking up the pace. From January to August of this year, the NMPA approved 31 innovative drugs and 46 innovative medical devices, representing year-on-year increases of 19.23% and 12.16%, respectively. Innovative drugs concerning small-molecule targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cell therapies have made significant progress when entering global markets, with international recognition for Chinese innovative drugs increasing. High-end medical devices, including surgical robots, artificial hearts and carbon ion therapy systems, have also been launched, with some products achieving global leadership.

Third, we have upheld the rule of law by improving the legal and regulatory framework for drug management. The rule of law is the strongest defense for drug safety and ensures the best business environment for the pharmaceutical industry. We are fast-tracking improvements to the legal framework for drug regulation, thus adhering to law-based administration and oversight to ensure that all regulatory work operates within a sound legal structure. In recent years, we have formulated and revised the Drug Administration Law, the Vaccine Administration Law, the Regulations for the Supervision and Administration of Medical Devices and the Regulations on Supervision and Administration of Cosmetics, along with 14 core rules supporting these two laws and two regulations, thus creating an upgraded legal framework for drug regulation in the new era.

Fourth, we have upheld the fundamental task of capacity building and achieved concrete progress in modernizing medical product regulation. The supervision of medical products demands specialized technical knowledge, necessitating robust regulatory capabilities as a foundation. Highlighting the fundamental and strategic importance of modernizing medical products regulation, the NMPA has strived to strengthen its foundation, shore up weak links and remove development bottlenecks. The NMPA has highlighted the pivotal role of digitalization in advancing medical product regulation. It has developed and enhanced an information-based system for vaccine and drug traceability. Currently, every vaccine dose in China can be traced from origin to destination, ensuring accountability throughout the process. The NMPA has established a nationwide smart supervision platform for medical products. This platform has digitized the entire registration and application process, allowing all NMPA government services to be accessed online. In addition, the NMPA has earnestly implemented the country's action plan on scientific drug administration. It has made steady progress in establishing key national labs for scientific oversight of medical products and continued developing new tools, standards and measures for medical products supervision. The NMPA has strengthened efforts to train personnel for medical product regulatory authorities. It has adjusted plans to establish national inspection centers for vaccines and special medical products. Four subcenters for review and inspection have been set up in the Yangtze River Delta and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Finally, the NMPA has cultivated skilled professionals for medical product inspection at national and provincial levels, establishing a robust talent pool to support the modernization of medical product oversight.

Moving forward, the NMPA will further enhance its highly effective regulatory measures, maintain stringent safety standards and drive high-quality growth. These initiatives aim to protect and improve public health while advancing China's transition from a major pharmaceutical manufacturer to a global pharmaceutical powerhouse.

That concludes my remarks. My colleagues and I will now be happy to answer your questions. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open for questions. Please raise your hand and state the news outlet you represent before asking your questions.

CCTV:

The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has outlined reforms to boost industries like biomedicine and medical equipment. What specific plans does the NMPA have to implement these reform directives from the CPC Central Committee?

Li Li:

Thank you. I will answer your question. The resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee outlines the need to improve the policy and governance systems for promoting the development of strategic industries such as biomedicine. It also stresses efforts to improve the institutions and mechanisms for bolstering key industrial chains such as medical equipment, as well as improve the mechanisms for supporting the development of innovative drugs and medical equipment. Following these guidelines, regulatory authorities for medical products are crafting a wide-ranging policy package to intensify reforms in medical product oversight. Our goals are to create a globally competitive ecosystem for pharmaceutical innovation, expedite innovative drug development, facilitate faster market access for new medical devices, and improve the overall quality and effectiveness of the pharmaceutical industry. These reform initiatives will be wide-ranging, tackling various stages of the process and addressing fundamental challenges. Let me briefly outline a few key areas:

First, the NMPA will bolster support for drug development and innovation. Focusing on key innovative drugs and medical devices that receive national support, the NMPA will enhance its services and guidance in the reviewing, approval, testing and verification process. It will provide guidance for enterprises, ensuring their R&D strategy is driven by clinical value and centered on patient needs. The NMPA will also enhance policy communication and technical counseling concerning product registration and application. It will incorporate the technical expertise of medical product regulatory authorities at both national and provincial levels, establish multi-layered and multifaceted communication methods, and utilize online platforms to host virtual lectures on the review and approval of drugs and medical devices. In addition, the NMPA will work to improve the accessibility of drugs and medical devices. It will implement the CPC Central Committee's decision and arrangements on deepening the coordinated development and governance of health care, medical insurance and pharmaceuticals and proactively support the introduction of innovative drugs and medical devices into hospitals and their inclusion in the medical insurance program.     

Second, the NMPA will improve the efficiency of product review and approval processes. The NMPA will speed up the review and approval of urgently needed clinical products, giving priority to certain eligible products. It will reduce the duration of various phases, including technical evaluation and registration-related verification and testing procedures, to expedite the overall approval timeline. It will also reduce the time needed for implied approval of clinical trials, and launch pilot programs in cities like Beijing and Shanghai to cut the review and approval period for innovative drugs' clinical trials from 60 working days to 30. Moreover, the NMPA will optimize the evaluation and approval process for supplementary applications of medical products. It will launch pilot programs in provinces with adequate resources. These programs will offer preliminary services for post-market registration verification and testing changes, aiming to substantially reduce the timeframe for supplementary applications.

Third, the NMPA will support opening up and cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector. The NMPA will enhance the adoption and application of internationally accepted regulatory standards in China. It will also support the initiation of global multi-center clinical trials and promote simultaneous R&D, application, review, and marketing of international medical products in China and worldwide. The NMPA will explore the divided contract production of biological products, and launch pilot programs in select regions for the production of innovative and urgently needed bioproducts. Moreover, the NMPA will bolster support for the import and export of pharmaceuticals, accelerate the administrative approval process of new drugs that have already been introduced to overseas markets, and encourage multinationals to relocate their production line for originator medicines and chemicals, bioproducts and high-end medical devices to China. Furthermore, the NMPA will refine policies concerning export and sales certification for pharmaceuticals. We will encourage more Chinese pharmaceutical companies to participate in global trade, enabling Chinese pharmaceuticals to benefit people all over the world. Thank you!

Jinan Daily APP:

As we know, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an essential component of our country's conventional pharmacology and a treasure of the Chinese nation. What efforts have medical regulatory departments made to promote the preservation and innovative development of TCM? Thank you. 

Li Li:

Thank you for your question. TCM is the material foundation for the inheritance and innovative development of Chinese medicine. The NMPA is continuously improving its regulatory system to align with the unique characteristics of TCM. I will invite Mr. Zhao Junning to answer this question.

Zhao Junning:

I'll answer this question. The NMPA has diligently implemented the policy decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We've upheld fundamental principles while breaking new ground, taking multiple steps to promote the preservation and innovative development of TCM.

First, we're improving regulatory frameworks to guide the development of TCM. We are advancing revisions to the Regulations for Implementation of the Drug Administration Law and the Regulations on the Protection of Traditional Chinese Medicines. We have successively issued the Special Provisions for Traditional Chinese Medicines Registration, and the Special Provisions on the Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Standards, and are currently studying and formulating special provisions for the supervision and administration of TCM production. Previously, we have published Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) for Chinese Crude Drugs. All of this has actively strengthened our regulatory framework. We have also issued measures for further strengthening the scientific supervision of TCM to promote its inheritance and innovative development, introducing 35 measures in total. These measures follow TCM's unique regulatory characteristics, comprehensively promoting the preservation and innovative development of TCM across the entire chain.

Second, we're reforming the review and approval process to drive the development of TCM. Fully respecting the laws governing the development of Chinese medicine, we have innovatively established an evidence system for TCM registration and review that integrates TCM theories, human use experience, and clinical trials. This "three-in-one" evidence approach allows us to clearly articulate the logic behind TCM's safety, efficacy and quality control, supporting the market launch of new TCM drugs. In recent years, enthusiasm for the research and development of new TCM drugs has surged. The number of clinical trials, market authorization applications, and approvals for new TCM drugs have increased in tandem, all reaching double digits in each of the past two years. In 2023, 10 new TCM drugs were approved for market launch. This year, eight new drugs were launched, offering new options to meet clinical needs.

Third, we're establishing a regulatory system to safeguard the development of TCM. We adhere to a problem-oriented and risk management approach, continuously conducting annual special inspections of TCM production, for-cause inspections, random inspections, exploratory research, and quality monitoring of Chinese medicinal materials. We're deepening efforts to consolidate and improve drug safety, strengthening oversight of online drug sales, and optimizing the distribution and management of Chinese medicinal materials. We're exploring ways to standardize the processing of Chinese medicinal materials at their source and guide the orderly development of Chinese medicinal materials production, improving quality from the outset. The overall passing rate for TCM decoction pieces has risen from 88% in 2018 to around 97% currently. The overall pass rate for TCM drugs has remained stable at over 99% for a long time, effectively ensuring that TCM plays a vital role in clinical practice. The demonstration and promotion of GAP for Chinese crude drugs are showing initial results, effectively stimulating the internal drive of TCM production enterprises.

That's all for this question. Thank you!

Cnr.cn:

My question is about medications for rare diseases. We know that in recent years, the issue of medication for patients with rare diseases has attracted widespread attention from society, and I am also very concerned about it. What measures has the NMPA taken to encourage innovation, R&D and introduction of medicines for rare diseases? Thank you.

Huang Guo:

Thank you for your question. Medications for rare diseases indeed require the attention of the entire society. To meet the medication needs of patients with rare diseases, the NMPA has continuously introduced a series of incentive policies and promoted R&D and marketing of medicines for rare diseases through multiple channels. In summary, there are mainly three channels:

First, we're encouraging independent innovation. By promoting the R&D of new medicines in China, we aim to address the lack of available treatments for certain rare diseases. As you may know, we have established accelerated pathways for rare disease drug applications, including breakthrough therapy and medicine designations, conditional approvals, and priority review and approval procedures. Technically, we're enhancing the efficiency of R&D and market launch for rare disease drugs through several methods. These efforts include strengthening communication and guidance during the R&D process, allowing rolling submissions of data, reasonably determining alternative clinical endpoint s, and shortening review timelines. In other words, our goal is speed.

Second, we're expediting the import process to accelerate the entry of rare disease drugs being researched or produced overseas into the Chinese market. On the one hand, we're supporting multinational pharmaceutical companies in conducting simultaneous R&D, application, and market launch in China. To this end, we've implemented a series of measures, such as establishing an implied license system for clinical trials and accepting overseas clinical trial data. On the other hand, we're encouraging the import of rare disease medicines already marketed abroad. Currently, we're soliciting the public's opinions on the Announcement on Issues Pertaining to the Review and Approval of Overseas New Drugs Urgently Needed in Clinical Settings. For drugs that meet the requirements, we're implementing measures to encourage import applications, including waiving clinical trials, granting priority review and approval, shortening inspection timelines, and reducing the number of inspection batches and samples.

Third, a temporary import channel to try and ensure the availability of urgently needed clinical drugs under special circumstances. In 2022, we collaborated with the National Health Commission to develop and release the Work Plan for the Temporary Import of Urgently Needed Clinical Medications. Over the past two years, this channel has ensured the supply of urgently needed medications like clobazam and sapropterin hydrochloride for rare diseases.

In addition, we have strengthened collaboration with relevant local authorities and departments to create more channels for the clinical use of drugs for rare diseases. Our measures include supporting medical institutions within Hainan's Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area with importing urgently needed clinical medications, as well as supporting the establishment of a pilot zone in the Beijing Tianzhu Comprehensive Bonded Zone to ensure the supply of rare disease medications.

Altogether, these measures have led to a significant increase in both the number and speed of rare disease medications entering the market in recent years. Since 2018, over 130 rare disease drugs have been approved for the market, with as many as 37 being approved from January to August 2024.

In the next step, we will continue to make sustained efforts to build and develop these important channels for ensuring the availability of rare disease medications. We will closely collaborate with health, healthcare security and other departments to increase policy support and encourage companies to innovate and conduct research and development, so that more drugs for rare diseases can become available. Thank you!

Poster News:

I noticed that the resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has outlined plans to refine the food and drug safety responsibility system. Which aspects primarily touch upon the drug safety responsibility system? What specific ideas and measures does the medical products administration have in this regard? Thank you.

Li Li:

Thank you for your questions. I will address them. The implementation of responsibilities is the basis and premise for ensuring drug safety. It can be said that the reforms outlined by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee regarding the refinement of the drug safety responsibility system capture the key to ensuring drug safety. This system involves a wide range of elements. We need to coordinate the implementation of supervisory responsibilities of government departments, the primary responsibilities of companies and the jurisdictional responsibilities of local Party committees and local governments, so that responsibilities are shared and efforts are united.

First, the drug regulatory authorities must fulfill their supervisory responsibilities. The supervision of drugs is a duty assigned to the drug regulatory authorities by law, and we are duty-bound. Drug regulatory authorities at all levels must strictly implement supervisory powers and enhance collaboration across regions and levels. The responsibilities and the imperative of fulfilling them must be communicated to specific officials in specific positions. We need to continuously improve the risk consultation mechanism for drug safety and help establish a regular and sustainable approach to identifying, assessing and addressing drug risks within key links, such as clinical trial management, contract drug manufacturing and online drug sales, as well as with key products like vaccines and drugs and medical devices chosen through centralized procurement, and also in key areas, such as rural and suburban areas. In the meantime, we need to strengthen collaboration with public security, health and healthcare security departments to improve systems, such as coordination between administrative law enforcement and criminal justice and joint disciplinary actions, and intensify law enforcement efforts to effectively deter illegal and criminal activities in the field of drug safety.

Second, pharmaceutical companies must fulfill their primary responsibilities. Drug safety depends not only on supervision, but also on production. As those who conduct drug research and development, production, and distribution, pharmaceutical companies hold primary responsibility for drug safety, so they must assume legal obligations for ensuring drug quality and safety. Drug regulatory authorities need to enforce effective supervision, provide more legal and cautionary education to companies, and encourage them to establish robust quality management systems tailored to their specific circumstances and products, so that every participant in the drug production and distribution chain meets their responsibilities, and drug quality and safety are ensured as a result.

Third, local Party committees and local governments must fulfill their jurisdictional responsibilities. General Secretary Xi Jinping has said that "it is a bounden responsibility for Party committees and governments at all levels to ensure drug safety. " According to the requirement for Party committees and governments to share these responsibilities, all localities should make it clear that Party committees and governments take overall responsibility for drug safety within their jurisdictions, with their primary leaders serving as the chief individual responsible for drug safety. Drug regulatory authorities will improve the mechanism for admonition regarding drug safety responsibilities. Localities will be encouraged to integrate drug safety into their economic and social development plans, to regularly assess and analyze their local drug safety conditions, to strengthen technical support capabilities for drug review, inspection, testing, etc., and to support supervisory authorities in fulfilling their legal responsibilities to ensure drug safety for their own regions.

At the same time, we should engage society more effectively in joint efforts for drug safety. Given that drug safety is crucial for people's health and lives, we must supervise drug safety for the people and with their support. We should actively develop teams to assist with supervision through collecting and communicating drug safety information as well as engaging in volunteer activities, and fully leverage the role of professionals, such as pharmaceutical company employees and licensed pharmacists. Through these efforts, we will promote public participation in joint efforts for drug safety. Thank you.

China News Service: 

We noticed that the NMPA publicly solicited opinions in August on the draft Medical Devices Management Law. Could you explain the initial motivation and significance behind the formulation of this specific law? Thank you.

Lei Ping: 

Thank you for your question, and for your interest in and support for the NMPA's legal development efforts. In recent years, the NMPA has made rapid progress in its legal framework. We have fully revised the Drug Administration Law, enacted the world's first comprehensive Vaccine Administration Law, and revised the Regulations on the Supervision and Administration of Medical Devices and the Regulations on the Supervision and Administration of Cosmetics, thereby completing the key pillars of China's pharmaceutical regulatory system.

In order to ensure the safety and efficiency of medical devices and to promote high-quality industry development to better meet the public's demand for high-quality medical devices, the 14th NPC Standing Committee has included the Medical Devices Management Law in its legislative plan.

Elevating the management of medical devices from administrative regulations to a law not only raises the legal status, but also enhances the content. There were three main considerations in drafting the Medical Devices Management Law. First, it meets the practical need to promote the high-quality development of the medical devices industry. In recent years, China's medical devices industry has shown strong growth, with a compound annual growth rate exceeding 10% for many years. A specialized law is necessary to elevate the industry to a national strategic level, providing comprehensive and systematic regulations from technology investment, financial support, capacity building, industry standards and academia-industry collaboration, to industry-wide coordination. Second, it is crucial for establishing a comprehensive and systematic regulatory framework. This specialized law will provide a more complete and authoritative legal foundation for governing the medical devices industry. Third, it aligns with the requirements of China's participation in international exchanges and cooperation. A dedicated law will help synchronize with international medical device management laws and better leverage China's role and position in relevant international organizations.

The draft Medical Devices Management Law is currently open for public consultation, and we encourage everyone to offer valuable suggestions to help shape this new law. Together, we can ensure the safety of medical devices for the public. Thank you.

Jimu News: 

The quality of pharmaceuticals is directly related to public health and safety. We noticed that the NMPA is implementing a drug safety consolidation and enhancement campaign. Could you provide an update on its progress and effectiveness? And how does the NMPA plan to further strengthen pharmaceutical quality and safety supervision? Thank you.

Li Li: 

Thank you for your interest in the drug safety consolidation and enhancement campaign. I would like to invite Mr. Zhao to provide more details.

Zhao Junning: 

I will answer this question. The NMPA places great emphasis on drug safety, consistently working to purify the pharmaceutical market and maintain a stable and improving drug safety landscape. Since June 2023, the NMPA has been implementing a one-and-a-half-year drug safety consolidation and enhancement campaign, aimed at solidifying the foundation of drug safety and protecting public health.

First, we are focused on key issues and are actively resolving risks and hidden dangers. By targeting key products, key processes, key regions and key enterprises, we have conducted special inspections of pharmaceutical operations and uses, special inspections of special medicines, special checks on delegated manufacturing for medical device registrants, supervisory spot checks of clinical trials for medical devices, and special inspections of hair dye cosmetics. We aim to identify and resolve risks and hidden dangers through multiple channels and dimensions, utilizing our capabilities for risk warning, identification and resolution, and taking effective measures to address potential drug safety risks promptly.

Second, we are cracking down on major cases and strictly punishing illegal activities. We are using means such as exposing typical cases and publishing lists of those committing serious violations of law and trust. We ensure that penalties are enforced against individuals responsible for illegal acts, implement joint punishments, ban individuals from the industry, and prohibit certain practices, all in a concerted effort to ensure the stability of drug safety. 

Third, we will improve institutional mechanisms and comprehensively enhance regulatory capabilities. We are advancing the implementation of local management responsibilities, strengthening departmental regulatory responsibilities, and reinforcing corporate principal responsibilities to ensure comprehensive drug safety safety. The NMPA, in conjunction with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), has issued the Guidance on Strengthening Cross-Regional and Multi-Level Drug Regulatory Collaboration, which enhances the coordination among national, provincial, city and county-level drug regulatory departments throughout the entire lifecycle of drugs. In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security, the NMPA has jointly issued the Guidelines for the Inspection and Determination of Suspected Criminal Cases in the Pharmaceutical Field to promote effective integration of administrative and criminal enforcement efforts. A total of 142 city and county-level drug regulatory departments have been designated as grassroots contact points, achieving a demonstrative and leading effect. Local drug regulatory departments are actively developing teams of township pharmaceutical safety co-managers and rural pharmaceutical safety information officers, extending drug regulatory oversight to townships and rural areas, and enhancing comprehensive governance capabilities at the primary level.

Next, the NMPA will continue to focus on key tasks of the drug safety consolidation and enhancement campaign. We will intensify our efforts, focus on investigating a number of major cases, and strictly punish illegal and non-compliant behaviors. We will also strengthen the investigation and resolution of risks and hidden dangers to solidify the foundation of drug safety. Thank you.

People's Daily Health App:

In recent years, the NMPA has strongly encouraged the R&D as well as innovation of medical devices. What progress has been made in the review and approval of innovative medical devices? Thank you.

Li Li:

Thank you for your question. Innovative medical devices are a crucial track in the innovation and R&D of pharmaceuticals. I would like to invite Mr. Lei to answer this question.

Lei Ping:

I will answer this question. The NMPA is fully committed to promoting the R&D and innovation of medical devices, rapidly transforming scientific research achievements into innovative products.

We have collaborated by integrating resources and strengthening inter-ministry cooperation. In partnership with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), we have organized and implemented a leading project system in the field of innovation. We have selected 48 artificial intelligence (AI) projects and 40 high-end medical device projects in the field of biomaterials, providing them with key support during the application process. We have established three innovation cooperation platforms for AI medical devices, biomaterials and high-end medical equipment, bringing together the strengths of industries, universities, research institutes, hospitals and regulatory authorities.

We have advanced regulatory science research, exploring the application of real-world data, evaluation methods for next-generation gene sequencing products, and other new technological areas. This has led to several new tools, standards and methods, which are now being applied in regulatory work.

We have comprehensively innovated the review mechanism, shifting the focus of medical device technical evaluations to the earlier stages of product R&D. This has accelerated the tackling of key core technologies, helping China achieve significant breakthroughs in high-end medical devices. We have established two medical device evaluation and inspection sub-centers in the Yangtze River Delta and the Greater Bay Area. For provinces with large medical device industries, we have set up service mechanisms to ensure that innovative medical device companies can receive timely professional guidance.

We have identified four key areas for support: AI, novel medical biomaterials, high-end medical imaging, and medical robots. We are working to eliminate bottlenecks and challenges hindering the development of these industries.

We regularly organize regulatory consultations to oversee the nation's first-in-class medical devices and those with complex manufacturing processes. We actively guide and urge enterprises to fully uphold their primary responsibility for quality and safety, ensuring the quality and safety of products.

To date, the NMPA has approved 296 innovative medical devices for market entry, primarily in high-end fields such as implantable interventional devices, advanced imaging, and AI-powered medical devices. Some of these products have reached a leading international position. Examples include: third-generation non-contact ventricular assist devices, which provide effective life support for patients with advanced refractory left-sided heart failure awaiting heart transplants; carbon ion therapy system with independent intellectual property rights in China, which offers a more effective treatment option for certain malignant tumors, having successfully treated over 1,400 patients; advanced deep brain stimulation devices, which have been clinically applied in over 480 hospitals, implanted in 27,000 patients and reached clinical application in eight countries; and innovative PET-CT products, which can image the entire human body with a single scan, offering high resolution scans at low radiation doses. These innovative medical devices not only fill domestic gaps but also significantly reduce the costs of diagnosis and treatment, directly benefiting the public.

Going forward, the NMPA will continue to adhere to a people-centered approach, constantly summarizing experiences and optimizing procedures to launch more high-quality, high-end innovative medical devices. This will ensure that the public truly feels the tangible benefits. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald：

As regulatory capabilities continue to improve, the informatization level at the NMPA has also seen continuous enhancements. Could you briefly introduce the NMPA's approach, initiatives and achievements in intelligent supervision? Thank you.

Li Li:

Thank you for your question. Informatization serves as a multiplier of drug regulatory effectiveness and is the driving force behind the modernization of drug regulation. For more specific details on this matter, I'll defer to Deputy Director Mr. Huang for his response.

Huang Guo:

The NMPA places great importance on the development of information technology. It has explicitly stated its intention to use information technology as a guiding force for the modernization of drug regulation and has continuously implemented a smart regulation action plan to enhance supervision through new standards, technologies and tools. At the same time, we hope to leverage regulatory informatization to drive the digital transformation and upgrading of the pharmaceutical industry.

Let me provide a few examples. For instance, we have focused on facilitating businesses and the public by both optimizing and upgrading government services. Given the highly technical and complex nature of drug evaluation and approval, we have developed and improved an integrated system for the registration, filing and approval of drugs, medical devices and cosmetics. This system meets the requirements to efficiently complete a task, enabling full integration and coordination of the entire process from acceptance and evaluation to approval and certification.

As Director Li Li mentioned earlier, the NMPA has now realized 100% online processing for administrative services. Furthermore, all business-related licenses at the bureau level are fully digitalized, with over 170,000 electronic certificates issued to date. Businesses now only need to visit a unified online platform or a single service portal to handle all of their affairs.

For instance, we focus on risk prevention and control by continuously strengthening the supervision of drugs circulation. We are enhancing the use of big data in drug regulation, advancing production line coding and full-process traceability for key products. We have also started phasing in a unique identification system for medical devices, establishing a unique identification database and promoting a "one code manages the entire process" approach. Additionally, in light of the rapid growth of online sales of drugs, medical devices and cosmetics, we are continuously developing an online sales monitoring platform, using an "internet-based management" approach to strengthen problem detection and resolution.

Here is a set of data: currently, over 27,000 websites are under routine monitoring, with an average of more than 10 million product pages monitored each month. A cross-level collaborative mechanism has been established for network monitoring, risk warning, risk identification, verification and resolution as well as risk elimination. This mechanism effectively and continuously works to purify the online sales environment.

Additionally, we have focused on the industry development scenario by steadily advancing the digital regulation of drug production. While continuously innovating smart regulation methods and approaches, we strive to promote and integrate smart regulation with intelligent manufacturing in China's pharmaceutical industry. For key products such as vaccines, blood products and special drugs, we have developed digital technology guidelines for production and inspection to support the digital transformation and upgrading of relevant manufacturing enterprises.

Currently, all vaccine manufacturers in China have implemented electronic recordkeeping and management for production and inspection data, significantly enhancing the level of quality and safety assurance. This year, the NMPA revised the appendix on blood products in the Good Manufacturing Practice for Drugs. Additionally, the Three-Year Action Plan for Intelligent Supervision of Blood Product Production and the Technical Guidelines for Electronic Records of Blood Product Production Inspection have been introduced to address challenges in the quality management of blood products through informatization, promoting the overall transformation and upgrading of blood product production.

Going forward, we will continue to accelerate the development of smart regulation, with a focus on the development and application of new technologies such as artificial intelligence. We will leverage digitalization and smart technologies to enhance the efficient governance of drug safety.

That concludes my explanation. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Next question, please. I notice two journalists both have their hands raised.

Red Star News：

In recent years, the cosmetics market has experienced rapid growth, and the use of cosmetics has become part of people's everyday life. Could you please share what measures the NMPA has taken to regulate the development of the cosmetics industry? What are the future plans and considerations in this regard? Thank you.

Li Li:

Thank you for your questions. Cosmetics are products made for beauty, embodying people's aspirations for a better life. I will now invite Mr. Lei to respond to these questions.

Lei Ping：

I will answer these questions. The Regulations on Supervision and Administration of Cosmetics was implemented in 2021. With the enactment of these Regulations, the regulatory framework for cosmetics has gradually developed into a comprehensive and cohesive system. This marks a new chapter in the regulation and development of the cosmetics industry, resulting in continuous improvements within the industry environment.

First, the construction of the regulatory framework has entered a new era. We have organized the formulation and issuance of three departmental rules: the Provisions for Registration and Filing of Cosmetics, the Provision for Supervision and Administration of Manufacturing and Marketing of Cosmetics, and the Provisions for Toothpaste Regulation. More than 20 normative documents and over 40 technical guidelines have been issued, covering cosmetics registration and filing data management, label management, production quality management, online operation management, and supervision of children's cosmetics. This has essentially formed a well-structured regulatory system covering the entire cosmetics industry chain.

Second, new breakthroughs have been made in reforming the review and approval system and developing the safety evaluation system. The provisions have established a system for cosmetics registrants and filing applicants. We have implemented categorized management based on risk levels. We have also formulated safety and efficacy evaluation standards tailored to cosmetics characteristics. Meanwhile, we have strengthened the development of information platforms, improving smart supervision capabilities. Here are some statistics: As of the end of July 2024, there were 20,152 cosmetics registrants and filing applicants nationwide, 3,145 domestic responsible persons for cosmetics, and 5,846 cosmetics manufacturers. There were 1.791 million general cosmetics (1.735 million made in China and 56,000 imported) and 28,326 special cosmetics (23,775 made in China and 4,551 imported).

Third, new progress has been made in post-marketing supervision. A consultation mechanism for cosmetics safety risks has been established to regularly assess and address risks and hidden dangers in the cosmetics sector. We've established and continually improved the monitoring platform for online cosmetics sales, conducting nationwide monitoring of cosmetics sold online. We have strengthened the daily supervision of cosmetics. Over the past three years, more than 20,000 batches of cosmetic products have been sampled annually for national examination, and over 5,000 batches have been sampled annually for national safety risk monitoring. We have also published 22 typical cases of cracking down on illegal and criminal activities concerning cosmetics.

Fourth, we've entered a new phase in developing a system of standards. We established the NMPA Standardization Technical Committee for Cosmetics, further enhancing the management of cosmetics standards. We have continued to advance the formulation and revision of the Cosmetics Safety Technical Standards and actively promoted the revision of relevant mandatory national standards. Since 2021, we have formulated and revised 96 cosmetics standards.

Next, the NMPA will continue to deepen reforms, encourage innovation, strengthen oversight, and crack down on illegal activities. These efforts aim to further contribute to the high-quality development of the "beauty economy." Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

China Daily:

The issue of pediatric medication has received wide attention and has also been one of the NMPA's priorities in recent years. What progress has been made? What follow-up work will be done by the NMPA? Thank you.

Li Li:

Children are the future of our country and represent our greatest hope. Thanks to the reporter for your interest in pediatric medication. I'll now turn to Mr. Huang to answer this question.

Huang Guo:

Pediatric medication is a common global challenge and a complex issue. Due to the difficulties in research and development, some diseases still lack appropriate treatments. For other conditions, medications exist, but questions remain about their use in children: whether they can be used, how they should be used, and unclear labeling information. In response to these issues, the NMPA has implemented multiple measures to encourage R&D and innovation in pediatric medications, standardize information on pediatric use in drug labels, and meet the clinical needs of young patients.

First, we have implemented a priority review and approval policy to accelerate the marketing of pediatric medications. We have worked with relevant departments to formulate a list of pediatric medications to encourage R&D and applications, achieving good results over the past three years. In 2021, 47 pediatric medications were approved, increasing to 66 in 2022 and 92 in 2023. From January to August this year, we have already approved 49 medications. These figures show a strong momentum of rapid growth in pediatric drug development. For example, we recently expedited the approval of Selumetinib Hydrogen Sulfate Capsules, currently the world's only specialized medication for treating neurofibroma in children. This medication was developed using a global synchronous R&D strategy. Based on international multicenter clinical trial evidence, it received simultaneous global marketing approval through our priority assessment and approval procedure, which will benefit many children.

Second, we have improved medication package inserts and added information on pediatric use. The NMPA has issued the Work Procedures for Adding Pediatric Medication Information to the Package Inserts of Marketed Drugs (for Trial Implementation). This initiative focuses on urgently needed pediatric clinical drugs, encouraging companies to strengthen scientific research while regulatory authorities conduct rigorous evaluations. As a result, information on pediatric use is being added to drug labels, enhancing the safety and efficacy of medications in pediatric clinical practice.

To date, we have issued revision announcements for 49 product specifications across 15 drug varieties in three batches. The newly added pediatric use information covers antineoplastic drugs, such as those for childhood leukemia, which is of particular concern, as well as medications for severe mental disorders in children, including autism, depression, schizophrenia and other serious conditions.

Additionally, we have accelerated improvements to R&D technical requirements, aligning them with international standards. We've issued 21 standards and guidelines for pediatric drug development, comparable to those of regulatory agencies in developed countries. Among these, the Guidance on Real-World Studies to Support Pediatric Drug Development and Regulatory Evaluation of and the Guidance for the Design and Evaluation of Pediatric Drug Palatability are world firsts, placing us at the forefront of global regulatory practices in this field.

Moving forward, the NMPA will continue to prioritize the safety and accessibility of pediatric medications. With the attention and support of society at large, we will further strengthen our support for the R&D and production of pediatric drugs, enhance the supply of medications for children, and provide greater reassurance to parents. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

This concludes today's press conference. Thank you to our speakers and to all members of the media for attending. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Wang Wei, Zhu Bochen, Wang Qian, Wang Ziteng, Huang Shan, Zhang Jiaqi, Zhou Jing, Xiang Bin, Yuan Fang, Yang Chuanli, Li Huiru, Liu Caiyi, Liu Qiang, Xu Kailin, Wang Yanfang, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Lei Haichao, minister of the National Health Commission (NHC)

Mr. Wang Hesheng, vice minister of the NHC and administrator of the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration

Mr. Yu Xuejun, vice minister of the NHC

Ms. Yu Yanhong, a member of the leading Party members group of the NHC and commissioner of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 12, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference hosted by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Lei Haichao, minister of the National Health Commission (NHC), to brief you on relevant developments and to answer your questions. Also present today are Mr. Wang Hesheng, vice minister of the NHC and administrator of the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration; Mr. Yu Xuejun, vice minister of the NHC; and Ms. Yu Yanhong, a member of the Leading Party Members Group of the NHC and commissioner of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Lei for his introduction. 

Lei Haichao:

Dear journalists, ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I am pleased to attend this press conference on high-quality development hosted by the SCIO. Today, major officials from the NHC, the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration are all present. We are willing to discuss and share information about current work concerning health care, disease prevention and control, and traditional Chinese medicine, as well as to answer questions that you may find of interest. First, let me provide an overview of the basic situation and relevant circumstances in health care development.

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the national health care system has adhered to the Party's guidelines for health care work in the new era, implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and promoted the high-quality development of health care. We have achieved a series of important accomplishments and positive progress.

First, we have adhered to prevention as the main priority, protecting the health of the people from the source. We have implemented the Healthy China Action Plan and patriotic health campaigns, and carried out a series of health knowledge promotional activities. Especially in recent years, the public's demand for health-related knowledge has been very urgent and diversified. The NHC has consistently and frequently released health-related knowledge, disseminating health information to promote good lifestyles and habits among residents and the public. In this regard, we have had positive interactions with the general public. Since this year, we have launched activities related to the 24 solar terms, specifically the "Seasons, Solar Terms and Health" thematic knowledge release, which has attracted significant public attention. This type of dissemination is also a way to promote brilliant traditional Chinese culture. Combining the changes in the solar terms, we explain to the public health-related knowledge according to time and location that they should pay attention to. That has been well received by the public. At the same time, we have vigorously carried out patriotic health campaigns. Here, I would like to share some data. We have now established 1,052 national healthy cities, counties and districts, and 2,637 national healthy towns. Thanks to the program implemented nationwide to promote equal access to basic public health services, the per-capita allowance for basic public health services has been increased from 15 yuan in 2009 to 94 yuan ($13.41) in 2024, with public finance playing an active driving role to ensure that. Meanwhile, through our monitoring, the health literacy of the population is gradually improving and some major risk factors for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, among other chronic diseases, have been further controlled.

Second, we have focused on the grassroots level to provide residents with convenient and accessible medical care services. Focusing on the grassroots is a requirement of the Party's health guidelines in the new era. The NHC resolutely implements the work guideline focusing on the grassroots, treating the immediate concerns of the people as a top priority to be implemented. Here, I would also like to share more with you. Over the years, through relentless efforts, we have promoted the expansion and decentralization of high-quality medical resources. We have now established national medical centers in 13 categories, which are not located in Beijing but are planned across the country. Additionally, we have established 125 national regional medical centers and promoted the construction of provincial regional medical centers, making the distribution and layout of medical resources more balanced and closer to the people. Moreover, we have organized and encouraged tertiary and secondary hospitals to provide assistance and support at the grassroots level. Yesterday afternoon, the NHC organized a national medical tour team to carry out this new form of service. This year, all 44 hospitals under the jurisdiction of the NHC will participate in the national medical tour, bringing high-quality and efficient services to the people in the central and western regions, especially those living in counties. At the same time, our national medical tour team will also help local areas improve their technical and management levels, extending the capabilities of our national team to the county level. According to our monitoring, 92% of county-level hospitals have now reached both the service capacity and the level of secondary hospitals or above. Additionally, our county-level medical institutions also vigorously assist and support township and countryside grassroots, such as township health centers and community health service centers, forming a virtuous interaction where higher-level medical institutions help lower-level.

Third, we have been committed to public welfare, deepening the coordinated reform and governance of health care, health insurance and pharmaceuticals. General Secretary Xi Jinping has made it clear that public welfare is the prominent feature of the health care industry. In collaboration with relevant departments, the NHC has been advancing and deepening medical reforms. Over the past decade, especially since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have historically eliminated the old operating mechanism of charging more for medicines and medical consumables to make up for low prices for medical services and have preliminarily established a new operating mechanism dominated by medical services. Public medical institutions' income has shifted from the original three channels to two: government financial subsidies and medical service fees. The old mechanism of relying on medicines and consumables to compensate for medical services no longer exists. Public welfare has been further strengthened, which has also greatly enhanced the role of public hospitals. In the process of advancing medical reforms, Sanming city in Fujian province has created many fresh experiences, which have been studied and promoted in many places across the country. Some practices from Sanming, Fujian, have also been elevated to national policies, ensuring good implementation and execution, as well as re-creation and re-innovation within health work.

Fourth, we have been committed to adjusting and improving the childbirth policy to promote balanced population growth in the long run. Based on the size, structure and trends of the population, we have worked to improve and adjust the childbirth policy from the perspective of promoting high-quality economic and social development. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have successively introduced adjustments to the childbirth policy, including the two-child policy for couples of which one partner is an only child, the universal two-child policy and the three-child policy, which have been welcomed by the public and also respond to the general environment and situation of the country's rapidly aging population. Additionally, we persist in optimizing and enhancing maternal and child health care services as well as improving the level of childbirth services. Currently, our indicators related to maternal and child health are among the leading in upper-middle-income countries.

Fifth, we remain committed to advancing the integration of science, technology, education and talent while nurturing and developing new quality productive forces. By the end of last year, China accounted for over 20% of new drugs under development globally. This marked a significant breakthrough, placing China second worldwide in new drug development. As of late last year, over 80,000 rural medical students, trained through government-funded programs, had graduated and gone on to work in township health centers and village clinics, ensuring a steady flow of skilled health care professionals to rural areas. Additionally, more than 500,000 medical graduates with bachelor's degrees or higher enter the workforce annually. This influx of new professionals provides strong momentum for the development of our health care system. I'd also like to share that, as of the end of 2023, China's health care system employed 15.23 million staff, including 12.48 million professional technical personnel, making our health care service the world's largest. This accomplishment reflects the positive results of 75 years of continuous effort since the founding of the People's Republic of China. Over the years, we've transitioned from merely following others to keeping pace and even leading in fields like artificial intelligence, surgical robots, medical imaging equipment, and life monitoring and emergency medical devices, achieving internationally advanced or leading standards.

Sixth, by upholding the principle of putting people and their lives first, we have achieved decisive victories in both health programs for poverty alleviation and the fight against COVID-19. We have remedied the shortfall in medical workers and institutions at the village and township level. This achievement has contributed significantly to our goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. We have successfully ensured basic health care for all. As we continue with rural revitalization, we must maintain these standards and closely watch rural residents' health and medical needs. In response to the sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to nationwide efforts, we managed to achieve what can only be described as a historic miracle — successfully navigating a pandemic in a country with such a large population. Remarkably, during the past few years of the pandemic, our life expectancy has continued to rise. According to the latest statistics, in 2023, China's average life expectancy reached 78.6 years, more than three years higher than in 2012. This growth rate is impressive, not only among developing countries but also when compared to high-income nations.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee outlined significant reforms in the health sector and proposed implementing a health-first strategy, elevating the importance of health care to a new level within the Party's overall framework. We must now actively make detailed plans to ensure its full implementation. Additionally, we remain committed to the ambitious goal of building a healthy China by 2035. This Healthy China Initiative aims to strengthen the foundation of public health, underpinning China's modernization and providing a powerful boost to the nation's development amid efforts to strengthen China's science and technology, education, and public health. Of course, many challenges and issues still need to be addressed, particularly the imbalances and inadequacies in health care development. These remain key areas of focus and goals for our future efforts.

That's all for my introduction. Next, my colleagues and I are ready to answer your questions. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the news outlet you represent before raising your questions.

Health News:

How has public health in China changed since the launch of the Healthy China Initiative? Moreover, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed a health-first development strategy. How does this relate to the Healthy China Initiative? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

Thank you for your questions. I'll take them. Health is a crucial form of human capital and the cornerstone of development. Without it, development is impossible. That's why health is integral to China's high-quality economic and social development. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council have made health a top priority. Through efforts like the Healthy China Initiative, patriotic health campaigns, and basic public health services, we've achieved significant improvements in public health awareness and literacy. Let me highlight a few key points.

First, personal health awareness has significantly improved. We've consistently promoted health education, addressing challenges like an aging population, declining birth rates and changing lifestyles. It's crucial to teach people how to avoid health risks in daily life, work, and their environment, as well as to encourage them to adopt healthy habits. One key message we emphasize is that everyone is the first person responsible for their health. To support this, the NHC, collaborating with local health authorities, disease control centers and traditional Chinese medicine agencies, has implemented frequent health education campaigns. I'm pleased to report that health literacy in China has increased from 17% in 2018 to 29.7% in 2023, an increase of nearly 13 percentage points in five years. This is a significant achievement.

Second, the overall health of the population has significantly improved. Through the Healthy China Initiative, we've enhanced medical services, especially by bringing health care closer to people's homes, making it more accessible. We've also targeted key groups with specific health concerns. For example, we've tackled issues like myopia, obesity and malnutrition in schoolchildren, as well as high cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure among middle-aged and older people, through lifestyle interventions and health education. The myopia rate among children and teenagers decreased to 51.9% in 2022, down 1.7 percentage points from 2018. Thanks to joint efforts from the education, health care, and media sectors, we've halted the worsening trend of myopia rates among youth and continue to build on this success. Additionally, we've improved workplace health by addressing occupational diseases. This includes enhancing work environments to reduce conditions like occupational hearing loss and respiratory illnesses. In 2023, newly reported cases of occupational diseases dropped by 48.6% compared to 2018. For the elderly, we've promoted health education, improved nutrition and enhanced dental care. Through the combined efforts of maternal and child health workers and society at large, the under-5 mortality rate fell to 6.2 per 1,000 in 2023, and the maternal mortality rate dropped to 15.1 per 100,000. These are the best figures we've ever recorded in China, matching the levels of advanced middle- to high-income countries globally.

Third, the impact of the environment and major diseases on public health has been steadily reduced and controlled. In recent years, through efforts to promote ecological progress and address environmental pollution, key environmental indicators such as air, water and soil quality have significantly improved, leading to a higher quality of life for the public. Additionally, we have strengthened early diagnosis and treatment for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes. As a result, the premature mortality rate from major chronic diseases dropped from 17.36% in 2018 to 15% in 2023.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee advanced the proposal to implement a health-first development strategy. Moving forward, we will diligently carry out the decisions and arrangements of the central authorities, thoroughly studying the strategic priorities, specific policies, and implementation measures of the health-first strategy. In particular, we will focus on refining governance policies and regulations in areas such as development planning, government investment, and social governance to achieve the goals of the health-first strategy. Moreover, we will make ensuring and improving public health a key objective and metric of socioeconomic development, and we will work to establish a health impact assessment system through legislation. In addition, we will continue to push forward the Healthy China Initiative, patriotic health campaigns, and the creation of healthy villages while promoting stronger collaboration and integration between hospitals and disease prevention and control institutions as well as public participation. The conducive policies and decisions laid out at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be effectively implemented in our practical work. Thank you.

Cover News:

Demographic development is a crucial matter concerning the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. In recent years, China's demographic trends have been characterized by low birth rates, an aging population, and regional disparities in population growth. Faced with these new circumstances, what's your strategy to promote high-quality population development? Thank you. 

Yu Xuejun:

Thank you for your question. The demographic changes you mentioned are the result of socioeconomic development and align with the general trends of global demographic transition and modernization. In response to this new demographic situation, General Secretary Xi Jinping made an important proposal and related requirements for supporting Chinese modernization through high-quality population development at the first meeting of the Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs under the 20th CPC Central Committee on May 5, 2023. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee also explicitly called for improving the system of fertility support policies and incentive mechanisms, fostering a birth-friendly society, and promoting high-quality population development. Demography matters to all countries. Demographic development is a high-stakes issue affecting the national economy and people's well-being. We must follow the unified arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and ensure coordinated efforts across localities and departments, making sustained efforts over the long term.

We will fulfill our duties by doing work in the following aspects. First, we will thoroughly implement the health-first development strategy, establishing a population service system that covers all people throughout their entire lives. This includes enhancing the management of major chronic diseases, increasing the average life expectancy, and steadily improving the overall health of the population. Second, in collaboration with relevant departments, we will accelerate the creation and improvement of a policy system to support childbirth, develop an inclusive childcare service system, reduce the burden of childbirth, childcare, and education on families, maintain an appropriate birth rate and population size, and promote long-term balanced population development. Third, we will strongly advocate for marriage and childbirth at an appropriate age, promote healthy childbirth and parenting, encourage shared childcare responsibilities between spouses, and respect the societal value of childbirth. We will also guide young people to consider marriage, childbirth and family from a more positive perspective, cultivating a new culture around these concepts and creating a birth-friendly society. 

Next, the NHC will thoroughly implement the central government's decisions and plans, integrating high-quality population development with improving people's quality of life. We will accelerate the execution of various tasks and address the urgent and pressing issues related to childbirth, childcare and education that concern the public. These efforts will drive high-quality population development. Thank you.

Jinan Times APP:

In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has attracted increasing attention thanks to its unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of diseases. What results have been achieved regarding high-quality TCM development since the beginning of the 14th Five-Year Plan period? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

Thank you. Ms. Yu will answer this question. 

Yu Yanhong:

Thank you for the question. General Secretary Xi Jinping has made multiple important instructions on promoting the high-quality development of TCM and related industries, and we have conscientiously implemented his important directives on TCM-related work and the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee. We have carried forward the fine elements of TCM, innovating while upholding principles. Focusing on the implementation of the TCM development plan for the 14th Five-Year Plan period and major projects for rejuvenating TCM, we have facilitated the rapid and high-quality development of TCM in the new era. According to evaluations, three out of the 15 major development targets outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan have already been achieved ahead of schedule, and progress on the remaining targets is proceeding as planned. The main results are as follows:

TCM service capabilities have improved significantly. We have focused on enhancing strengths, addressing weaknesses, building TCM hubs, and strengthening grassroots infrastructure. On the one hand, we have relied on top-tier TCM hospitals to promote the construction of national TCM research centers. So far, we have established 27 TCM programs at regional medical centers, mapped out 35 national TCM epidemic prevention and control bases, and selected 1,158 national TCM specialty departments. These efforts have expanded premium medical resources in lower-level institutions and improved the regional distribution of these resources. On the other hand, we have supported 130 prefecture-level TCM hospitals in developing key TCM specialties and over 1,000 county-level TCM hospitals in establishing at least two specialty departments and one center for promoting suitable TCM techniques countywide. We have achieved full coverage of TCM facilities in community health service centers and township health centers. Overall, we have built a high-quality, efficient TCM service system. To illustrate, in 2023, there were 93,000 TCM medical institutions nationwide, providing 1.54 billion patient consultations, representing a 29.2% increase in the number of institutions and a 67.4% increase in consultations compared to 2020.

The integrated development of TCM education, technology and talent cultivation has yielded new results. In education, we have deepened collaboration between hospitals and educational institutions by establishing a joint TCM graduate school and developing 321 high-level TCM departments for academic research. These efforts have driven reform and high-quality development in education and teaching. In terms of sci-tech innovation, we have focused on better clarifying and demonstrating the curative effects of TCM. This effort has resulted in the establishment of new platforms, systems and mechanisms for sci-tech innovation. We undertook the special task of TCM modernization under the national key research and development program, built seven national key laboratories and two national clinical research centers for TCM, and mapped out 46 national TCM inheritance and innovation centers. Notably, the International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Registry, operated by the China Center for Evidence Based Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been recognized as a WHO Primary Registry and has released numerous TCM treatments for key diseases, appropriate TCM technologies, and uniquely effective TCM medicines. In terms of talent development, we implemented a project to cultivate TCM specialists, building a tiered, high-caliber talent pool consisting of leaders, outstanding figures, and key professionals. In the TCM community, this project is warmly referred to as the "Qihuang Project" (named after the two founders of TCM, Qibo and Huangdi). Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan period, five TCM experts have been inducted into the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering. We also selected and honored the fourth cohort of 30 TCM Masters, along with 101 nationally famous TCM practitioners. As of the end of last year, the number of TCM practitioners nationwide (including assistant physicians) had reached 868,000.

The recognition and influence of TCM have continued to increase. The show "China Traditional Chinese Medicine Conference" garnered national attention after its debut on CCTV. Meanwhile, TCM cultural night markets have become immensely popular, and TCM health practices have gained a significant following among young people. TCM is increasingly becoming ingrained in the cultural mindset as a means of promoting public health. TCM has taken a more proactive role in serving China's major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. Thirty high-quality TCM overseas centers have been built. TCM has been included in the list of outcomes from the China-Central Asia Summit and the results of mutual visits by the top leaders of China and Vietnam. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Forum on Traditional Medicine continues to be held annually. The Chinese medical team providing TCM aid to Cambodia has become a bond connecting the people of both countries. TCM continues to play a greater role in building a global community of health for all.

Next, we will focus on enhancing the mechanisms for preserving and innovatively developing TCM. We will further deepen comprehensive reforms in TCM to better serve the development of a healthy China and contribute to economic and social progress. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

In recent years, there's been growing recognition of early detection's crucial role in preventing and controlling infectious diseases. Could you highlight some new features and initiatives in China's current infectious disease monitoring and early warning system? Thank you.

Wang Hesheng:

Thank you for your question. Strengthening monitoring and early warning systems to ensure that risks are identified as soon as they emerge is the first step to effectively prevent and defuse the risk of epidemics. General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasized that enhancing early monitoring and warning capabilities is an urgent priority in improving the public health system. The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration is committed to top-level design, a problem-oriented approach and clear priorities. We have made establishing and improving the infectious disease monitoring and early warning system our primary task.

In recent years, with support from the Ministry of Finance, NHC, Customs and other departments, we've established 10 infectious disease monitoring systems. These include sentinel hospitals, virus mutation tracking and urban sewage analysis, which have successfully supported early warning and prediction of infectious disease outbreaks. Responding to concurrent epidemics of respiratory infections like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and mycoplasma pneumonia, we've implemented comprehensive monitoring of 15 common respiratory pathogens. This allows for "multi-disease monitoring and multi-testing from a single sample," enabling timely tracking of epidemic trends and pathogen composition. This approach has significantly bolstered clinical treatment and epidemic prevention efforts. Furthermore, we're accelerating the development of an information platform for infectious disease monitoring, early warning and emergency command. Building on pilot projects in Tianjin, Hubei and Anhui, we're deploying intelligent monitoring and early warning software to all secondary and higher-level medical institutions nationwide. This initiative aims to enhance effective information sharing between medical institutions and disease prevention and control institutions.

Recently, with the approval of the State Council, the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration, NHC and seven other departments jointly issued the "Guidance on Establishing and Improving an Intelligent Multi-Point Triggering System for Infectious Disease Monitoring and Early Warning." This guidance outlines plans to build a multi-point triggering, rapid-responding, and efficient infectious disease monitoring and early warning system by 2030. The goal is to achieve internationally advanced capabilities in early detection, scientific assessment and timely warning of epidemics. Moving forward, we will focus on implementing this guidance, emphasizing three key aspects: diversification of data sources, intelligent systems and standardized procedures. These efforts aim to enhance our capacity for infectious disease monitoring and early warning.

First, we will focus on multi-channel monitoring to enhance early detection and identification capabilities. While optimizing the direct online reporting system for infectious diseases, we'll primarily strengthen three active monitoring and early warning networks: sentinel hospitals, monitoring sites and network laboratories. We'll develop multi-source channels, including interdepartmental coordination, social perception and global epidemic monitoring. This approach will interconnect and cross-validate data from human, animal and environmental domains, enabling multi-point triggering and early warning.

Second, we will focus on leveraging new technologies to enhance intelligent systems. We'll employ big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and other information technologies to build multi-dimensional monitoring and early warning indicators, databases and model repositories. This will enable automatic triggering, capture and early warning of abnormal signals. We aim to create a unified "dashboard" for monitoring and early warning, improving our capacity for data-driven decision-making.

Third, we will focus on standardized management to improve the timeliness of assessment and early warning. We'll enhance systems for infectious disease monitoring, risk assessment, early warning management and information disclosure. This will refine mechanisms for interdepartmental information sharing and consultation, enhance collaboration between hospitals and disease control institutions, and ensure a smooth transition from normal to emergency states. We'll promptly issue health risk alerts, warning bulletins and early warning recommendations in accordance with the law. By strengthening coordination between epidemic prevention, control and emergency response, we aim to effectively prevent and mitigate epidemic risks. Thank you.

Farmers' Daily:

In recent years, the NHC has prioritized the development of closely integrated medical and health consortia at the county level. This approach aims to integrate and connect various medical and health institutions across multiple levels within counties. What tangible benefits does this bring to residents? How exactly are these medical and health institutions being integrated and connected? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

Thank you for your questions. I will answer them. The comprehensive advancement of closely integrated county-level medical consortia is a decision and arrangement by the CPC Central Committee and State Council. We have also carried out pilot programs in this area for several years. The purpose of promoting tightly knit county-level medical consortia is to build connections between medical and health institutions at different levels, ensuring the free flow of information and personnel. Additionally, we aim to create an organically integrated management structure. This allows resources and management expertise from higher-level health institutions to support and promote the development of medical and health institutions at the grassroots level. Ultimately, our goal is to enable people to conveniently access higher-quality medical and health services in their local communities.

In 2019, we launched a pilot program for building closely integrated medical and health consortia, accumulating several years of experience. After careful analysis and assessment, we decided to promote this initiative, which benefits people's livelihoods, into a unified national action. Consequently, at the end of last year, 10 departments, including the NHC, jointly issued a document to comprehensively advance the construction of these consortia. The work has also been highly valued by local governments and has been advanced at a fast pace. I'm pleased to report that by the end of August this year, the number of closely integrated medical and health consortia reached 2,171. This progress aligns with our expectations, and we anticipate achieving our projected target ahead of schedule, providing more convenience to the public. We've also prioritized the application of information technology in promoting these consortia. During our investigations and research, we found many areas have adopted a system where examinations are conducted at the grassroots level, and diagnoses are made at higher-level facilities, with results mutually recognized. This approach improves and better guarantees diagnosis at the grassroots level. We will continue to advance this popular initiative.

Here, I want to share with you that 90.9% of counties have achieved full coverage in dispatching medical personnel from county-level hospitals to township-level health centers. This means nearly 91% of counties have sent staff from county-level units to townships for extended stays. According to our requirements, medical personnel dispatched to township-level health centers should stay for at least six months and rotate regularly. This ensures township-level health centers have sufficient capable professionals to serve the public. Additionally, methods such as touring medical services and telemedicine, which I mentioned earlier, are widely used at the county level and are popular among residents. Our monitoring shows that the "examination at the grassroots level, diagnosis at a higher level" approach is now applied in two-thirds of township-level health centers. After several years of exploration, we've developed an effective path and implementation measures in this field. According to our work plan, by the end of next year, more than 90% of counties will establish medical and health consortia at the county level, with improved integration. This means better coordination between higher-level and lower-level institutions, more integrated information systems, and more frequent personnel exchanges, continuously improving service capacity and quality at the grassroots level.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:  

The complementary and coordinated development of TCM and Western medicine is a notable advantage in China's health care system. What achievements have been made in promoting their coordinated development to better serve public health? Thank you.

Yu Yanhong:

Thank you for this excellent question. Both TCM and Western medicine have their unique strengths. When facing challenging diseases affecting public health, both serve as powerful tools for treatment and prevention. The integration of TCM and Western medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic has deepened our understanding of their combined potential. The NHC and the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine consistently emphasize the importance of both approaches. We focus on continuously highlighting and amplifying the significant advantage of the complementary and coordinated development of TCM and Western medicine in advancing the Healthy China Initiative.. We've implemented a project to promote their coordination, launching a series of initiatives in areas such as mechanism development, model innovation, and talent support. These combined efforts have yielded significant results.

On the one hand, we've continuously strengthened the coordination system and mechanisms between TCM and Western medicine. As part of institutional reforms, the NATCM established a dedicated department for integrating TCM, Western medicine and ethnic minority medicine, coordinating these efforts at the national level. Together with the NHC, we have made special arrangements for TCM in general hospitals, launching actions to enhance the collaborative development of Chinese and Western medicine in these facilities. This initiative encourages general hospitals, specialized hospitals, and maternal and child health institutions to develop an integration model characterized by established mechanisms, dedicated teams, effective measures and tangible outcomes. Currently, many general hospitals have established mechanisms for the coordinated development of traditional Chinese and Western medicine and multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment systems. Focusing on key diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, infectious diseases, and pediatric diseases, Chinese and Western medical practitioners conduct joint rounds and consultations, collaboratively formulating diagnosis and treatment plans. This approach has significantly improved clinical efficacy.

On the other hand, the collaborative service capabilities of TCM and Western medicine continue to improve. More than 90% of public general hospitals at Grade II and above have established TCM clinical departments. For the first time nationwide, 62 "flagship" hospitals and 559 "flagship" departments for TCM and Western medicine collaboration have been selected, creating model examples of this integration. Many well-known hospitals, such as Peking Union Medical College Hospital, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, and Peking University First Hospital, are leading and promoting this work. Focusing on major and difficult diseases that seriously affect people's health, such as severe pancreatitis, chronic stable coronary heart disease, and cancer, efforts have been made to tackle these issues through collaboration between TCM and Western medicine. The combined treatment of TCM and Western medicine has significantly improved clinical efficacy. To date, we have promoted the release of the first batch of 52 clinical diagnosis and treatment plans integrating TCM and Western medicine, and over 150 new clinical cooperation projects focusing on major and difficult diseases have been selected. We are actively exploring new ideas, methods, and models that integrate TCM and Western medicine for disease prevention and treatment. This allows us to offer the public more effective treatment plans that combine the advantages of both approaches.

At the same time, we're strengthening the role of professionals trained in both TCM and Western medicine. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, we're piloting a nine-year integrated TCM and Western medicine education program and introducing mandatory TCM courses in undergraduate clinical medicine curricula. We're actively promoting TCM education for Western medicine practitioners. At the national level, we've launched high-level training initiatives, including the New Era Advanced Talent Program for Western medicine practitioners learning TCM. At the provincial level, we are also conducting specialized TCM training programs for Western medicine practitioners. To date, over 220,000 individuals have participated in these programs, significantly expanding our pool of integrated medicine talent. A notable example is Tu Youyou, the 2015 Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine, who was an outstanding representative of China's first class of Western-trained doctors studying TCM.

CCTV:

Deepening the reform of public hospitals with a focus on public welfare is a top priority among the various tasks of health care reform. How should we interpret the concept of public welfare in this context? How can we ensure public welfare while also motivating medical staff? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

Thank you for your question. I'll address this. Public medical institutions form the backbone of China's health care system. They handle over 80% of the country's annual outpatient and emergency visits. Their role is even more prominent in inpatient services. As a result, the public trusts and prefers these institutions for medical treatment. Therefore, ensuring and enhancing the public welfare aspect of these institutions is a matter of concern for the whole society and a key task of medical reform. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has provided clear directives on safeguarding and improving the public welfare role of these institutions. We can understand and implement these directives from four perspectives.

First, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasized adhering to a public welfare orientation. As the primary providers of health care services, public medical institutions must always prioritize public welfare. This focus on public welfare should be prominent in hospital management, development strategies, macro-level planning, and government investment.

Second, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee explicitly called for establishing a dynamic adjustment mechanism for public hospital staffing. This involves adjusting the size of public medical institutions and ensuring adequate staffing based on changes in local population demographics, public health care needs, and available financial resources. We will formulate corresponding dynamic adjustment standards. Local governments should implement these standards to adjust public hospital staffing accordingly. This approach aims to ensure that qualified, capable, and ethically sound medical professionals receive job security, allowing them to focus on providing health care services to the public with peace of mind.

Third, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee clearly proposed establishing a fee mechanism led by medical services. Reforming medical service pricing is a crucial part of public hospital reform. Currently, the main tasks of price reform include incorporating clinically proven and professionally recognized services and technologies into the scope of price management and medical insurance coverage. This should be done in a timely manner and in accordance with changes in medical insurance fund contributions, cost savings from centralized procurement of drugs and medical consumables, and new trends in medical technology. Additionally, necessary adjustments should be made to medical service prices that have long been undervalued, within the limits of what medical insurance funds and the public can afford. At the same time, the reform aims to establish and improve a diversified payment system within medical insurance that supports technological development while controlling unreasonable cost increases.

The fourth aspect involves improving the remuneration system in public hospitals, which is also a reform task designated at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. A reform to the remuneration system can be briefly summarized in two sentences. The first sentence is to implement the "two allowances" policy. The second is to adequately adjust "three structures." "Two allowances" refers to the policy that relevant departments, when verifying the performance-based wages of personnel in public medical institutions, should approve the total amount and make dynamic adjustments to synchronize the performance-based wages of medical staff with economic and social development as well as changes in price levels, reflecting the labor value of doctors and encouraging high rewards for excellent work as well as more pay for more work. To adequately adjust "three structures" refers to the following: first, public medical institutions should regard serving the public interest as their ultimate objective, gradually narrowing the gap in performance-based wages between public medical institutions of different levels. Second, adhering to the requirement of serving the public interest, they should gradually narrow the gap in pay packages among different specialties and departments within medical institutions, so as to improve the income of medical professionals in relatively weak specialties such as pediatrics, pathology, mental health, anesthesia, general practice and obstetrics. Last, in accordance with the requirement of serving the public interest, the proportion of fixed income in the performance-based wages of medical staff should be gradually increased, while the proportion of flexible income bonuses should be appropriately regulated, so as to better align with the positioning of serving the public interest as well as to encourage medical and health professionals to improve skills and provide better services, rather than simply linking personal income with revenue-generating capabilities.

Finally, I would like to emphasize that to ensure that public hospitals better serve the public interest it is also necessary to strengthen comprehensive supervision and strictly control the unreasonable growth of medical expenses, so as to ensure that the people have payment capabilities and that medical insurance funds are more stable, secure and sustainable. The NHC has established systems such as hospital inspections, prescription evaluations, and syndrome differentiation and treatment with traditional Chinese medicine. In addition, we must strengthen the application of information technology to monitor and analyze whether the diagnosis and treatment services comply with relevant standards and norms, guiding medical services to be more quality-oriented, efficient and resource- and cost-saving.

The above measures are the working ideas and initial considerations formed in accordance with the decisions and deployments of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will further explore, improve and promote these measures with our future work, so as to ensure that public hospitals better serve the public interest, motivate and maintain the dedication of personnel as well as advance a virtuous cycle and interaction with economic and social development. Thank you.

China Youth Daily:

Chronic diseases have become one of the major issues affecting national health, and their management is a long-term and complex process. Could you please elaborate on the key work that the NHC has carried out in terms of comprehensive prevention and control of chronic diseases? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

I'll invite Mr. Yu Xuejun to answer this question.

Yu Xuejun:

Thank you for your question and your concern about chronic diseases. Chronic diseases, abbreviated as non-communicable diseases, are in contrast to infectious diseases. First and foremost, I would like to stress that both chronic and infectious diseases are of great importance and pose long-term public health challenges for us. Therefore, while focusing on infectious disease prevention and control, we must also attach importance to the prevention and control of chronic diseases without any letup. As our country's population ages and lifestyles change, the incidence of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and cancers are generally on the rise. Chronic diseases account for over 80% of total deaths. Due to their high incidence, long duration, low effective control rate and heavy economic burden, they have become major issues that threaten people's health and impact economic and social development, necessitating the need for comprehensive prevention and control measures.

The NHC gives priority to prevention, strengthens the integration of medical care and prevention, and promotes the establishment of a comprehensive health management service system for chronic diseases that covers the entire population, the whole lifecycle and the whole process. We have included the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases as well as diabetes in the overall plan of the Healthy China Initiative as major special projects. Together with more than 10 departments, we have issued implementation plans to promote the implementation of the Medium- to Long-Term Plan on the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases (2017-2025), as well as have established a comprehensive prevention and control system for chronic diseases that encompasses multiple diseases under joint prevention and management. Over 97% of counties and districts have launched healthy lifestyle initiatives centered on "reducing salt, oil and sugar intake, promoting oral health, maintaining a healthy weight and ensuring strong bones." As of 2023, a total of 485 national comprehensive prevention and control demonstration zones for chronic diseases have been established nationwide, covering 17% of counties and districts. At the same time, we are focusing on early screening and intervention for major chronic diseases, gradually establishing a comprehensive management service model that covers prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases have been initiated at earlier stages. Currently, the premature death rate from major chronic diseases in our country has decreased from 18.5% in 2015 to 15% in 2023.

That's all I have to say, thank you.

Red Star News:

At the end of last year, the General Office of the State Council issued guidelines to promote the high-quality development of disease prevention and control. What progress has been made in the past six months? Going forward, what plans and considerations does the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration (NDCPA) have for promoting high-quality development of disease prevention and control? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

I'll invite Mr. Wang Hesheng to answer this question.

Wang Hesheng:

Thank you for the question. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council attach great importance to disease prevention and control, and have made major strategic plans to reform and improve the disease control system. The NDCPA has resolutely implemented these plans and, together with relevant departments, has guided and promoted the implementation of the guidelines in various regions, achieving positive outcomes, particularly in the three aspects of system reshaping, mechanism innovation and capacity enhancement.

First, initial success has been achieved in system reshaping. Disease control and prevention bureaus have been established at all levels, and national and provincial centers for disease control and prevention have incorporated the Academy of Preventive Medicine. Two national key laboratories and nine key laboratories of the commission have been restructured and established, and 15 national regional public health centers have been designed and constructed, basically forming a fully functional disease control system with effective coordination at different levels. The strength of the professional team has also been significantly boosted. By the end of 2023, the number of professionals in disease control and supervision nationwide reached 305,000, an increase of 14% from 2019. The proportion of personnel with bachelor's degrees or above in the disease control professional team reached 61.7%, an increase of 15.6 percentage points from 2019. The proportion of senior professional and technical positions at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) increased to 55%, with the proportion at the 24 provincial centers reaching more than 40%.

Second, working mechanisms have been constantly improved through innovation. We have optimized the joint epidemic prevention and control mechanism, applied the joint mechanism previously used during the COVID-19 pandemic to the prevention and control of emerging and major infectious diseases, and continuously adjusted and improved the organizational structure and operational mode of the mechanism. Recently, we signed a cooperation agreement with the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions on the public health emergency response mechanism for infectious diseases. We have also developed new mechanisms for enhancing coordination between disease prevention and control agencies and hospitals, and formulated a list of 33 responsibilities for medical institutions in infectious disease prevention and control, ensuring that they fully shoulder their share of responsibilities in this regard. The pilot program for the disease control supervisor system in medical institutions has been expanded to all provinces. We have carried out a series of pilot schemes that focus on the coordination between disease prevention and control agencies and hospitals, the integration between disease prevention and control agencies and hospitals, as well as the prescription rights of public health physicians. Our efforts aim to guide all localities to take the initiative in advancing further collaboration between disease prevention and control agencies and hospitals so that they form synergy. We have also intensified the mechanism for talent cultivation. We have implemented support programs to nurture high-end public health professionals, selecting a group of leading experts at the national level every year. The chief expert system has been implemented in the China CDC and 15 provincial CDCs, with individuals appointed to lead various public health fields. We have also worked with the Ministry of Education to set up high-level public health schools at 18 universities across the country.

Third, core capacity has been continuously enhanced. This year, we carried out a campaign in the medical and healthcare sector to enhance professional core capabilities. In terms of monitoring and early warning, we have applied a national intelligent monitoring and early warning software for infectious diseases in all secondary and tertiary public medical institutions, in a bid to facilitate information communication between disease prevention and control agencies and hospitals. In terms of epidemiological investigation, more than 4,000 on-site epidemiological investigation professionals have been trained with the funds from the central budget. We organized a national vocational skills competition for on-site epidemiological investigation, attracting more than 30,000 participants. In terms of testing and inspection, we have established an advanced pathogen detection system, which can confirm more than 300 known pathogens within 24 hours and effectively identify emerging pathogens within 60 hours. At present, biosafety level 3 laboratories have been built in 23 provinces, and all the provincial-level and 90% of municipal-level CDCs are able to detect and isolate viruses. In terms of emergency response, the number of national prevention and control teams for sudden and acute infectious diseases is expected to reach 25, and grassroots emergency response groups have been set up in all cities and counties across the country.

For the next step, we will earnestly implement the deployments outlined at the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, assess our work done during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), and prepare to set the goals and tasks for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30). We will continuously optimize strategies and measures for infectious disease prevention and control, and step up efforts to improve the scientific research system for infectious disease prevention and control and public health care, which applies to both regular cases and emergency responses. We will constantly strengthen core capabilities and advance the modernization of disease prevention and control work through high-quality development, in a bid to safeguard public health as well as economic and social development. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

China Daily:

In China, there are not only big cities with abundant medical resources but also remote and mountainous areas. How do you guide and support the flow of medical resources to grassroots and remote areas so as to accelerate the regional balance and homogenization of medical services? Thank you.

Lei Haichao:

Thanks for your question. I will take this one. Shortage and uneven distribution of high-quality medical resources are common problems faced by all countries. The Chinese government has paid high attention to these issues. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have implemented a series of effective measures that are mainly focused on the following three aspects.

First, we have increased the scale and volume of high-quality medical resources. In recent years, we have expanded their volume in terms of national medical centers, regional medical centers, and medical centers. We have set up 13 national medical centers specializing in different fields of medicine, 125 national-level regional medical centers and 114 provincial-level regional medical centers in the country. As these medical centers are put into use, China's medical resources and service capacity have achieved leapfrog development and become more balanced among eastern, central and western regions.

Second, we have reallocated more high-quality medical resources to grassroots areas. We have made a forward-looking layout for national medical resources so as to better support grassroots hospitals and improve their technological services and management through joint efforts. In the past 20 years, pairing-off assistance has been carried out between tertiary hospitals and county-level hospitals, and thousands of doctors have been encouraged to participate in rural health projects. By doing so, high-quality medical resources have been gradually brought to rural residents. We have sent teams of medical personnel to provide assistance to seriously impoverished counties, significantly improving the local medical service capacity. We have also organized nationwide medical-aid tours. On Sept. 11, all 44 hospitals managed by the NHC began this year's medical-aid tours, marking the first full participation of hospitals managed by the commission. In addition, we have required national medical centers and national-level regional medical centers to make medical-aid tours in the future. In recent years, we have also been inclined to establish national key clinical specialties in cities that are not provincial capitals. According to statistics, 40% of newly-built projects with key clinical specialties in the country have been located in non-provincial-capital cities, which also showcases our favorable policies for more balanced medical services.

Third, we have leveraged information technology to support our work. With 5G technology and other advanced information networks, medical services can be delivered across areas. For example, we have beefed up our efforts to establish internet hospitals. At present, 3,340 such hospitals across the country can provide more than 100 million online diagnoses and treatments each year, effectively complementing current medical services. We have also put emphasis on private hospitals, guiding their development in accordance with the requirements proposed by the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We aim to regulate the medical services of private hospitals so that they will become an effective supplement to public hospitals.

Looking forward, we will focus on institutional and mechanism reform and propel more diverse and tiered medical services in line with the decisions and deployments made by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Journalists might have learned a few days ago that China plans to allow the establishment of wholly foreign-owned hospitals in nine cities and regions. By doing so, the business environment in these nine pilot areas will be improved and local residents will have more options for medical treatment. Thanks to these combined measures, the diversified and multiple medical service needs of residents can be well met and satisfied. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

That's all for today's briefing. Thanks to all the speakers and journalists. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Wang Wei, Guo Yiming, Zhou Jing, Liu Sitong, Wang Qian, Xu Kailin, Li Huiru, Yan Xiaoqing, Ma Yujia, Wang Ziteng, Huang Shan, Lin Liyao, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Zhang Ke, commissioner of the National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA)

Ms. Li Tao, deputy commissioner of the NHSA

Mr. Yan Qinghui, deputy commissioner of the NHSA

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 10, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Zhang Ke, commissioner of the National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA), to brief you on relevant developments and answer your questions. Ms. Li Tao and Mr. Yan Qinghui, both deputy commissioners of the NHSA, are also present today.

Now, I'll invite Mr. Zhang to give his introduction.

Zhang Ke:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning. First, I would like to thank you all for your long-standing interest in, understanding and support for the development of the health care sector.

General Secretary Xi Jinping profoundly stated that the fundamental goal of establishing China's basic medical insurance system is to relieve people of worries about diseases and health care services. Since the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has adhered to a people-centered development philosophy. It has attached great importance to ensuring and improving people's livelihoods, continuously strengthened overall leadership and planning of medical security work, and established the world's largest medical security network. The NHSA has resolutely implemented the major decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee. We have vigorously promoted the experience of medical reform in the city of Sanming, strengthened the top-level design of the medical insurance system, and promoted the coordinated development and governance of medical services, medical insurance, and pharmaceuticals. We have expanded medical insurance coverage, raised its protection standards, improved our management and services, so as to continuously enhance people's sense of gain.

We remain committed to institutional development, as well as regulating and improving the medical insurance system. We have established a robust three-tiered basic medical security system encompassing basic medical insurance, major disease insurance, and medical assistance. We've formulated a list of medical insurance benefits, unified the national medical insurance drug catalog, and promoted standardized medical insurance system, policies and coverage nationwide. We've steadily enhanced the capacity for financing basic medical insurance, improved long-term mechanisms for medical insurance coverage, with coverage of basic medical insurance reaching 95% of the population, maintaining a stable scale of fund revenue and expenditure. We have done everything within our capacity to scientifically determine the coverage and standards of medical insurance schemes. The reimbursement rates for hospitalization expenses covered by related policies remain at around 80% for urban employees' medical insurance and 70% for rural and non-working urban residents' medical insurance.

We continue to prioritize people's needs by improving the quality of health care protections. We have consolidated and improved inpatient coverage, ensured outpatient care for chronic and special diseases. Outpatient expenditures are covered by funds under unified management in the basic medical insurance system for urban employees. A mechanism has been established to guarantee outpatient medicines for treating high blood pressure and diabetes for rural and non-working urban residents. We've aligned basic medical insurance schemes for rural residents and non-working urban residents, integrated maternity insurance and basic medical insurance for urban employees, enhanced the general support capacity of unified accounts, and improved the level of benefits and security for insured groups. We have sped up the completion of the medical insurance and medical assistance system against fatal and serious diseases, and establishedlong-term mechanisms to prevent people from falling back into poverty due to illness. To address the aging population, we've steadily advanced pilot programs on long-term care insurance, which cover 49 cities and 180 million people. We have also implemented measures to boost the birth rate. Already, 20 provinces and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps have included assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), in medical insurance coverage.

We remain committed to deepening reforms to enhance public health and welfare. We have institutionalized and regularized bulk government procurement of medicines and medical consumables. We have organized nine rounds of national centralized procurement of medicines and four rounds of national centralized procurement for high-value medical consumables. At the same time, we have guided and promoted centralized procurement at the local government level for drugs not included in national centralized procurement. We have deepened medical service reforms, and established a dynamic adjustment mechanism to better reflect medical workers' contributions. We have innovated catalog access negotiations, resulting in 3,088 medicines now listed. This encompasses commonly used drugs and those for special and rare diseases. We continue to include newly developed and effective drugs that were previously unaffordable in the catalog. We have deepened reform on medical insurance payment models, encouraging medical institutions to optimize their revenue structures and regulate diagnosis and treatment practices.

We're committed to leveraging digital and intelligent technologies to enhance operational management. We have built a unified national medical insurance information platform to achieve the standardized management of medical insurance data. We have carried out regulation of drug prices listed for public reviews, intensified the monitoring and handling of pharmaceutical price risks, and promoted the monitoring and comparison of drug prices in designated pharmacies. As a result, drug prices have become more transparent, making it more convenient for the public to make choices. We have intensified the supervision of medical insurance funds through ongoing unannounced inspections and targeted actions. We've stepped up the application of intelligent monitoring and big data, promoted the use of drug traceability codes, and established and improved whistleblowing reward mechanisms. We publicly exposed representative cases involving legal violations, standardized the use of medical insurance funds, and protected the money that people rely on to pay their medical bills.

We adhere to a service-oriented approach to optimize medical insurance public services. We have improved the management and service system, included eligible village clinics in the medical insurance settlement network, and provided people with convenient access to medical insurance services. We have developed an online medical insurance service network and mobile app, promoted medical insurance codes and mobile payments, and facilitated online and mobile filing. We've strengthened the direct settlement of medical expenses incurred outside of a patient's home province, enabling cross-provincial direct settlement at the county level for general outpatient expenses and five outpatient chronic and special diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. We are gradually expanding the scope of diseases eligible for cross-provincial direct settlement. We have bolstered one-stop government services in relation to medical insurance and optimized the procedures for medical insurance access, transfer and renewal, benefit claims, and settlement of medical expenses. These improvements make it easier for people seeking medical treatment and purchasing medications.

On the new journey in the new era, the NHSA will thoroughly implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will unswervingly implement the important instructions and directives of General Secretary Xi Jinping regarding the health care sector, striving to promote the high-quality development of medical insurance. These efforts aim to contribute to building a great country and achieving national rejuvenation.

That's all for my introduction. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Thank you, Mr. Zhang. The floor is now open for questions. Please raise your hand if you have a question. Please identify the media outlet you represent before raising your question.

Economic Daily:

We know that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improving the social security system. The public is keenly interested in the development of the medical security system. We have noticed that the NHSA recently proposed to improve the "1+3+N" multi-level medical security system. Could you brief us on the relevant work arrangements? Thank you.

Zhang Ke:

I will answer the question. Health care coverage is a crucial aspect of social security for the people, and they have high expectations for its continuous improvement and development. Our basic medical security system primarily covers three aspects. First is urban employee medical insurance and resident medical insurance that we are all very familiar with, which is included in basic medical insurance. Second, we have medical assistance for people in challenging circumstances. In 2023, we provided assistance to 80.2 million people facing difficulties. People are concerned about how those who have severe diseases but are extremely poor or have no income can apply for medical insurance. You can rest assured that our country cares much about their insurance coverage, providing either full or partial subsidies to help them enroll in medical insurance. Third, we have major disease insurance, a less familiar term. Many friends have asked me whether they should purchase major disease insurance and where to purchase it? Actually, people covered by resident medical insurance do not need to buy major disease insurance, which is included in the basic medical insurance framework. By enrolling in medical insurance for rural and non-working urban residents, one automatically gains access to major disease insurance. The reason people sometimes don't notice it is because we now have a one-stop settlement system. Once the personal expenditure exceeds a certain amount during medical treatment, especially hospitalization, the major disease insurance will be triggered to save more out-of-pocket costs. If we examine hospital discharge settlement slips, we will find the specific amount covered by major disease insurance. These are the three layers of protection within our basic medical security system.

However, the three layers of protection still fall short of meeting the people's growing health care needs, manifesting in three key aspects. First, due to funding constraints, many expensive drugs are difficult to cover under basic medical insurance. This limitation conflicts with the unlimited nature of people's needs. Second, the basic medical insurance system is relatively uniform. This uniformity is in conflict with the varying levels of economic and social development across the country, as well as differences in disease patterns across different regions. Third, the rules and catalog of basic insurance are quite fixed and are not able to be adjusted frequently. It's difficult to include every new drug or technology as soon as it's developed. This also conflicts with fast development and changes in pharmaceuticals, medical devices and technologies. 

How to solve these contradictions? According to the deployment of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we have been tasked with building a multi-level medical security system, which in recent years has been clearly required by the CPC Central Committee. In addition to basic medical insurance, what else does this multi-level system include? Primarily, it includes the following aspects: Huiminbao, an insurance with government support; other commercial health insurances, charities, mutual aid through trade unions as well as other funds. The participation of these forces not only meets people's diverse and changing health care security needs but also complements the basic medical insurance system. This composes the relationship of "3" and "N," which means three-tiered protection of basic medical security system and various supplementary sources. 

The "1" in the system refers to the NHSA's promotion of digital and intelligent technologies to provide a basic information platform, ensuring the effective operation of a multi-level medical security system. The platform features the following aspects: "one person, one file," meaning that everyone has a personal health record; "one drug, one code," meaning that every medicine box will have a tracking code, enabling future traceability of each medicine box to ensure that the public has access to safe drugs. It also contains "one claim, one settlement" and "one invoice, one verification." Commercial insurance companies and philanthropic institutions are concerned about whether they can find right recipients and get authentic invoices. The NHSA through big data tech services can provide these necessary conditions for participating organizations in this multi-level medical scheme. On the basis of digitalization, we can cooperate and strive to effectively meet people's increasing needs for health care security. 

That's all for my response to the question about building a multi-level medical security system based on "1" and coordinated by "3+N."

Farmers' Daily:

At the beginning of this year, the NHSA released major tasks concerning the one-stop government services in medical insurance. Can you tell us about the current progress made with these tasks? Thank you. 

Zhang Ke:

Let us invite Mr. Yan to answer the question. 

Yan Qinghui:

Thank you for your question. Since this year, the NHSA has implemented guiding principles from the State Council's relevant documents and has emphasized the integration of one-stop government services principle in all aspects of health care security work, effectively handling every matter to provide heartwarming services for enterprises and residents. Currently, the time for handling major tasks has been shortened with streamlined procedures and flexible forms. The insured population, pharmaceutical companies and medical institutions are all experiencing an enhanced sense of fulfillment from medical insurance services.

On the one hand, insured residents are experiencing improved services. Newborns can now be enrolled in medical insurance immediately upon birth, rather than waiting for household registration. Previously, newborns' households had to be registered before newborns could be enrolled in medical insurance, and medical expenses had to be paid out-of-pocket and then reimbursed at medical insurance windows later. Now, through data sharing, local medical departments can enroll newborns in the medical insurance system with just a birth certificate. The average time needed for enrollment and payment has been reduced to 6.4 working days from 28.7 working days at the beginning of the year. Medical expenses can now be directly reimbursed upon newborns' discharge from the hospital. Individual medical insurance accounts for urban employees have changed from individual ownership to family sharing. Through an online application, employees can add their parents, children, spouses and other close relatives to their accounts for shared use of their personal account funds. Currently, local governments are advancing work in this regard. From January to July of this year, the amount of individual medical insurance accounts shared among family members reached 22.7 billion yuan. It is projected that by the end of this year, individual accounts will be able to be shared among family members within the provincial-level administrative area where insurance is registered, and efforts will be made next year to promote cross-provincial practice. Particularly, on-the-spot settlement of cross-provincial medical expenses of outpatient services now covers 10 kinds of chronic and special diseases from the previous five. Taking varying diseases across different regions into consideration and to better meet people's needs for convenient cross-region medical services, we have included five diseases, namely chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, viral hepatitis, coronary heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, on top of the previous five kinds of diseases. By the end of this year, every district and county across China is planned to have at least one medical institution capable of cross-provincial on-the-spot settlement of medical expenses for these new types of diseases. In addition, we have shortened the average claim period for employee maternity benefits to be within 10 working days.

Second, we have taken more solid measures in medical security to facilitate the development of the pharmaceutical industry. In order to effectively address the concerns of pharmaceutical companies on some time-consuming procedures, such as coding medicines and publishing online notifications of centrally procured drugs, we have canceled the public notification procedure during the medicine coding process, while accepting complaints and appeals on a regular basis, so as to reduce the turnaround time for coding medicines covered by medical insurance from one month to one week. We have guided localities to unify the tendering and procurement information systems as well as product information standards, formulating a standardized service directory. We have also streamlined the operational procedures for centrally procured medical products to go through online public notification, reducing the turnaround time for such applications to fewer than 15 working days. In order to relieve the financial burden on medical institutions, we have taken timely settlement of eligible medical expenses as a prerequisite while streamlining the whole process. As a result, more than 90% of regions under unified management nationwide have realized monthly settlement of medical bills. We have also continued to implement the pre-payment mechanism. Medical insurance funds are prepaid to designated medical institutions at the beginning of each year to facilitate their development, with appropriate preference given to institutions that ensure better implementation of medical insurance policies.

That is all from me. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed supporting coordinated development and management of medical services, medical insurance and pharmaceuticals, as well as further reform of medical insurance payment models. We noticed that the NHSA recently released a new version of the DRG/DIP classification plan. What measures will the administration take to implement these requirements and further enhance its capabilities for pursuing high-quality development? Thank you.

Zhang Ke:

Thank you. I would like to invite Ms. Li to answer this question.

Li Tao:

Thank you for your question. The NHSA has resolutely implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and continued to reform medical insurance payment models. In recent years, in terms of hospitalization expenses, we have accelerated the promotion of the DRG/DIP payment methods, which are diversified, compound medical insurance payment models featuring predominantly bundled payments based on disease types and diagnosis-related groups. By the end of 2023, the program had already covered all regions under unified management nationwide, generally bringing changes in four aspects. First, the medical insurance payment model has been switched from treatment-based to ones that are based on disease types and diagnosis-related groups. Second, medical insurance settlement has been switched from post-paid to pre-paid. Third, audit approach has been switched from manual audit to one that is based on the application of big data. Fourth, the provision of medical services has been switched from extensive management to precise management. We have fully implemented management mechanisms such as global budget, evaluation and oversight, as well as allowing medical institutions to keep the surplus of allocated funds and share the overspend. By doing so, we have standardized hospitals' diagnosis and treatment, ensured rational drug use, improved efficiency, and controlled costs, thereby alleviating the overall burden of medical treatment for insured patients, reducing time spent, as well as supporting coordinated development and management of medical services, medical insurance and pharmaceuticals.

Meanwhile, the reform of medical insurance payment models is a phased process in which progress is continuously being made. Recently, we have focused on problems reflected by both medical institutions and the public concerning imprecise classification plans and limited length of hospitalization. We released version 2.0 of the classification plan to further improve the technical standards and supporting policies for medical insurance payments based on disease types and diagnosis-related groups, with priorities on establishing new mechanisms concerning separate discussion for special cases, pre-payment, opinion soliciting and feedback, consultation and negotiation, as well as data working groups. Take separate discussion for special cases as an example. For special cases that involve extended hospitalization, high medical expenses and frequent use of new medicines, medical consumables and technologies, as well as complex, severe and critical symptoms, we have ensured that medical institutions can decide for themselves whether to apply for separate discussions. The medical insurance departments will then review those cases, and consult with medical institutions to adjust the charging standards, so as to better satisfy the demands of clinic treatment and medicine use, as well as relieve the burden of high medical expenses on patients.

Next, the NHSA will be more conscious of pressing concerns of the people, and continue to reform medical insurance payment models. First, we will establish a dynamic adjustment mechanism of DRG/DIP payment, which pays hospitalization expenses based on disease types and diagnosis-related groups. By doing so, we will better satisfy patients and clinical needs, as well as improve payment efficiency of medical insurance funds in a more scientific and precise manner. Second, we will improve the diversified, compound payment system, and explore payment models in line with the characteristics of medical services such as outpatient care and close-knit medical communities. Third, we will strengthen coordination and interplay with the National Health Commission and other relevant departments, as well as support coordinated governance of medical services, medical insurance and pharmaceuticals, so as to effectively protect the people's right to health. Thank you.

China Review News:

Recently, the NHSA has exposed many cases involving medical insurance fraud. How will health care security departments tighten oversight of medical insurance funds and protect the medical insurance coffers? Thank you.

Yan Qinghui:

Thank you for your question. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has attached great importance to the supervision of medical insurance funds, and issued a series of decisions and plans. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee also proposed tightening oversight of medical insurance funds. Since the start of this year, the NHSA has focused its efforts in three areas:

First, we have carried out strict inspections and severe crackdowns. We have stepped up efforts in conducting checks, including regular annual checks that are publicly announced, as well as special checks that start without prior notice or announcement, forgo any form of work report, escort or official hospitality, and go directly to the site at the community level. So far, we have inspected 432 designated medical institutions in 30 provinces. By the end of this year, the number is expected to exceed the total of the previous five years, greatly expanding inspection coverage. Localities have intensified efforts in cracking down on medical insurance fraud. A number of institutions suspected of wrongdoing were forced to terminate contracts and were transferred to the public security department. Compared with previous years, we have paid more attention this year to the role of big data technology. So far, we have identified and recovered nearly 60 million yuan of medical insurance funds through big-data screening involving "glycated hemoglobin." Another nearly 14 million yuan has been recovered through big data screening involving "diagnosis, treatments, examinations and drug use restricted to one gender." Through these efforts, we have realized a targeted crackdown based on the integration of on-site inspections and big data technology.

Second, we stay committed to maintaining a balance between leniency and strictness. We've effectively utilized self-examination and self-correction. Before the NHSA's unannounced inspections began, we organized designated medical institutions nationwide to conduct self-examinations and corrections based on a checklist of issues. This has encouraged medical institutions to more consciously regulate their services. To date, designated medical institutions at various levels have returned approximately 3 billion yuan in medical insurance funds. We've also effectively used guidance interviews, meeting with non-compliant pharmacies to urge rectification, and publicly reported these issues so that designated pharmacies could better regulate their practices. Additionally, we've leveraged public exposure. The NHSA's official WeChat account has exposed fraudulent practices by some medical institutions, including illegal and irregular activities such as excessive glycated hemoglobin testing and confusion of gender-specific examinations. This approach has strengthened the deterrent effect.

Third, we stay committed to addressing both symptoms and root causes. We're exploring a management system for medical insurance payment qualifications, using a points deduction system similar to that for driving licenses to hold responsible parties accountable. This aims to warn and educate medical personnel to consciously follow treatment norms and self-regulate their prescribing practices. We're improving the social supervision mechanism for medical insurance funds to better engage all sectors in fund supervision. Guidelines for this are currently open for public comment. We've also improved the whistleblower reward mechanism. Since 2022, a total of 2,422 rewards have been issued nationwide, totaling 3.68 million yuan, including rewards of over 100,000 yuan for three individuals and rewards of 50,000 to 100,000 yuan for eight individuals. We hope the media present here can help promote and guide society-wide participation in this reporting and reward system.

Moving forward, we will earnestly implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and resolutely shoulder the political responsibility of safeguarding the security of medical insurance funds. We will never allow the public's money for medical treatment or life-saving care to become easy targets for exploitation. Thank you.

The Poster News APP:

Sanming city's medical reform program has emerged as an important model for national medical reform, providing valuable insights for further improvements. Could you please outline the main approaches and results of implementing Sanming's medical reform model in the medical insurance sector? Thank you.

Zhang Ke: 

Thank you for your question. I'll answer it. The NHSA has consistently implemented the CPC Central Committee and the State Council's decisions and plans on promoting Sanming's medical reform experience. We've vigorously advanced its institutional achievements, incorporating its pioneering, innovative and locally adaptive spirit into all aspects of medical insurance work. First, I'd like to report that the NHSA's establishment itself reflects the implementation of Sanming's reform experience. Previously, we didn't have an independent medical insurance bureau. It was due to Sanming's successful model that the CPC Central Committee decided to establish dedicated health care security administrations at all levels nationwide. We are now stepping up efforts to advance the following reforms.

First, we're conducting centralized bulk procurement for drugs and medical supplies in a solid way. Drawing on Sanming's approach to cutting off improper interests in the pharmaceutical supply chain, the NHSA has actively promoted reforms in drug bidding and procurement systems. We've established a routine, standardized process for centralized bulk procurement. Nationally, we've organized nine batches of drug procurement and four batches of high-value medical supplies procurement. Provinces are also conducting centralized procurement either independently or in alliances. This has significantly reduced prices of commonly used drugs and medical supplies, creating favorable conditions for supply-side reform in medical services.

Second, we're gradually improving the medical service pricing mechanism. Driven by centralized procurement, we've achieved a more profound and higher-quality structural reform of medical services. The savings from centralized procurement are first used to deliver reform benefits to the public. They also create space for new drugs and diagnostic procedures that reflect new quality productive forces to enter clinical application, and create conditions for adjusting medical service prices. Since 2021, we've guided provinces to dynamically adjust medical service prices, conducted pilot reforms, and explored new pricing mechanisms that align with economic and social development, better reflect the government's role, ensure full participation of medical institutions, and reasonably represent the value of technical services. Since the reform, prices for technical procedures like surgeries and traditional Chinese medicine have increased in an orderly manner, while prices for exams and tests like CT scans have decreased reasonably. The pace of price adjustments matches economic and social development.

Third, we're continuously promoting efficient payment mechanisms. We've implemented a three-year action plan for payment reform, fostering a multi-component payment system primarily based on diagnosis-related groups (DRG). By the end of 2023, over 90% of coordinated areas nationwide had adopted DRG/DIP payment reforms. Results from the 2022 national performance evaluations of tertiary public hospitals showed a 0.7 percentage point increase in the proportion of revenue from medical services compared to the previous year.

To further implement General Secretary Xi Jinping's important instructions on Sanming's medical reform model and to further promote these experiences in the national medical insurance sector, the NHSA issued a notice in May of this year to further promote Sanming's medical reform experience and continuously advance innovation in medical insurance work. It requires local authorities to deeply understand the essence of Sanming's reforms and calls for exploring original and differentiated reform measures suited to local conditions and deepening the establishment of a multi-tiered medical security system. Following the document's release, local authorities have actively implemented these requirements. Some provinces have further detailed their own implementation plans based on the national document. For example, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has specifically developed task lists, measure lists, and responsibility lists for promoting Sanming's medical reform experience and advancing innovation in medical insurance work.

Next, the NHSA will guide the health care security departments at all levels to resolutely apply the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping, take actions in line with local conditions, deepen the health care insurance reform, continuously enhance policies, management and services, foster greater synergy between the medical insurance system, medical treatment and medications, and deepen their reform and development while continuously improving health care insurance management services, so as to give our people a growing sense of fulfillment, happiness and security. Thank you.

CCTV: 

As we know, China's unified national health care insurance platform has been built and put into use. How do the health care insurance departments use this platform to provide people with more convenient and efficient services? Thank you.

Zhang Ke:

I'd like to invite Ms. Li to answer this question.

Li Tao:

Thank you for your question. Health care insurance settlement has become more convenient thanks to the use of this platform, which has seen daily volume exceeding 28 million settlements and the average response time of the hospitalization expenses settlement system being only 0.8 second, effectively reducing the time people spend waiting in line at hospitals. The application of medical insurance code has also become more popular. A total of 1.17 billion people in China have activated the code, ushering in a "code era" for medical insurance services. People can use their cellphones or other electronic devices to activate medical insurance codes for medical services as well as reimbursement of medical costs without carrying physical cards.

The unified national health care insurance platform has made services even more optimized. We have continued to improve the NHSA's website and app and set up family accounts, providing the public with convenient health care insurance services online or in short distances. At present, the real-name users of the NHSA's website and app have exceeded 400 million, with the number of users of family accounts exceeding 158 million, greatly improving the efficiency of health care insurance transactions. We have started to provide inter-provincial health care insurance services, enabling people to register online for receiving medical services outside of home jurisdiction, sometimes even in different provinces, and realizing on-the-spot settlements of related medical bills. Other medical insurance services such as information changes, inquiries, and account transfers and continuations are also available across provinces.

The unified national health care insurance platform has provided stronger guarantees. The platform can unify and sort different policies in various regions and each coordination area, and meet the needs of medical insurance settlement and reimbursement in each coordination area. It can carry out intelligent approval of funds, using big data monitoring and analysis to conduct fund approval and reimbursement, and timely identify abnormal situations, so as to accurately crack down on fraudulent practices and insurance swindle. It can also promote the standardized coding of medicines and medical consumables, realize "bidding, procurement and settlement with one code," and enable mutual recognition, circulation and sharing of health care insurance data nationwide, so that information on national medical insurance settlements and prices of medicines and medical consumables can be interconnected and more transparent.

The unified national health care insurance platform has also brought our services closer to the public. We promoted the digitalization of the entire process of medical insurance handling services, saved people's legwork through data sharing, made more medical insurance related administrative services available online, built 15-minute health care insurance service circles, and enabled the public to enjoy high frequency services, such as health care insurance information inquiries and registration for receiving medical services outside of home jurisdiction, nearby in their towns (sub-districts), villages and communities. Thank you. 

Cover News:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improving the mechanism to support the development of innovative drugs and medical devices. How is the NHSA promoting the clinical application of new technologies, equipment and consumables? Thank you.

Yan Qinghui:

Thank you for your question. The NHSA has always supported the innovation of medical technology and promoted the high-quality development of health care services by improving its pricing policies. The NHSA has organized experts to speed up the compilation of national standards for medical service price items. In accordance with the principle of successively releasing in batches once each is mature, it has currently issued nine batches of approval guidelines for obstetrics, nursing and other areas, and standardized the medical service price items of related disciplines, highlighting a medical service-oriented approach. 

In view of the feedback from medical institutions and related enterprises hoping to speed up the price approvals of new technology, equipment and consumables, the NHSA has guided all provinces to further smooth channels for increasing medical service price items. Green channels have been opened and approvals have been accelerated for major innovation projects that optimize diagnostic and treatment plans for major diseases or fill gaps in the treatment of them. For improvement-oriented innovation projects, we refined the existing price items and met the reasonable charging demands in a balanced manner. Concerning other new price items, we accelerated the approval procedures, and fully met the reasonable charging needs of new technologies, equipment and consumables at different innovation levels. Since 2022, more than 1,000 new price items have been added each year in each province, and a number of high-quality innovative technologies, equipment and consumables have been put into clinical application, allowing innovative medical technologies to better benefit the people.

Next, the NHSA will earnestly implement the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, accelerate the compilation of national standards for medical service price items, continue to guide all provincial health care insurance departments to enhance the management of new items based on clinical value and innovation quality, speed up the handling of applications for adding items if they involve major innovative technologies such as medical equipment that gain priority review and approval by the National Medical Products Administration, as well as promote the development of new quality productive forces in the medical field. At the same time, we will also strengthen the quality control of innovation to prevent low-quality and fake innovation from disrupting the market environment or squeezing the medical insurance funds. We also hope that relevant enterprises will effectively improve their innovation quality, ensure proper disclosure of information on the prices of high-value medical consumables involved in new price items, and accept public supervision and peer review. Thank you.

The Paper:

In recent years, China's medical insurance system has expanded coverage to include more drugs for chronic and rare diseases. Notably, the inclusion of some extremely expensive drugs has significantly reduced the financial burden on patients. This process has also led to widely publicized negotiations for lower drug prices. Could you talk about the current state of the national medical insurance drug catalog? What are the plans for future developments in this area? Thank you.

Zhang Ke:

Thank you for your questions. Ms. Li will answer this question.

Li Tao:

Thank you for your question. The medical insurance drug catalog defines the range of medications eligible for reimbursement through medical insurance funds. It primarily includes Western medicines, Chinese patent medicines and prepared ready-for-use traditional Chinese medicines. Since its establishment, the NHSA has adhered to the principle of doing everything within our means and has continuously advanced reforms and improved management of the medical insurance drug catalog.

First, we've maintained dynamic adjustments, updating the catalog annually and promptly adding eligible new and improved drugs. This has significantly enhanced both the quantity and quality of medicines in the catalog. Over the past six years, we added 744 new medicines to the catalog. The number of Western medicines and Chinese patent medicines has increased from 2,535 in 2017 to 3,088 today. Simultaneously, the quality of medicines in the catalog has markedly improved. Many drugs based on new therapeutic mechanisms and new targeted drugs have been included, particularly in areas such as treatment of cancer, rare diseases and chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. This has achieved a closer match between the drugs covered by the national medical insurance system and clinical demand. 

We have also leveraged the advantages of group purchasing through the medical insurance system to guide new drug prices toward reasonable levels. By implementing strategic purchases based on the integrated drug needs of more than 1.3 billion insured individuals, we've improved the mechanism for medical insurance access negotiations. As a result, many previously expensive drugs have become more affordable, significantly reducing the medical burden on the public. In the six years since the establishment of the NHSA, negotiated drug prices have benefited 720 million insured patients. Factoring in price reductions from negotiations and reimbursements from the national medical insurance system, the financial burden on the public has been eased by over 700 billion yuan.

At the same time, we have also strengthened incentives and guidance to drive innovative development in the pharmaceutical industry. While maintaining a focus on basic needs, we have developed preferential policies for innovative drugs that cover the entire process from enterprise declaration to review, calculation and negotiation. In recent years, many innovative drugs have been included in the catalog the same year they received approval. This rapid inclusion in the medical insurance system, coupled with swift market launches and clinical applications, has enabled enterprises to obtain reasonable returns on innovation. This has created a virtuous cycle of reinvestment and further research and development. The medical insurance system has played an important role in driving the development of new quality productive forces in the pharmaceutical sector.

Moving forward, we will further improve the mechanism for adjusting the national medical insurance drug catalog. While adhering to the principle of meeting people's basic needs, we'll strive to include more, better and newer medicines in the catalog. At the same time, we will also focus on studying and refining the multi-tiered medical security system with Chinese characteristics. This includes broadening payment channels for innovative drugs, aiming to continually meet people's expectations for a better life.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

You may continue to raise your hands for questions. We have time for two more reporters.

Chengdu.cn:

In recent years, centralized procurement of medicines and medical equipment has gradually gained recognition and acceptance. What achievements have been made in this area? Looking ahead, what adjustments are planned for centralized procurement to both lower medical costs for people and promote development in the biomedical industry? Thank you.

Yan Qinghui:

Thank you for your questions. The achievements of centralized procurement can be understood from three aspects.

First, it has lowered medical costs for people and improved the accessibility and quality of medicines. For example, the annual cost of antiviral medicines for hepatitis B, such as Entecavir and Tenofovir, was as high as 4,000 to 5,000 yuan before centralized procurement. After centralized procurement, the annual cost dropped to about 100 to 200 yuan. Clinical studies by medical institutions have shown that the rate of antiviral treatment and standard treatment for hepatitis B patients have increased significantly. Another example is insulin. Since the implementation of centralized procurement, its price has been greatly reduced. Consequently, the use of third-generation insulin, which has better clinical performance, has increased from 58% before centralized procurement to over 70% now.

Second, it has advanced the healthy and high-quality development of the pharmaceutical industry. Centralized procurement has reshaped the ecology of China's pharmaceutical industry and changed its development approach. Before centralized procurement, pharmaceutical enterprises focused on sales channel competition, paying less attention to quality and research and development. Centralized procurement provides a platform for fair and transparent competition, allowing good products to quickly enter the market. Public inquiries into price regulation of thoracic aortic stents and other medical consumables show that price cuts for some pharmaceutical products mainly came from compressing circulation costs, with minimal impact on the actual revenue of production and R&D enterprises. Meanwhile, the expenses saved can be redirected toward innovation, encouraging more enterprises to shift their focus to quality improvement, large-scale production and innovation.

Third, it has contributed to ensuring that public hospitals and medical institutions truly serve the public interest. Centralized procurement has eliminated hidden kickbacks in the distribution of medicines and consumables, leading to more standardized prescribing practices among medical staff. For example, the antibacterial use density (AUD), a key indicator measuring antibiotic consumption in areas prone to drug abuse, has declined from 37.8 in 2018 to 33.8 in 2022. Supporting policies for centralized procurement also focus on increasing legitimate and transparent income for medical institutions and staff. The policies require that medical insurance funds saved through centralized procurement are partially retained by medical institutions after assessment, with a considerable portion funding staff salary reforms. Some regions have also launched pilot projects for pharmaceutical service fees, recognizing the value of technical services provided by physicians and pharmacists. These measures have created conditions for high-quality development in medical institutions, enabling them to truly serve the public interest.

Next, the health care security authorities will vigorously expand the scope and improve the quality of centralized medicine procurement. We will continue to broaden the scope of centralized procurement, including launching new batches of national-organized drug and high-value medical consumables procurement. High-value medical consumables such as cochlear implants will be included in the procurement program. We will strengthen regional coordination, with a focus on guiding localities to advance centralized procurement for traditional Chinese medicines, TCM decoction pieces, and in vitro diagnostic reagents through alliances. We will proceed smoothly with follow-up procurement, enhance the refined management of procurement execution, and collaborate with relevant departments to reinforce management measures for the use, supply and monitoring of selected products. We will ensure that the selected products are promptly delivered to hospitals and prioritized for use. Additionally, we will take measures to hold selected enterprises accountable for ensuring product quality and supply. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

Tide News:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee outlined the need to improve the fertility support policy system and incentive mechanisms, and to promote the development of a fertility-friendly society. Could you please share some of the successful experiences and practices of the health care security system in building a fertility-friendly society? And what new policies can we expect in the future? Thank you.

Zhang Ke:

Thank you for your questions. The population issue is crucial for the sustainable development of the Chinese nation. The NHSA is committed to implementing the strategic decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We are focusing on effectively managing basic medical insurance and maternity insurance, actively exploring ways to improve policies and measures for maternity insurance, and aligning these efforts with relevant economic and social policies to jointly build a supportive policy system for childbearing.

On the one hand, we continue to leverage the protection function of maternity insurance. While maternity insurance is a separate insurance program, it is now implemented in conjunction with basic medical insurance for employees. This helps reduce the burden of maternity medical expenses for insured female employees, balance the labor costs of employers, and promote fair employment opportunities for women. Maternity insurance covers both employers and employees, ensuring coverage for maternity medical expenses and maternity allowance during the mandated maternity leave period. In recent years, the protective function of maternity insurance has continued to be fully utilized. In 2023, 249 million people were covered by maternity insurance nationwide, with the expenditure of the maternity insurance fund reaching 117.7 billion yuan. The average maternity allowance for insured female employees was 26,000 yuan. To clarify, the maternity allowance is essentially the wage during maternity leave. We often hear discussions about whether maternity leave wages should be paid by the husband's employer or the wife's employer. In fact, neither is correct, because maternity leave wages are paid by medical insurance, specifically maternity insurance. Currently, there are two methods for distributing maternity leave wages, or maternity allowances. One method is to pay it directly to the female employee, and the other is to pay it to the employee's company, which then distributes it to the employee. Recently, we have also consulted with the All-China Women's Federation (ACWF) to gather their input. Going forward, we will explore ways to distribute maternity allowances (maternity leave wages) more directly to female employees. Of course, we acknowledge that some regions have local regulations that require allowances to be paid to the company first, which then pays the employee. We will encourage relevant regions to conduct careful research on this matter.

On the other hand, in response to the national population strategy and requirements, we are implementing multiple measures to improve and enforce proactive fertility support policies. This primarily involves expanding and consolidating maternity insurance coverage. We support certain regions in exploring flexible approaches, allowing self-employed individuals to participate in maternity insurance alongside employee medical insurance. We have already guided provinces such as Jiangxi, Zhejiang and Guizhou as well as Tianjin to carry out these explorations across their regions, and the results have been very positive. At the same time, we are standardizing and regulating the pricing of assisted reproductive medical services and promoting the inclusion of assisted reproductive technology projects in medical insurance coverage. We are guiding provinces to consider factors such as the capacity of medical insurance funds and the regulations on assisted reproductive technologies, gradually including suitable assisted reproductive technology projects in the scope of medical insurance fund payments through proper procedures. This aims to help resolve the issues faced by families who wish to have children but are unable or unwilling to do so. Currently, 20 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities, including Beijing, Guangxi, Inner Mongolia and Gansu, as well as the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, have included assisted reproductive medical services in medical insurance reimbursement. By the end of this year, more provinces are expected to include these services in medical insurance reimbursement. Recognizing that childbirth can be a significant physical and emotional experience, we have expanded our offerings to include pain management options, doula delivery and family companionship during labor. These services aim to meet the diverse needs of mothers and improve the childbirth experience. Additionally, we continue to enhance the administrative services for maternity insurance, requiring localities to implement the standards for minimum application materials, simplest procedures, shortest processing time and highest service quality. We have streamlined the process and clarified that enjoying maternity insurance benefits no longer requires providing unnecessary additional documents such as a birth permit, maternity service certificate or marriage certificate, to facilitate access to benefits for the insured.

Building on Mr. Yan's introduction, new mothers often have a significant concern right after childbirth. Some babies may need to be placed in an incubator or undergo surgery immediately after birth, while the mother has not yet left her hospital bed. How can we ensure that the newborns receive timely and effective treatment? We have implemented a seamless newborn enrollment process, which allows parents to use a cellphone from the bedside to enroll the baby in insurance and obtain reimbursement immediately. This ensures better coverage and protection for the baby's medical expenses and treatment. These measures create more favorable conditions and more convenient services for proactive fertility policies.

Next, we will continue to guide various regions in effectively managing maternity insurance and basic medical insurance. We will continue to improve and refine the maternity insurance system, enhance its protective functions, expand its coverage and steadily increase the level of coverage for insured individuals' maternity medical expenses. At the same time, we will strengthen coordination between departments, promote the establishment of a policy system for fertility support, and work together to foster long-term balanced population development. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, today's press conference is hereby concluded. Thank you to the three speakers and friends from the media. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Yan Bin, Huang Shan, Liu Jianing, Li Xiao, Wang Qian, Mi Xingang, Wang Wei, Zhang Tingting, Liu Sitong, Xu Kailin, Wang Yanfang, Liu Caiyi, Li Huiru, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Wang Zhenjiang, vice minister of justice

Mr. Yang Xiangbin, director general of the Bureau of Public Legal Services Administration of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ)

Mr. Kong Xiangquan, deputy director general of the Administrative Law Enforcement Coordination and Supervision Bureau of the MOJ  

Mr. Jiang Shan, deputy director general of the Second Bureau of Legislation of the MOJ

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 6, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we are very pleased to have invited Mr. Wang Zhenjiang, vice minister of justice, to brief you on relevant developments and answer your questions. Also present today are Mr. Yang Xiangbin, director general of the Bureau of Public Legal Services Administration of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ); Mr. Kong Xiangquan, deputy director general of the Administrative Law Enforcement Coordination and Supervision Bureau of the MOJ; and Mr. Jiang Shan, deputy director general of the Second Bureau of Legislation of the MOJ.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Wang for his introduction.

Wang Zhenjiang:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media, good morning. I am very pleased to attend today's press conference with my three colleagues and introduce the judicial administration work in promoting high-quality development.

First, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for your long-term interest in, and support and assistance for the work of judicial administration.

High-quality development is the primary task of building a modern socialist country as well as our top priority in the new era. Guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, the MOJ has thoroughly implemented the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, practiced Xi Jinping Thought on the Rule of Law, and focused on promoting high-quality development. We have fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts and earnestly implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, in a bid to create a vibrant yet stable and orderly legal environment for high-quality development. Next, I will introduce five key aspects:

First, based on the new stage of development, we are striving to promote high-quality development through high-quality legislation. Since last year, focusing on promoting high-quality development, the MOJ has prioritized key areas and urgent needs, and formulated and revised administrative regulations such as the Regulations on Fair Competition Review and the Provisions of the State Council on the Declaration Standards for Concentration of Business Operators, in a bid to create a favorable environment for various business entities to fairly participate in market competition. We reviewed and amended draft laws such as the Accounting Law, the Statistics Law, the Value-Added Tax Law, and the Tariff Law, promoting the improvement of the macroeconomic governance system. We issued the Provisional Regulations on the Flight Management of Unmanned Civilian Aircraft and the Regulations on the Replenishment of Supplies for International Cruises at Ports of the People's Republic of China, promoting the development of emerging industries. We formulated and revised administrative regulations, such as the Ecological Protection Compensation Regulations, the Interim Regulations on the Management of Carbon Emission Trading, and the Regulations on Administration of Ozone Depleting Substances, improving the system and mechanisms that embody the concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets."

These are some of the legislative items. In general, in 2023, the MOJ completed the review of 51 legislative initiatives, representing a 96.2% increase year on year. So far this year, we have reviewed 39 various legislative initiatives. Going forward, we will fully perform our duties in reviewing government legislation, continuously strengthen legislation in key areas, emerging fields and foreign-related fields, and provide stronger legal support for the development of the Party and the nation.

Second, we are cleaning up regulations and practices that hinder the construction of a unified national market and fair competition, striving to build a unified national market. According to the State Council's arrangements, the MOJ has completed a focused cleanup of all the 600-plus currently effective administrative regulations, and organized the amendment and repeal of some administrative regulations. This effort focuses on eliminating regulations and items that do not meet the requirements of high-quality development, are not conducive to optimizing the business environment and building a unified national market, or violate fair competition. At the same time, following the arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we are leading a comprehensive cleanup of laws, regulations and policies that involve unequal treatment of enterprises, with the aim of eliminating hidden barriers and reducing institutional transaction costs for enterprises.

Third, we are striving to better leverage the guiding, regulating and safeguarding roles of the rule of law, with the aim of advancing the development of a law-based and world-class business environment. As you know, the rule of law provides the best business environment. The MOJ has always prioritized building a law-based and world-class business environment as a crucial task. Last year, we reported to the State Council for the launch of a three-year action plan to improve the quality of administrative law enforcement, aiming to address issues such as inaction, misconduct, rough law enforcement and non-standard law enforcement practices, with a particular focus on strengthening the supervision of administrative law enforcement involving enterprises and standardizing administrative inspections of enterprises. Additionally, we reported to the State Council for the cancellation or adjustment of 33 penalty items across nine areas. We drafted and submitted the Guidelines on Further Regulating and Overseeing the Setting and Enforcement of Fines to the State Council for issuance and implementation, aiming to solve prominent problems such as arbitrary fines that have drawn significant complaints from enterprises and the public.

Fourth, the MOJ has focused on providing high-quality legal services tailored to the needs and expectations of business entities. We have launched initiatives aimed at businesses to enhance legal knowledge, promote the rule of law and the spirit of contract, and strive to foster a business environment featuring integrity and fidelity. We also continue to streamline notarization procedures to offer greater convenience to the public. A list of 81 standard certifications across 33 categories have been published, while 116 unnecessary certifications and documents have been removed, which effectively avoids repeated and redundant paperwork for certification. In addition, we have been strengthening the efforts to resolve disputes in emerging fields such as finance, intellectual property and the internet. We support and encourage industrial associations and chambers in these sectors to established their own public dispute settlement organizations, the number of which currently exceeds 3,600. These dispute settlement efforts are playing an increasingly important role in advancing high-quality development and maintaining social harmony and stability.

Fifth, the MOJ has advanced the rule of law in foreign-related affairs, contributing to and ensuring high-quality opening-up. We have expedited the development of a sound system of laws and regulations in foreign-related affairs. We have also collaborated with related government bodies when it comes to research, drafting, review and revision of key laws and regulations, such as the Law on Foreign Relations and the Law on Foreign State Immunity. Furthermore, rapid progress has been made in improving legal services related to foreign affairs. We support the establishment of international commercial arbitration centers in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong and Hainan. We also encourage the strengthening of foreign-related legal services including support for lawyers, notarization services and commercial dispute settlements. To date, Chinese law firms have established a total of 207 branches in 37 countries and regions around the world, with over 12,000 foreign-related lawyers in service. An integrated certification system combining foreign-related notarization and consular legalization have been promoted, which has effectively enabled Chinese citizens and businesses to "go global."

On the new journey ahead, justice and administrative bodies at all levels will acquire a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We must be more conscious of the need to maintain political integrity, think in big-picture terms, follow the leadership core and keep in alignment with the central Party leadership. We must stay confident in the path, theory, system and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics. We must uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. We will take a realistic and pragmatic approach, shoulder our appointed responsibilities and make greater contributions to the endeavor of building a great country, moving toward national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. 

This concludes my introduction. Next, my colleagues and I will take your questions. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Wang. The floor is now open for questions. Please raise your hand and state the news outlet you represent before asking your questions.

CCTV:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has made comprehensive arrangements in areas such as building a high-standard socialist market economy, promoting high-quality economic development and improving macroeconomic governance. What specific laws will be introduced in these areas? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

Mr. Jiang will take this question.

Jiang Shan:

Thank you for your question. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has made comprehensive arrangements in building a high-standard market economy, promoting high-quality economic development and improving macroeconomic governance. Moving forward, the MOJ will strengthen legislation in key sectors across the following fields.

In terms of building a unified national market and improving the business environment, the MOJ is working with related government bodies to expedite the revision of the Anti-Unfair Competition Law  in a bid to create a sound institutional environment for all business operators to compete fairly within the market. We are also improving laws and regulations concerning the clearance of overdue payments owed to enterprises as well as revising regulations on ensuring payments to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

In terms of fending off and defusing risks in the financial sector and promoting the sound and stable development of the capital market, the MOJ will accelerate efforts to revise laws and regulations in the financial sector, such as the law on the regulation of and supervision over the banking industry, in order to further improve the financial regulatory system. We will also enact provisions by the State Council to regulate intermediaries' services for companies' public offerings, so as to help improve the quality of listed companies and protect investors' lawful rights and interests. In addition, related government bodies are moving faster to study and work on the drafting of the financial law, in which the MOJ is also participating. 

In terms of deepening the reform for the energy management system and enhancing the resilience and security of industrial and supply chains, the MJO is promoting the independent operation of natural monopoly businesses in sectors such as energy and advance market-oriented reforms in competitive areas of these sectors. We are also refining the overall planning and linkage systems for the exploration, production, supply, storage and sales of strategic mineral resources. We have collaborated with related government bodies and have formulated a draft for the Energy Law and a revision draft for the Mineral Resources Law. Currently, both of these documents have been submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) for deliberation, and the MOJ will work with related NPC bodies to advance the legislation process.

In terms of building new institutions for a higher standard within the open economy and creating policies to support efforts to develop China into a strong trading nation, the MOJ is working with related government bodies to study and revise the Foreign Trade Law and the Customs Law. By doing so, we aim to proactively align with international high-standard economic and trade rules, take the initiative to enhance the country's openness to the world as well as actively respond to digital and eco-friendly trends within trade. We are also innovating mechanisms for supervision and fostering an institutional environment which is conducive to the growth of new business forms and models. Thank you.

Cnr.cn: 

Could you elaborate on the new requirements outlined in the resolution that was adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee regarding law-based governance on all fronts? What measures will the MOJ take next to fulfill these new requirements? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

I'll answer this question. Thank you for your inquiry. The MOJ's leading Party members group considers studying and implementing the guiding principles of the plenary session to be a major political task at present and for some time to come. The group immediately held meetings for Party leaders as well as for all members of the Party, organized group study sessions for senior officials, communicated and studied the guiding principles of General Secretary Xi Jinping's important remarks and the plenary session, and took concrete steps to implement various legal reform tasks.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made a series of major theoretical innovations in law-based governance on all fronts, deployed significant reform measures, further enriched and developed Xi Jinping Thought on the Rule of Law, and expanded the scope of building a socialist country under the rule of law. This is mainly reflected in the following aspects: 

First, it was stated that "the rule of law provides an important guarantee for Chinese modernization," and "we must deepen reform and advance Chinese modernization under the rule of law." This profoundly illustrates the important status and role of the rule of law in Chinese modernization.

Second, "refining the system of socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics" and "moving to a higher stage in building a socialist country under the rule of law" have been incorporated into the overall objectives of further deepening reform comprehensively. This ensures coordination between the general goal of comprehensively promoting law-based governance and the strategic plans for deepening reform comprehensively. 

Third, staying committed to law-based governance on all fronts has been established as one of the six guiding principles for further deepening reform comprehensively. This highlights the unity of reform and the rule of law, ensuring that all major reforms have a solid legal basis. It further demonstrates a clear direction of deepening reforms per the rule of law.

Fourth, each section of the resolution addresses the advancement of the rule of law, integrating it into institutional reforms across all areas. It further refines and solidifies the decisions and plans of the 20th CPC National Congress to see that all the state's work is carried out under the rule of law. 

Fifth, it includes a dedicated section on promoting socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics, proposing major reform measures in five areas. This aims to remove institutional barriers that restrict and affect comprehensive law-based governance.

For the MOJ, the reform tasks in the field of the rule of law outlined by the plenary session are both important assignments and significant missions. We will focus on promoting high-quality development, more consciously planning for and advancing judicial administration in the broader context of Chinese modernization and ensuring implementation with unwavering determination. In particular, we will do an excellent job in performing the duties of the Office of the Commission for Overall Law-Based Governance of the CPC Central Committee, which is set up within the MOJ. We'll coordinate reforms across legislation, law enforcement, administration of justice, observance of the law and rule of law in foreign-related affairs. This will achieve systematic integration and efficient coordination of reforms in the field of the rule of law.

That's all I have to say. Thank you.

Cover News:

Administrative reconsideration is an important means of resolving administrative disputes and ensuring equal legal protection for citizens, legal persons, and other entities. Could you please outline how the MOJ has promoted administrative reconsideration to support high-quality development? Thank you. 

Wang Zhenjiang:

Let's invite Mr. Kong to answer your question. 

Kong Xiangquan:

Thanks for your question. Administrative reconsideration is a supervisory system for government self-correction and a remedy for resolving administrative disputes. It's an important channel for safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the public and businesses. The MOJ has been diligently implementing the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We've diligently performed our duties as the State Council administrative reconsideration agency, comprehensively strengthened administrative reconsideration efforts, and fully utilized administrative reconsideration as the primary means for resolving administrative disputes. These efforts act as a shield for high-quality development. 

First, we've made tangible achievements in substantively resolving administrative disputes. We've promoted revisions to the Law on Administrative Reconsideration, further expanding the scope of administrative reconsideration and bringing more administrative disputes into this process. In the first half of this year, judicial administrative organs at all levels received 292,000 new administrative reconsideration cases and concluded 225,000 cases. The number of new cases increased by 150% year on year, a substantial increase. Following administrative review, 202,000 cases didn't proceed to administrative proceedings. The settlement rate of administrative reconsideration cases reached 89.4%, an increase of 12.6 percentage points compared to 2023. 

Second, we've overseen and promoted strict, standardized, impartial, and civilized law enforcement. We have guided judicial administrative organs at all levels to actively implement the oversight mechanism stipulated in the newly revised Law on Administrative Reconsideration. We've also earnestly strengthened error correction in individual administrative reconsideration cases and the standardization of similar cases. In the first half of this year, 24,000 illegal or improper administrative actions were corrected, with an error correction rate of 13.7%. This effectively addressed several problems, such as administrative inaction, procedural violations and arbitrary fines. In response to common problems in administrative law enforcement, we issued 2,734 administrative reconsideration opinions and suggestions. Additionally, we conducted ancillary reviews of 357 administrative normative documents. 

Third, we've worked to optimize the law-based business environment. Judicial administrative organs at all levels have actively strengthened administrative reconsideration work involving business entities. They handled 2,328 new types of administrative reconsideration cases related to enterprises, including administrative agreements, compensation and competition restrictions. In the first half of this year, we received 31,000 new administrative reconsideration cases filed by various types of business entities and concluded 23,000 of them. This saved 10.17 billion yuan in economic losses for involved businesses, effectively safeguarding their legitimate rights and interests. The MOJ, together with the National Development and Reform Commission and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, launched a nationwide special campaign to support high-quality business development through administrative reconsideration. We proposed 18 specific measures across five areas to comprehensively improve the quality and efficiency of administrative reconsideration work involving businesses. Thank you. 

People's Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improvements to the public legal services system that covers both urban and rural populations. How does the MOJ plan to advance this initiative? Thank you. 

Yang Xiangbin:

Thank you for your question and for everyone's interest in public legal services. Actually, public legal services are closely related to our daily lives and work. For example, many of the journalists here today have had experiences such as hiring a lawyer or obtaining notarization. In this sense, public legal services are actually a fundamental, service-oriented and supportive aspect of exercising law-based governance on all fronts, playing a vital role in ensuring and improving people's livelihoods. The initiative to build a system for public legal services that covers both urban and rural populations was first proposed during the fourth plenary session of the 18th CPC Central Committee. After ten years of planning, developing and improving, China has basically established a convenient, efficient and inclusive system for public legal services that is equitably accessible to both urban and rural populations. So far, there are 754,000 legal service agencies of various kinds nationwide, with 3.997 million legal professionals. A total of 590,000 physical platforms have been built to provide public legal services, with over 600,000 villages and communities now equipped with legal advisors. Additionally, the public legal service hotline and the Legal Services of China website have been fully launched and are operating smoothly. Our legal service workers handle over 40 million various cases annually. Public legal services have played a crucial role in supporting economic and social development, safeguarding fairness and justice, and promoting social harmony and stability.

As mentioned earlier, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasized the need to improve the system for public legal services that covers both urban and rural populations. In line with this instruction, we will focus on several aspects. First, we will strengthen coordination and planning, especially by formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for the public legal service system. This plan will coordinate and arrange various tasks to refine the system during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. Second, we will promote balanced development between urban and rural areas and different regions. Given China's vast landscape and the imbalance between the eastern and western regions, concrete and effective measures will be taken to address the uneven distribution of resources for public legal services. This primarily includes establishing and improving a mechanism for lawful cross-regional flow of resources for legal services as well as deepening paired assistance between legal professions in the eastern, central and western regions. Additionally, we will work to initiate a program that provides legal aid to the western region while continuing ongoing efforts such as the "Lawyer Service Team to support legal services in Xizang," "Legal Services for the Elderly" and "Legal Services by Your Side for People with Disabilities. " These initiatives aim to continuously make public legal services more balanced and accessible. Third, we will encourage and guide the participation of nongovernmental actors, recognizing that the provision of pro bono legal services is a shared responsibility across all sectors of society. To this end, we will establish and improve mechanisms for volunteers to provide legal services and foster a number of professional public-interest legal service organizations, thereby diversifying service providers. Fourth, we will improve legal service quality and credibility. This primarily involves refining the supervisory and management system for public legal services, creating a coordinated regulatory framework that integrates administrative regulation, self-discipline of legal industry and associations, autonomy of legal institutions as well as public supervision to achieve joint management and participation. Our overarching goal is to better meet people's needs for high-quality public legal services and continuously enhance the public's sense of gain and satisfaction in the legal field. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:

In recent years, issues such as arbitrary, unmannerly law enforcement and excessive punishment for minor infractions have occasionally occurred in some areas, infringing on the legitimate rights and interests of citizens and businesses. What measures has the MOJ taken, and will take, to address these problems? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

Your question is very timely and pertinent. I'll invite Mr. Kong Xiangquan to respond.

Kong Xiangquan:

Thank you for your question. To address the issues you mentioned, the MOJ has implemented a series of practical measures since last year to refine the system of standards on administrative discretion as well as intensify coordination and supervision of administrative law enforcement, improving the administrative law enforcement of all localities and government departments. Looking ahead, we plan to take the following steps:

First, we will launch special campaigns to tackle prominent issues regarding administrative law enforcement. In response to particular public concerns, such as one-size-fits-all law enforcement and rough law enforcement, we will organize related local departments to compile lists of prominent law enforcement issues across different sectors, so as to conduct concentrated rectification and special oversight. Additionally, we will strengthen information sharing between administrative law enforcement oversight and other supervisory channel such as the "12345" government service hotline, fully utilizing the platform to provide supervision, critical feedback and suggestions concerning administrative law enforcement, thus effectively safeguarding people's legitimate rights and interests.

Second, we will further refine the system of standards on administrative discretion. We will urge and guide relevant local authorities to establish and improve this system for matters such as administrative penalties. This will help unify standards in law enforcement and regularize the exercise of discretionary powers, thus effectively resolving acute issues such as inconsistent punishment for similar administrative penalty cases.

Third, we will standardize the setting and imposition of fines. The MOJ urges local authorities and departments to proactively implement the relevant requirements of the State Council. It also guides and supervises relevant departments to reasonably set fines by comprehensively considering factors such as the level of socioeconomic development and industry characteristics. When implementing fines, authorities should holistically consider the subjective culpability and gains of the parties involved. The principle of appropriate fines for faults must be applied to avoid imposing penalties that are disproportionate to the severity of violations. 

Fourth, we will enhance the capabilities and professional qualities of administrative law enforcement personnel. We will fully implement the professional qualification management and certificate system for recruitment. We will improve law enforcement personnel's accession and withdrawal mechanism to eliminate issues such as inaction and misconduct in law enforcement as much as possible. We will fully implement the administrative enforcement responsibility system and improve the regular training mechanism for related personnel. These efforts will constantly enhance their political literacy, professional competence and sense of integrity. Thank you. 

Jinan Times App:

We recognize that lush mountains and lucid waters are invaluable assets. What legislative measures have been taken in recent years to improve the systems for advancing ecological progress and to promote modernization while maintaining harmonious coexistence between humans and nature? Thank you. 

Wang Zhenjiang:

Thank you for the question. Mr. Jiang will provide the answer to this. 

Jiang Shan:

Thank you for the question. In recent years, public expectations for eco-environment quality have grown increasingly high. Moreover, high-quality development relies on the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. Clearly, improving the rule of law in this field is crucial. As Mr. Wang just said, the MOJ has fulfilled its responsibilities by focusing on enhancing the systems and mechanisms that support the philosophy that lush mountains and lucid waters are invaluable assets. We have strengthened legislation to support the coordination of carbon reduction, pollution control, green development and economic growth. Specifically, our efforts have focused on the following aspects: 

First, we have thoroughly implemented the arrangements and requirements set forth at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee regarding the improvement of basic systems for advancing ecological progress. We have collaborated with relevant parties to draft laws on national parks and farmland protection and quality improvement. These efforts aim to facilitate the development of a nature preserve system centered around national parks and to promote the development of high-standard farmland. 

Second, we have focused on establishing and improving the ecological protection compensation mechanism. In collaboration with the National Development and Reform Commission and other relevant departments, we formulated and promulgated regulations on ecological protection compensation. These regulations implement the related decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. By translating effective practices from various localities and departments into comprehensive and fundamental administrative regulations, we have cemented and expanded these practices. Consequently, we have established basic systems and rules for ecological protection compensation. 

Third, we have implemented the requirements for vigorously and properly pursuing peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. In collaboration with the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, we formulated and issued interim regulations on the management of carbon emissions trading. These regulations specify the regulation system for national carbon emissions trading and related activities, thereby creating a basic institutional framework for such trading. 

Fourth, we have implemented requirements for environmental risk management and control. For example, we revised and issued regulations on the management of ozone-depleting substances, further improving related regulatory measures. 

That's all I have to share. Thank you, everyone.

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine: 

Arbitration is the internationally recognized standard approach for resolving commercial disputes. What concrete measures have you taken to improve the international commercial arbitration system and cultivate arbitral institutions? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

Mr. Yang will answer this question.

Yang Xiangbin:

Thank you for the question. As you noted, arbitration is indeed the internationally recognized standard approach for resolving commercial disputes. It plays a crucial role in facilitating investment, trade and economic growth across different countries and regions. The resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee mentioned arbitration multiple times, outlining clear requirements. These included deepening reform of the arbitration system, improving international commercial arbitration and mediation systems, cultivating world-class arbitration institutions, and promoting innovation in maritime arbitration systems and rules. These emphases demonstrate the great importance attached to arbitration and its development by the CPC Central Committee. To implement the arrangements and requirements set forth at the third plenary session, we will focus on promoting arbitration-related reforms and concentrate our efforts on three key aspects:

First, we are quickly improving arbitration-related laws, systems and rules. Currently, we are promoting the revision of the arbitration law. A draft revision has been deliberated and approved at an executive meeting of the State Council. This revision is comprehensive, coming 30 years after the promulgation of the original arbitration law. It primarily focuses on addressing prominent issues in the current arbitration system and related practices, aligning with advanced international rules, and enriching and improving foreign-related arbitration systems. The aim is to improve arbitration laws and systems with Chinese characteristics that are compatible with international norms. This will enhance the international influence of China's arbitration system and better enable it to serve socioeconomic development and expand openness. 

Second, we are concretely improving arbitration credibility. With China's rapid socioeconomic development, the arbitration field has also evolved swiftly. Currently, there are 282 arbitration institutions with more than 80,000 arbitrators and staff members in the country. Over 5 million cases have been handled, involving assets worth more than 8 trillion yuan and parties from more than 100 countries and regions. In 2023 alone, arbitration institutions nationwide handled 607,000 cases, up 27.8% year on year. These cases involved assets worth 1.16 trillion yuan, an increase of 17.7% from the previous year. This development has been rapid, and the results have been fruitful. Moving forward, we will focus on enhancing arbitration credibility, recognizing its vital importance. We will further improve the mechanisms for developing and operating arbitration institutions and fully enhance the supervision and management of arbitration institutions and arbitrators. Our goal is to provide higher-quality and more efficient arbitration services for the public. 

Third, we have taken practical steps to enhance the international competitiveness of the arbitration sector. As Mr. Wang just mentioned, we are now actively advancing the construction of international commercial arbitration centers. In 2023, the eight arbitration institutions in pilot areas handled a total of 79,000 cases involving objects worth 600 billion yuan, accounting for 52% of the national total. The number of foreign-related cases concluded accounted for 72% of the national total and the worth of the objects involved was 69% of the national total. Since its launch in 2022, the construction of international commercial arbitration centers has progressed rapidly and achieved positive results.

Next, we will advance the construction of international commercial arbitration centers. Acting upon the arrangements and requirements of the third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee, we will give priority to cultivating a batch of world-class arbitration organizations, launch projects for this purpose, and build world-class brands of arbitration organizations, so as to give better play to the role of arbitration in serving high-quality development and high-standard opening up. Thank you.

Xinhua News Agency:

To advance high-quality development, we should ensure that state administrative bodies at all levels function in accordance with the law. The MOJ shoulders the responsibility for coordinating the building of a rule of law government. Going forward, what work will be done to advance law-based government administration? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

Thank you for your question, I will answer this one. Building a law-based government is a key task and major part of comprehensively advancing law-based governance. The third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee has made systematic arrangements for deepening law-based government administration. The MOJ has always placed importance on this, and will focus on advancing the work in the following four aspects:

First, we will keep working to establish a sound legal footing for government institutions, functions, powers, procedures and responsibilities. To advance law-based government administration, we must set rules and draw boundaries for administrative powers with the rule of law. We will speed up advancing legislative items such as regulations on the supervision of administrative law enforcement and regulations on the procedures of formulating administrative normative documents, with the aim to further improve government behaviors through the rule of law. At the same time, we will strictly implement the interim regulations on major administrative decision-making procedures and improve the legality review mechanism for major decisions and normative documents, so as to enhance the binding force of legality reviews.

Second, we will strengthen reviews of the legislative work of the government. The third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee has for the first time made a proposal regarding this. As the legal affairs organ of the State Council, the MOJ will further improve the system and mechanism and develop new ways and means for reviews of government legislation, enhancing the quality and efficiency of such reviews across the board to continuously improve those of legislation. In this work, we specifically should adapt to new situations, new requirements and new tasks, take a problem-oriented approach, and work to make the system and measures more targeted, effective and practicable.

Third, we will strengthen administrative law enforcement coordination and supervision. Administrative law enforcement connects government and people, and directly affects people's trust in the Party and government and their confidence in the rule of law. This year, the General Office of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council issued opinions on strengthening the development of working systems for administrative law enforcement coordination and supervision. In accordance with the arrangements of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, the MOJ will basically establish a working system for the supervision of administrative law enforcement covering the provincial, municipal, county and township levels by the end of this year. At the same time, we will improve the supervision system, adopt new oversight methods, strengthen comprehensive coordination, and accelerate steps to achieve all-round, full-process and long-term supervision of administrative law enforcement on a regular basis. 

Fourth, we will improve the institutions and mechanisms for administrative review. We have attached great importance to giving play to the institutional strengths of administrative review as it is impartial, efficient and convenient and works in the interest of the people and giving play to its role as a major channel for resolving administrative disputes. In particular, we strengthened administrative reviews regarding business entities. Last year, administrative review agencies at various levels nationwide accepted 385,000 cases, up 42.7% year on year. Among these, 352,000 cases were concluded. The number of administrative review cases has exceeded that of administrative litigation cases for the first time. The cases handled included 17,000 cases relating to land management, 2,899 cases relating to intellectual property rights, and 2,764 cases relating to ecology and environment. A total of 39,800 administrative review cases filed by business entities were handled in 2023, helping recover economic losses amounting to 10.39 billion yuan, playing a crucial role in supporting high-quality development. Thank you. 

Nanfang Metropolis Daily:

In recent years, the overall quality of administrative normative documents has improved, but there are still problems such as lack of discretion and uneven quality in some places. What measures will be taken to address these problems? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

I would like to invite Mr. Kong to answer this question.

Kong Xiangquan:

Thank you for your question. Formulating administrative normative documents is an important way for local governments to perform their economic and social management function in accordance with the law. The third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee has made specific arrangements for improving the legality review mechanism for normative documents, which is of great significance for strengthening the formulation and management of normative documents, and effectively curbing the random issuance of documents and the introduction of senseless policy documents. Based on our duties, the MOJ will work on the following aspects.

First, we will strengthen the development of regulations and standards. Regulations on the procedures for formulating administrative normative documents have been included in this year's legislative work plan of the State Council. We will take proactive steps to advance the study and drafting of the regulations, and further clarify through legislation the concepts, scope and document-making bodies, procedures and responsibilities related to administrative normative documents, so as to enhance the rule of law in administrative normative documents formulation and management. 

Second, we will enhance review teams' capacity building. We will strengthen operational guidance to various regions and departments, promote training and rotation of personnel responsible for reviewing administrative normative documents, and comprehensively improve the political and professional capabilities of legal review teams. We will organize the selection of exemplary cases in the legal review of administrative normative documents, summarize and promote best practices, and provide guidance for review personnel in their work.

Third, we will establish a data and information platform. We'll promote the establishment of management information platforms for legal reviews of administrative normative documents across regions and departments. Through interconnection and data sharing, we'll enhance statistical analysis, achieve dynamic and refined management of administrative normative documents, and effectively improve review quality and efficiency.

Fourth, we will promote regional integration of the legal review mechanism. We'll summarize the experience of integrating the legal review mechanism for administrative normative documents in the Yangtze River Delta region. We'll increase support for establishing and improving communication and coordination mechanisms for review standards of administrative normative documents in regions such as Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, the Greater Bay Area, and Chengdu-Chongqing. This aims to enhance unity in policy formulation, consistency in rules, and synergy in implementation. Thank you.

Legal Daily:

High-level opening up requires high-level legal services. Could you please elaborate on the measures the MOJ has taken to fully leverage the role of lawyers in foreign-related legal services and the achievements that have been made? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

This falls under public legal services. I would like to invite Mr. Yang to answer your question.

Yang Xiangbin:

Thank you for your question. As you mentioned, high-level opening up cannot be achieved without high-level legal services. Promoting high-quality, high-level legal services has been a key part of our foreign-related rule of law efforts in recent years. The MOJ has actively developed foreign-related legal services, especially those provided by lawyers, who are crucial to our legal service system. We've strived to support high-level opening up through high-quality foreign-related legal services. Our measures have been robust, and the results are quite evident. This is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

First, we're actively cultivating world-class law firms. We are supporting and guiding a group of strong foreign-related law firms to accelerate their entry into the ranks of top international firms. Working with relevant departments, we've improved policy support measures to encourage Chinese lawyers to "go global." Compared to 2018, the number of overseas branches of Chinese law firms has increased by 69.67%. These firms play a positive role in strengthening the legal security chain that protects China's overseas interests.

Second, we're continuously strengthening the cultivation of foreign-related legal talent. The MOJ has organized three advanced training sessions for foreign-related legal talent and 10 training sessions on foreign-related legal services for public and corporate lawyers. We've guided the All-China Lawyers Association in holding foreign-related legal service training sessions for lawyers, training more than 1,400 lawyers in total. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, we've implemented a master's degree program in foreign-related law, with a cumulative enrollment of nearly 1,500 students.

Third, we emphasize the role of Hong Kong and Macao lawyers in foreign-related legal services. The MOJ has led the establishment of a consultation mechanism for legal services in the Greater Bay Area, promoting talent cultivation and exchange among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. We've actively promoted the pilot program for lawyers practicing in the Greater Bay Area, organizing the first qualification examination for lawyers in the region this year after extending the pilot period. So far, the MOJ has successfully held four exams, with over 1,800 Hong Kong and Macao lawyers participating and 482 obtaining Greater Bay Area lawyer practice certificates. The pilot program has brought experienced Hong Kong and Macao lawyers with rich cross-border legal service expertise into mainland legal teams, significantly enhancing the capabilities and levels of foreign-related legal and lawyer services. It has played a positive role in ensuring high-quality development and high-level opening up. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

The last two questions.

The Poster News APP:

Education, science, technology and talent are fundamental and strategic pillars of China's modernization. What has the MOJ done to improve and refine the legal system for education, science, technology and talent development? Thank you.

Wang Zhenjiang:

Mr. Jiang will answer this question.

Jiang Shan:

Thank you for your question. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has set new, higher standards for education, science, technology and talent development. The MOJ is committed to deeply implementing strategies to enhance the nation through science and education, strengthen the country with talent, and drive development through innovation. To improve legal systems for education, science, technology and talent, we've focused on the following tasks:

First, to deepen reform of the science and technology system and enhance the quality of science and technology awards, we've amended the Regulations on National Science and Technology Awards. This further strengthens the centralized and unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee over the work of science and technology awards, better leverages the advantages of the new national system, encourages scientific and technological innovation, and promotes the transformation of scientific and technological achievements. 

Second, we will focus on strengthening IP rights protection, and promoting innovative development, amend the Detailed Rules for the Implementation of the Patent Law of the People's Republic of China, and further improve the patent application and examination systems. We will enhance patent protection and services, and add content such as the Special Provisions on International Applications for Design, and align with international rules such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty and the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Registrations of Industrial Designs. The newly revised detailed rules will help foster patent innovation, protection and application, support all-round innovation, and better meet the needs for innovation-driven development and high-level opening up. 

Third, centering on strengthening academic degree management efforts and refining the high-level talent cultivation mechanism, we will work with relevant departments to draft the academic degree law to further enhance the academic degree management mechanism. The law will detail and clarify the conditions and procedures for conferring degrees, better protect the legitimate rights of degree applicants, ensure degree quality and help cultivate talent committed to national rejuvenation in the new era. 

At present, the MOJ is working with relevant departments to accelerate the revision of laws and administrative regulations such as the Law on Popularization of Science and Technology, and the Regulations on the National Natural Science Fund. Going forward, the ministry will thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, focus on making coordinated efforts to promote integrated reform of institutions and mechanisms pertaining to education, science and technology, and talent, and boosting the overall performance of our country's innovation system. The ministry will actively promote legislation in related fields, providing strong institutional support for building a system that fosters all-round innovation. Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

Last question, please. 

Red Star News:

Currently, China is becoming more closely connected with the rest of the world. The number of our citizens and enterprises "going global" continues to grow. What measures will be taken to strengthen the rule of law in foreign-related affairs and safeguard the legitimate rights of Chinese citizens and companies overseas? Thank you. 

Wang Zhenjiang:

Thank you for your question. This is an excellent and very important issue. As China opens wider to the world, the number of its citizens and enterprises going global continues to rise, and they are encountering various legal issues and security risks. From this perspective, we must enhance abilities to safeguard their security overseas, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of our citizens and legal entities abroad. We will leverage the role of the Office of the Commission for Overall Law-Based Governance of the CPC Central Committee, which has been set up in the MOJ, to coordinate efforts and gradually establish a mechanism integrating legislation, law enforcement, judiciary, legal compliance, legal services and legal talent cultivation in foreign-related affairs. In protecting the legitimate rights and interests of our citizens and companies abroad, we will deliver in the following aspects: 

First, we will improve the system of foreign-related laws and regulations. China currently has over 50 laws that specifically address foreign-related issues and over 150 laws with foreign-related provisions, which have played a crucial role in protecting the legitimate rights and interests of our citizens and enterprises overseas. However, there are still gaps and weaknesses in the legal framework governing foreign-related affairs. Next, the MOJ will work with relevant departments to accelerate the formulation and revision of relevant laws and regulations, and ensure that necessary laws are enacted, amended, repealed and interpreted, so as to provide stronger institutional support for safeguarding the overseas rights of our citizens and businesses.

Second, we will provide high-quality and efficient legal services for citizens and enterprises going global. Since last year, we have advanced efforts to establish the first batch of over 150 demonstration institutions for foreign-related legal services, supported Chinese law firms to set up service outlets in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and selected 295 notary institutions to conduct remote video notarization services in collaboration with overseas embassies and consulates, thereby continuing to increase foreign-related legal service abilities. Next, we will accelerate the fostering of a number of world-class arbitration institutions and law firms, build a comprehensive legal service platform for the BRI, and improve mechanisms for verifying foreign laws, effectively protecting the legitimate rights of our citizens and businesses abroad. 

Third, we will deepen international judicial and law-enforcement cooperation. Currently, China has signed bilateral judicial assistance treaties with 88 countries and treaties on the transfer of sentenced persons with 18 countries, and handled over 300 requests for international criminal judicial assistance and over 3,000 requests for civil and commercial judicial assistance each year on average. Next, we will promote the signing of bilateral judicial assistance treaties and treaties on the transfer of sentenced persons with more countries, and further expand the scope of law-enforcement and judicial cooperation. 

Fourth, we will accelerate fostering high-caliber legal talent. We will work with relevant parties to accelerate the construction of foreign-related legal research bases at the national level, strengthen the training of lawyers in foreign-related issues, cultivate a number of high-level legal talent dealing with practical foreign-related issues, and establish a foreign-related arbitration talent pool, striving to provide legal talent support for our citizens and businesses abroad. Thank you. 

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Wang. Thank you to all the speakers and friends from the media. Today's press conference is hereby concluded. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Zhu Bochen, Yang Xi, Xu Xiaoxuan, Liu Sitong, Xu Kailin, Yang Chuanli, Liu Jianing, Wang Wei, Ma Yujia, Wang Yanfang, Li Huiru, Zhang Junmian, Wang Qian, Huang Shan, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers: 

Mr. Lu Lei, deputy governor of the People's Bank of China (PBC)

Ms. Li Hongyan, deputy administrator of State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE)

Mr. Zou Lan, director general of the Monetary Policy Department of the PBC

Mr. Peng Lifeng, director general of the Credit Market Department of the PBC

Mr. Xiao Sheng, director general of the Capital Account Management Department of SAFE

Chairperson:

Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 5, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Lu Lei, deputy governor of the People's Bank of China (PBC), and Ms. Li Hongyan, deputy administrator of State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE), to brief you on relevant work and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Zou Lan, director general of the Monetary Policy Department of the PBC, Mr. Peng Lifeng, director general of the Credit Market Department of the PBC, and Mr. Xiao Sheng, director general of the Capital Account Management Department of SAFE.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Lu Lei for his introduction.

Lu Lei:

Thank you. Good afternoon, everyone. I'm delighted to be here for this face-to-face exchange. I, alongside my colleagues, will give you a briefing on the financial work being done to promote high-quality development.

First of all, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your long-term interest in and reporting on the reform and development of the financial sector, including the work of the PBC.

The Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core attaches great importance to financial work. The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has made comprehensive arrangements to deepen the reform of the financial system, charting the course and setting the goals for optimizing financial services and promoting high-quality development. The PBC has thoroughly implemented the decisions and deployments of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, adhered to the fundamental principle of providing financial services to the real economy, and comprehensively balanced the relationship between short term and long term, steady growth and risk prevention as well as internal and external factors, effectively promoting the construction of a high-quality development pattern featuring mutual reinforcements for the real economy and the financial system. Since the beginning of this year, we have focused on the following aspects, which I would like to share with you:

First, in accordance with the requirements of a prudent monetary policy that is flexible, moderate, precise and effective, we made three significant monetary policy adjustments in February, May and July, adopting comprehensive measures in terms of aggregate, price, structure and transmission to maintain reasonable and sufficient liquidity and to promote steady declines in social financing costs. We have given guidance on optimizing the credit structure, improved the efficiency of fund utilization and effectively supported economic recovery and growth. The RMB exchange rate has remained generally stable at an adaptive, balanced level.

Second, we have fully devoted ourselves to the five major areas — technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance and digital finance — and enhanced financial support for major strategies, key areas and weak links. At the macro-policy level, we have emphasized top-level design and systematic planning, formulated and issued policy documents, and strengthened statistical monitoring and evaluation of effects. At the working mechanism level, we are committed to improving the incentive compatible mechanism. We have guided financial institutions to make full use of various structural monetary policy instruments and continuously enhance their financial service capabilities. At the financing channel level, we have supported enterprises in financing through the bond market; and we have cooperated with relevant departments to facilitate fundraising, investment, capital management and exit in the venture capital industry, with special attention given to supporting the development of startups.

Third, we have continuously improved the risk prevention and disposal mechanism and ensured that no systemic financial risks arose. To ensure both development and security, we have worked with relevant departments to effectively address and resolve financial risks in key areas, and continuously strengthen the capacity building in financial risk monitoring, early warning and assessment, with a particular focus on the construction of an early correction mechanism with hard constraints, risk prevention and control of small and medium-sized financial institutions as well as risk prevention through reform. By establishing a financial risk disposal mechanism featuring equal rights and responsibilities and incentive-constraint compatibility, we have strengthened the resource guarantee for risk disposal and woven a tight and solid net for financial safety. Currently, the number of high-risk small and medium-sized banks has decreased by nearly half from its peak.

Fourth, we have continuously promoted high-standard opening up of the financial sector and actively participated in international financial governance and cooperation. By the end of July, overseas investors held 4.5 trillion yuan ($637.68 billion) of Chinese bonds, a record high. The RMB accounted for 6% of global trade financing, ranking second. We will continue to strengthen communication and cooperation with international financial organizations and monetary authorities of major economies, actively participate in international financial governance, and enhance our capacity for opening up through expanded international cooperation.

In summary, the monetary policy and the five major areas of finance are the footholds for the PBC to promote high-quality economic and social development through financial services, while risk prevention and control and financial openness are inherent requirements for promoting the high-quality development of the financial industry itself. We are about to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the People's Republic of China this year. The PBC will thoroughly implement the guiding principles from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, unwaveringly follow the path of financial development with Chinese characteristics and promote high-quality development of the economic and financial sector.

That's all I have to say. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Thank you, Mr. Lu. I will give the floor to Ms. Li Hongyan for introduction.

Li Hongyan:

Good afternoon, everyone. First of all, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your consistent interest in and support for the administration of foreign exchange. Since the 20th CPC National Congress, SAFE has resolutely implemented the decisions and arrangements made by the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core. We have thoroughly exercised a political, people-oriented approach to financial work and continuously promoted reforms and opening up in the foreign exchange sector, providing strong support for high-quality economic development. This is mainly manifested in the following five aspects:

First, the level of cross-border trade facilitation has been further improved. We have continuously optimized the management of trade-related foreign exchange receipts and payments and canceled the administrative licensing for the registration of foreign trade businesses, which is expected to benefit more than 100,000 business entities this year. We have supported the development of new forms of trade, encouraging banks and payment institutions to handle cross-border e-commerce trade settlements based on electronic information. In the first seven months of this year, more than 500 million transactions of this kind were processed, benefiting over 1.2 million micro and small businesses. Additionally, we have enhanced payment convenience for foreigners coming to China, achieving full coverage of foreign currency exchange services in key airports, hotels, scenic areas for cultural tourism and other major venues.

Second, high-quality opening up of capital accounts has been steadily advanced. We have supported the innovative development of science and technology enterprises and extended the policy that facilitates cross-border financing for enterprises from 17 provinces and cities to the entire country. We have optimized and upgraded management policies for cross-border capital centralized operations among multinational corporations, improving their capital allocation efficiency. We have expanded the high-standard institutional opening up of financial markets and revised the Regulations on the Domestic Securities and Futures Investment Capital of Foreign Institutional Investors, further facilitating international investment in the domestic capital market.

Third, the foreign exchange market has seen further advancements in its depth and scope. Currently, China's foreign exchange market offers trading in over 40 currencies, covering all major international foreign exchange products. I'd like to share some data: in the first seven months of this year, the total transaction volume in China's foreign exchange market surged to almost $23 trillion, an increase of 8.7% year on year. In the same period, more than 20,000 businesses engaged in exchange rate hedging for the first time, which enabled more companies to manage exchange rate risks with foreign exchange derivatives.

Fourth, the governance system and governance capacity for foreign exchange have been continuously improved. We have strengthened macroprudential management and have guided market expectations, so as to maintain foreign exchange trading at a rational and orderly manner. We have collaborated with relevant authorities to severely crackdown on illegal and irregular foreign exchange activities to maintain a healthy market environment. Moreover, we have advanced reforms with banks' foreign exchange business in a prudent manner, encouraging banks to reengineer the process for foreign exchange business, so as to set up a comprehensive business framework that includes performing due diligence before the business process, differentiating in-process reviews and post-monitoring reports. By doing this, we are aiming to foster a more open and secure foreign exchange management system.

Fifth, the management of foreign exchange reserves with Chinese characteristics has been further strengthened. China has maintained its foreign exchange reserves above $3 trillion in recent years, making it the world's largest for 19 consecutive years. This has made a positive contribution to stabilizing market confidence and supporting the real economy. 

Going forward, SAFE will thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and will further deepen the reform and high-level opening up of the foreign exchange field. We are committed to the path of financial development with Chinese characteristics and will promote the high-quality development of foreign exchange management, so as to help advance Chinese modernization. 

Xing Huina:

Thank you, Mr. Li, for your introduction. Now the floor is open for questions. Please identify the news outlet you work for before asking your question. 

CCTV:

China's central bank, as mentioned previously, has conducted a series of supportive monetary policies this year. What results have these policies yielded so far? In what ways will monetary policy continue to support high-quality economic development?

Lu Lei:

Thank you for your questions. We appreciate your interest in monetary policy, including its implementation, outcomes and future course. I've shared some information about our monetary policy previously, so I'd like to offer more specific information in response to your questions.

The PBC has been firmly committed to the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, implementing a sound monetary policy in a flexible, appropriate, targeted and effective manner. Notably, we've strengthened counter-cyclical adjustments, effectively boosting the recovery trend for the economy and high-quality development. I'd like to provide a detailed breakdown in three areas. 

The first area is about policy implementation. On the one hand, aggregate monetary policy continues to take effect. At the beginning of the year, monetary policy was front-loaded, playing its role in keeping expectations stable and boosting confidence. We have cut the reserve requirement ratio by 0.5 percentage points as well as have lowered relending and rediscounting rates for the agriculture sector and small businesses by 0.25 percentage points, which have helped to reduce banks' funding costs. As a result, the over-five-year loan prime rate (LPR) was reduced by 0.25 percentage points, providing strong support for a good start to the development of macroeconomy. After the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, the PBC has swiftly implemented reform arrangements, incorporating reforms into macro control and improving the mechanism for market-based interest rate adjustment. We explicitly stated and further lowered the policy interest rate as well as have reduced the open market operation rate for seven-day reverse repurchase agreements by 0.1 percentage points. This has led to a 0.1 percentage points decrease in both the one-year LPR and over-five-year LPR. These measures have been effective in stimulating demand, helping to consolidate and strengthen the momentum of economic recovery. Furthermore, we also directed major banks to reduce deposit interest rates, so as to maintain their capacity to provide services to the real economy in a sustainable manner.

The second area is concerned with the effectiveness of policy implementation. I would say structural policies play a crucial role in this regard. This year, there has been a substantial demand for structural policies. In order to promote the development of sci-tech finance, we have launched a 500-billion-yuan relending program to support technological innovation and upgrades, which has significantly boosted effective investment. We have introduced a comprehensive package of supportive financial policies for the real estate sector, aiming to foster a stable and healthy property market. Recently, we have provided an additional 100 billion yuan in loans to agricultural and small businesses, as well as for disaster relief efforts in the 12 regions that were severely affected by floods, so as to help them resume production and business operations. These measures have yielded positive outcomes. Furthermore, we have stepped up our efforts to foster a favorable monetary and financial environment to sustain economic recovery. Data shows that the growth rate of total social financing remains within a reasonable range. As of the end of July, there has been an 8.2% year-on-year increase in the stock of aggregate financing and an 8.7% year-on-year increase in the balance of yuan-dominated loans, with both of them outpacing nominal economic growth. Social financing costs have also dropped steadily. In July, the weighted average interest rate on newly issued corporate loans stood at 3.65% and the interest rate on newly issued housing loans was 3.4%, representing a year-on-year decrease of 22 basis points and 68 basis points, respectively. Furthermore, the loan structure has continued to improve. As of the end of July, inclusive loans for micro and small enterprises have increased by 17% year on year. Medium- and long-term lending to the manufacturing sector grew by 16.9% year on year, or almost hitting 17%. Loans for enterprises that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products increased by 15% year on year. All three figures have exceeded the 8.7% year-on-year growth rate in total outstanding loans that I mentioned previously.

The third area is about future policy orientation. The PBC will continue to maintain a supportive monetary policy, and make stepped-up efforts to ensure the implementation of existing policy measures, so as to provide stronger support for high-quality economic development. We will continue to focus on the overall quantity, interest rates and structure. In terms of overall quantity, we will make use of various monetary policy tools in a comprehensive manner to keep liquidity conditions ample, and guide banks to achieve stable and sustainable loan growth. We will ensure that the scale of social financing and money supply align with the expected targets for economic growth and price levels. When it comes to interest rates, we will leverage the recent reduction in policy interest rates and loan prime rates to further drive down enterprises' financing costs and households' credit costs. In terms of structure, we will step up efforts to implement existing policy tools and introduce new measures aiming at improving capital use efficiency, providing more and better financial services to support major strategic initiatives, key areas and weak links.

Our policy priorities in the next phase will center around three dimensions: overall quantity, price levels and structure. I'll keep my remarks brief for now. Zou Lan is director general of the Monetary Policy Department and he is available to answer any questions you may have regarding monetary policy. Please feel free to engage with him for more in-depth discussions in this area. Thank you.

Cover News:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed pursuing high-standard opening up. What measures will SAFE take to implement this? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

Thank you for your question. Studying and implementing the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee is a major political task for both the current and upcoming periods. The resolution adopted at the session made specific arrangements for opening up and sent a clear signal about expanding high-level opening up. We will fully implement the session's decisions and plans, focusing on three main areas:

First, supporting the real economy and enhancing foreign exchange facilitation. Following principles of market liberalization with effective regulation, we'll strengthen credit risk assessment and improve classified management, making operations easier for honest, compliant enterprises. We'll build an open, diverse, full-functioned and competitive foreign exchange market to better leverage market mechanisms. Focusing on fostering new quality productive forces, we will mainly serve tech innovation enterprises as well as micro, small and medium enterprises, integrating efforts across five key financial areas: technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance. We'll extend foreign exchange facilitation policies to more high-quality enterprises, stimulating internal motivation and innovation. We'll promote foreign exchange regulatory innovations to adapt to digital and green trade trends, supporting new models like cross-border e-commerce and overseas warehouses. We'll also improve foreign exchange services for foreigners in China, optimize corporate exchange rate risk management, and expand cross-border financial service platforms to enhance service quality and effectiveness.

Second, promoting reform through opening up and pursuing high-level institutional opening in foreign exchange. We'll focus on improving capital account opening quality, advancing foreign direct investment forex management reforms in an orderly manner, attracting more foreign investment, upgrading and expanding multinational corporate capital pool pilots, and optimizing the qualified foreign investor system. We will further expand high-level opening up pilot programs for cross-border trade and investment, implementing forex management innovation policies first in key areas like free trade zones, Hainan Free Trade Port and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. We support the development of international financial centers in Shanghai and Hong Kong and high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Third, promoting positive interaction between high-quality development and high-level security, maintaining forex market stability and ensuring national economic and financial security. We will strengthen "macro-prudential + micro-regulatory" management of the forex market, improve monitoring, early warning and response mechanisms for cross-border capital flows, ensure comprehensive regulatory coverage, continue strict crackdowns on illegal activities, and safeguard financial security amid opening up. We'll improve the operation and management of foreign exchange reserves with Chinese characteristics to ensure the safety, liquidity and value preservation and appreciation of reserve assets.

SAFE will implement the session's decisions with a persistent "nail-driving" spirit. We'll enhance reform planning and promotion, strengthen evaluation and follow-up, and support the development of new systems for a higher-level open economy through systemic opening in the foreign exchange sector. Thank you.

Bloomberg:

My question is about interest rate policy. You spoke earlier about the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) cut the PBC made at the start of the year. How much space does the PBC have to cut interest rates further and also to reduce the RRR further this year? And do you see the necessity for that with the economy the way it is now? Thank you.

Lu Lei:

Thank you for your questions. As mentioned earlier, Zou Lan, director general of the Monetary Policy Department of PBC, is here with us. I'll ask Mr. Zou to answer these questions.

Zou Lan:

Thank you for your questions. Adjustments to reserve requirement ratios and interest rates need to be evaluated based on economic trends. Among these, the RRR is a tool for providing long-term liquidity, while 7-day reverse repos and medium-term lending facilities address medium- and short-term liquidity fluctuations. This year, we've also added government bond trading tools. By using these tools comprehensively, our goal is to maintain reasonable and ample liquidity in the banking system. The effects of the RRR cut at the beginning of the year continue to emerge. Currently, the average RRR for financial institutions is about 7%, leaving some room for adjustments.

Regarding interest rates, as Mr. Lu mentioned, the PBC has continued to steadily reduce overall financing costs. Since the beginning of this year, one-year and five-year-plus loan prime rates have decreased by 0.1 percentage point and 0.35 percentage point, respectively, driving a continuous decline in average loan rates. However, factors like the speed of bank deposit shifts to asset management products and narrowing bank net interest margins constrain further reductions in deposit and loan rates. The central bank will closely monitor policy effects and adjust the intensity and pace of monetary policy based on economic recovery, goal achievement and specific macroeconomic issues.

Thank you!

21st Century Business Herald:

I am particularly interested in issues related to inclusive finance. Could you provide an update on the current situation and progress of inclusive finance in China? Moving forward, how will it support high-quality development?

Lu Lei:

I'll answer your questions. Thank you for your interest in inclusive finance. We consider inclusive finance an important part of China's unique financial service system. China, especially in digital inclusive finance, maintains a leading global position. For years, the PBC has taken multiple measures to strongly support inclusive finance development, aiding private, micro, small and medium enterprises, contributing to poverty alleviation and rural revitalization, and better serving social needs. From our observations, the accessibility, coverage and satisfaction of financial services have continuously improved. The benefits of financial reform and development are reaching more and more people.

In supporting private, micro, small and medium enterprises, financial service quality and effectiveness have significantly improved. The PBC has played a key role in policy guidance and incentives, establishing support tools for inclusive loans to micro and small businesses. It has guided financial institutions to enhance their service capabilities for micro, small and medium enterprises and encouraged more credit issuance to meet the needs of private, micro, small and medium enterprises. As of late July, the balance of inclusive loans to micro and small businesses reached 32.1 trillion yuan, up 17% year on year, with 62.39 million credit accounts covering over one-third of business entities.

In supporting comprehensive rural revitalization, we've consolidated poverty alleviation achievements and continued efforts persistently. Recently, the PBC, collaborating with relevant departments, introduced new policies, including five major campaigns focusing on rural industry development, construction and governance. These aim to increase financial support for rural revitalization. As of late July, the national balance of agricultural loans reached 50.47 trillion yuan, up 11.6% year on year.

In addressing critical aspects of people's well-being, the PBC, in collaboration with relevant departments, has refined policies related to the guaranteeing of loans for business startups by increasing loan limits and including veterans and disabled individuals among the beneficiaries, thereby supporting their pursuits in employment and entrepreneurship. Specifically for economically disadvantaged students, the PBC has improved government-subsidized student loans by initiating an interest-free loan policy in 2024, enabling students to finish their education. By the end of the second quarter of this year, the balance of guaranteed loans for startups reached 293.3 billion yuan and student loans were at 208.5 billion yuan.

Our review identifies policy orientation and financial institution services as the twin pillars essential for developing inclusive finance. Effective policymaking and the robust services offered by financial institutions are both indispensable. Moving forward, the PBC will balance expansion with commercial sustainability, speeding up the development of a stable, incentive-compatible mechanism for inclusive finance. 

At the policy level, our strategies highlight development priorities, directing more financial resources towards key areas and populations to promote balanced and coordinated development between urban and rural areas as well as reinforce social equity and equal opportunities. Additionally, a sound management system along with implementation supervision are crucial for guiding financial institutions to make better and fuller use of monetary policy tools, instruments supporting debt financing and other financial instruments.

Regarding financial institutions, first, it is vital to utilize the comparative advantages of diverse financial entities and improve the durable mechanism that encourages financial institutions to be confident, willing and capable to grant loans. Second, we will embrace technological empowerment. As I just said, our nation leads in digital inclusive finance. Through sci-tech empowerment and application of data technologies, we aim to facilitate deeper integration of fin-tech and inclusive finance. This engagement will drive transformative shifts in how inclusive finance is developed and managed, thus enhancing the accessibility and convenience of these financial services.

Moreover, we plan to utilize platforms such as the Group of 20 and the Belt and Road Initiative for enhanced international dialogue and collaboration, deeply engaging in the global governance of inclusive finance. Thank you for your attention.

The Poster News APP：

In the past five years, our country has seen significant overperformance in the annual growth rates of inclusive small and micro-business loans, green loans, medium and long-term loans for high-tech manufacturing industries as well as loans to technology-driven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) compared to the overall annual loan growth rates. Moving forward, how can financial supports be boosted to achieve a high level of technological independence and strength? Thank you.

Lu Lei:

Thank you for your question. As you might be aware, the PBC established a dedicated department, namely the Credit Market Department, in the first half of this year, to better implement the five major strategies for the development of the financial sector. Today, we also have with us Mr. Peng, Director of the Credit Market Department. I will pass your question to Mr. Peng.

Peng Lifeng:

Thank you for your question. The Central Financial Work Conference highlighted the significance to effectively implement the five major strategies regarding finance: technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance and digital finance, with technology finance being listed first. Its significance shouldn't be understated. In recent years, the PBC has worked closely with the Ministry of Science and Technology and other relevant departments to continuously enhance financial support for scientific research and technological development as well as for the commercialization of results throughout the entire financial service chain, achieving noteworthy positive outcomes. For example, we made an action plan to enhance support for financing of tech-centric businesses, facilitated the establishment of pilot zones for financial reforms targeting sci-tech innovation, as well as established a policy framework for technology finance with coordination among various departments and between the central and local authorities. We have also prioritized technological innovation within our strategy to enhance the structure of capital supply, establishing a total of 700 billion yuan in special re-loans to encourage tech innovation and executing targeted actions to advance financial service capabilities in technological fields. Over the past five years, lending to technology enterprises in our country has grown at an annual rate of 20%, nearly double the overall loan growth rate. Detailed data shows even more encouraging trends: loans to tech-oriented SMEs have grown at an annual rate of 25%, higher than the growth rate of loans to all sci-tech enterprises, and loans to "specialized, sophisticated, distinctive and innovative" enterprises have risen by 18% annually, both well above the general lending growth. Furthermore, the issuance of tech notes—bonds specifically issued by tech enterprises—has totaled 860 billion yuan.

Looking ahead, our focus remains firmly on establishing China as a leader in science and technology by developing a financial system that resonates with and bolsters technological innovation. We aim to channel financial capital to invest in projects at the early stages, in small enterprises, over long time horizons, and in advanced and core technologies.

In our strategic approach, we are committed to a comprehensive methodology that integrates various elements. We are dedicated to enhancing financing services for major national scientific and technological projects, establishing a coordination mechanism between financial policies and scientific and technological industrial policies, expanding the array of policy tools and measures for boosting financial support, refining the risk mitigation mechanisms for significant technological research as well as encouraging financial institutions to offer long-term, cost-effective financing support. Furthermore, we are determined to provide robust financial services throughout the entire lifecycle of tech enterprises. We know that these enterprises transition through distinct stages: seed, startup, growth and maturity. With varying financial needs at each stage, we focus particularly on fortifying support for the startup and growth phases of sci-tech SMEs, identified as the more vulnerable segments within our national framework of scientific and technological financial services. To deepen the financial sector's supply-side structural reform, we aim to elevate three key ratios. First, we will increase the share of direct financing within social financing, further diversify capital market financing products and introduce specialized financial bonds dedicated to scientific and technological innovation. These differ from the science and technology innovation notes issued by tech enterprises in that these special financial bonds are issued by financial institutions specifically to strengthen tech enterprises and to broaden the fund resources for financial institutions. Simultaneously, we will enhance incentives and transformations within the financial system to cultivate patient capital. Second, we intend to amplify the proportion of investment at early stages and in small businesses in equity financing, implement policies and measures for the high-quality development of venture capital, optimize the complete cycle of venture capital covering fundraising, investment, management and exit, as well as improve the convenience for foreign investors undertaking equity and venture investment in China. Lastly, we seek to boost the fraction of loans allocated for scientific and technological innovation within the total loan portfolio, effectively utilize reloans designated for technological upgrades and innovations, set up an evaluation mechanism for tech-financial services, guide financial institutions to improve their risk assessment capabilities for tech enterprises, and develop more financial products tailored to the unique requirements of the high-tech sector.

South China Morning Post：

In a recent interview, as the governor of the PBC, Pan Gongsheng indicated that there are plans to implement new incremental policies. Could you provide more details on what these measures might entail? Will the expected interest rate reductions in the United States hasten the adoption of these policies? Thank you.

Lu Lei:

Thank you for your questions. Since they concern specific aspects of monetary policy, I would like to ask Mr. Zou to address these questions.

Zou Lan:

Thank you for your concern about monetary policy. As Mr. Lu just mentioned, since the beginning of this year, the PBC has implemented three significant monetary policy adjustments which have effectively supported economic recovery. At the beginning of the year, proactive and early measures were taken in terms of total amount, with an unexpected substantial cut in the reserve requirement ratio of 0.5 percentage points, helping the economy achieve a good start. In the second quarter, we focused on key aspects of high-quality development, established relending programs for technological innovation and transformation as well as launched a combination of policies targeting the real estate market. Since the third quarter, reforms have intensified in response to the arrangements of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. In late July, a series of monetary policy measures were introduced, including lowering policy interest rates and improving the interest rate adjustment mechanism. This reflects both short-term adjustments and medium- and long-term reform strategies.

Overall, a prudent monetary policy has created a favorable monetary and financial environment for economic recovery and development. In terms of total volume, there has been a reasonable growth in money supply and credit, with the growth rate of social financing and RMB loans exceeding that of nominal GDP. Structurally, support for key areas and weak links has been strengthened, and the credit structure has been continuously optimized. In terms of pricing, the cost of corporate financing and household loans have both decreased. Mr. Lu has already provided detailed data on this.

We will continue to closely monitor monetary policy adjustments of major developed economies. At the same time, China's monetary policy will continue to prioritize domestic needs, with a focus on supporting the domestic economic development. First, in terms of total amount, we will enhance counter-cyclical adjustments, flexibly use various monetary policy tools, maintain reasonable growth in money supply and credit as well as will work to steadily reduce comprehensive social financing costs to support and strengthen the positive momentum of economic recovery. Second, in terms of structure, we will focus on several key areas such as the five major tasks of promoting science and technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, old-age finance, and digital finance ; the national strategy of issuing and making good use of ultra-long special treasury bonds to support the implementation of major national strategies and build up security capacity in key areas ; and the action plan to promote large-scale equipment renewals and trade-ins of consumer goods. We will continue to guide financial institutions to increase credit support for key areas and weak links, and, more specifically, focus on meeting reasonable consumer financing needs. Thanks.

Phoenix TV:

At present, cross-border capital flows are becoming increasingly frequent. Could you provide details on the reform measures worthy of attention in the next step of high-level opening-up for the capital account? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

Thank you for your question. Mr. Xiao Sheng will answer this question.

Xiao Sheng:

Thank you for your attention to the issue of the capital account's opening-up. As Ms. Li Hongyan just mentioned, in recent years SAFE has been continuously advancing reforms in the management of foreign exchange for the capital account to better facilitate cross-border capital operations for cross-border entities. Next, SAFE will continue to implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, adhere to the principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability, promote stability through progress and further deepen the reforms of foreign exchange management for the capital account, thus continuously improving the quality of the capital account's opening-up. We will focus on the following four areas:

First, we will scientifically manage the timing and efficiency of the capital account's opening-up. We will strategically coordinate and orderly advance foreign exchange management reforms in areas such as direct investment, cross-border financing and cross-border security investment. At the same time, we will focus on the systematic integration of reforms and continue to promote integrated pilot policies to facilitate cross-border investment and financing. In the first eight months of this year, pilot projects for high-level opening-up of cross-border investment and financing have benefited more than 1,400 enterprises, supporting high-quality development of the real economy.

Second, we will lead the overall progress through key points to intensify the reform for foreign exchange management of the capital account. We will promote and improve integrated management of overseas lending in both foreign and domestic currencies and support enterprises in both "going global" and "bringing in" investments in an orderly manner. We will steadily advance the upgrading and expansion for the capital pool business of multinational companies, further improve the operational efficiency for the cross-border funds of multinational companies and support the development of headquarters economy. By the end of August this year, over 1,000 multinational corporate groups have participated in capital pool business, covering 18,000 member enterprises. At the same time, we will work with relevant departments to steadily expand the opening-up of financial markets, improve the management of funds for domestic enterprises' overseas direct listings, optimize the Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor (QFII) system and orderly advance the Qualified Domestic Institutional Investor (QDII) program. In the first half of this year, a total of $2.27 billion QDII quotas have been issued. 

Third, we will support the opening-up and development of key regions. We will provide institutional opening-up to serve national and regional development strategies, such as supporting multinational companies in establishing global or regional treasury centers in Shanghai, supporting the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in piloting various innovative policies as well as steadily advancing the construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port and cooperation zones in Hengqin and Qianhai. At the same time, we will provide precise support for regional and industrial development. Based on the earlier implementation of pilot programs such as the "Research Funding Facilitation Policy" in Hetao and "Qianhai Hong Kong Enterprise Loans " in Qianhai, both located in Shenzhen, we will further enhance support for the facilitation of cross-border investment, financing and fund exchange.

Finally, in accordance with deployment requirements of "achieving positive interaction between high-quality development and high-level security," SAFE will build and improve a fully processed, full cycle and fully linked capital account opening-up and risk prevention and control system, firmly securing the bottom line to ensure that systemic financial risks do not occur. Thank you!

Nikkei: 

The PBC is actively planning the promotion of digital RMB, with research reaching the 10-year mark this year. What is the current progress with its empirical experiments in China? Additionally, in June of this year, the cross-border settlement pilot project for digital currencies, jointly developed by China and its Hong Kong region, Thailand and the UAE, entered the minimum viable product (MVP) stage. How do you evaluate the progress of this pilot project? Thank you.

Lu Lei:

Thank you for raising such cutting-edge questions. The construction of a legal currency system that aligns with the digital economy is a topic of great concern to central banks and international organizations. So far, there is no single model or successful paradigm. As you know, we have been actively planning, researching and promoting digital RMB for 10 years now. China's research and development of a digital RMB system aims to create a new system for the issuance and operation of RMB in a digital format that is tailored to the conditions of the digital economy. I need to emphasize that the digital economy, digital form of currency issuance and its operation represent a comprehensive reform, supporting the development of China's digital economy, improving the level of inclusive finance development and enhancing the efficiency of the currency and payment system operations. I have briefly introduced our goals and ideas to you. After more than 6 years of research and development, and over 4 years of pilot trials, spanning more than 10 years in total, we have preliminarily verified the feasibility and reliability of digital RMB in terms of theory, business and technology. We also aim to make it more compatible with the digital economy. Overall, progress has been smooth. I would like to provide a brief overview of the relevant situation.

First, a basic framework system has been established. Combining the overall situation of pilot projects with China's specific situation, we have initially formed a two-tier operational structure of "central bank plus operating institutions," with various systems being constantly improved.

Second, we have steadily expanding our R&D pilot projects, and continually exploring innovative application scenarios. At present, the digital yuan has been piloted in 17 provinces and equivalent administrative units, with applications spanning wholesale and retail, catering, culture and tourism, education as well as medical care. These pilots have yielded a batch of replicable and promotable application solutions both online and offline. The digital yuan has played a positive role in boosting consumption, promoting green transformation, and optimizing the business environment. By the end of June this year, the cumulative transaction amount of digital yuan had reached 7 trillion yuan.

Third, we have continually upgraded our services. On the one hand, we have consistently enriched the digital yuan product system, developing innovative products such as smart contracts, as well as barrier-free, age-appropriate and other functions. We have also promoted the wider acceptance of digital yuan to expand its coverage and bring greater convenience. On the other hand, we have continuously improved the digital yuan service system to offer greater convenience for foreign visitors to China. As you know, the digital yuan was used as an innovative payment method at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, as well as the Chengdu Universiade and Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023. Next, the PBC will earnestly implement the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, grasp the general trend of digital development, continuously and steadily promote the research, development and application of the digital yuan, and consolidate the foundation for the development of the digital yuan.

This is the basic situation regarding the digital yuan, from its research and development to application. As you requested, I would like to delve into the cross-border digital currency experimental project currently underway. To be precise, such an experimental project is a multilateral central bank digital currency bridge project, which is led by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Hong Kong Innovation Centre, and is committed to exploring and solving the shortcomings of cross-border payments. Under the cooperation framework of the BIS, the Digital Currency Institute of the PBC, the Bank of Thailand, the Central Bank of the UAE and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority jointly participated in the project. Currently, the project has reached the minimum viable product (MVP) stage, enabling participating institutions within each jurisdiction to carry out real-world transactions in an orderly manner according to due procedures. In addition, the Group of 20 (G20) has put forward initiatives to improve cross-border payments, and several international organizations have studied the applicability of central bank digital currency in cross-border areas from different perspectives. The PBC is committed to actively participate in, conduct joint research and improve cross-border payments to foster connectivity of international financial infrastructure.

That is all from me. Thank you.

Economic Daily:

What are the new features and changes in China's international balance of payments in recent years? What will the trends be in the future? Thank you.

Li Hongyan:

Thank you for your questions; I'm happy to address them. The international balance of payments is a highly important indicator reflecting both domestic and external balance of an economy. It has been attracting widespread attention from markets, while its monitoring and analysis have been a focus of our work. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, China's economic strength has seen a historic leap, laying a solid foundation for the steady operation of the international balance of payments. In general, there are several features: the current account surplus is reasonable and balanced, cross-border investment is more active, an independent equilibrium has been maintained in the balance of payments, and foreign exchange reserves rank first in the world. Specifically:

First, the current account balance has expanded significantly, and has shown greater stability. In recent years, China has continuously promoted industrial transformation and upgrading, fostered integration between the service and manufacturing industries, and showed steady growth in exports. As the economy has developed and people's living standards have improved, China's import demand for overseas goods and services has also increased. In 2023, China's current account balance exceeded $7.3 trillion, an increase of 60% compared with 2012. At the same time, with the increasingly balanced, coordinated and sustainable economic development, China's current account surplus to gross domestic product (GDP) ratio has maintained at around 2% in recent years, which is within a reasonable and balanced range.

Second, two-way cross-border investment has become increasingly robust. In terms of direct investment, Chinese enterprises have strengthened their global presence and expanded their capital outflows. The stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) has leapt from 12th in 2012 to fourth in 2023 globally. China has also maintained its position as an important destination for foreign investors, with its investment stock ranking second in the world, while its investment structure has been continuously optimized. Concerning securities investment, the two-way opening of the financial market has progressed steadily, and the asset allocation demand of domestic and overseas investors has increased significantly. By the end of 2023, cross-border securities investment accounted for 17% of China's total foreign assets and liabilities, up 8 percentage points from 2012.

Third, an independent equilibrium has been maintained in the balance of payments. In recent years, the market-oriented formation mechanism of the RMB exchange rate has been continuously improved, the flexibility of the exchange rate has been continuously enhanced, and the automatic stabilizer function of the exchange rate in adjusting the international balance of payments has been continuously optimized. With the reform and development of the foreign exchange market, the ability of enterprise exchange rate risk management has significantly enhanced, and foreign exchange market transactions have become more rational and orderly. The balance of payments has gradually shifted from a pattern of surplus in both the current and capital accounts to a more balanced position with surplus in one and deficits in the other," maintaining a basic stability in foreign exchange reserves.

Looking ahead, China will further deepen reform comprehensively, continuously transform and upgrade its economic structure, and strengthen the resilience of its foreign exchange market. Under the support of these favorable factors, China's international balance of payments will continue to show a pattern of larger scale, optimized structure and basic equilibrium. At the same time, we will pay close attention to the changing situation, optimize the risk warning and response mechanism, guard against the risks of abnormal flow of cross-border funds, and safeguard China's economic and financial security. Thank you.

China News Service:

We recognize that high-quality development is inseparable from the advancement of financial system reform. Looking ahead, how will the central bank further refine its monetary policy framework? Thank you.

Lu Lei:

The reporter is very much concerned about monetary policies. We will have Mr. Zou Lan to answer this question.

Zou Lan:

Thank you for your question. PBC Governor Pan Gongsheng outlined the approach to improving the monetary policy framework at the Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai on June 19. Building on this, I'd like to provide an introduction that includes some updates on the latest progress.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed deepening financial system reform and accelerating improvements to the central bank system. At its core, this involves enhancing the modern monetary policy framework with Chinese characteristics and building a strong currency. We will further improve the monetary policy framework with Chinese characteristics, considering economic and financial developments and conducting prudent assessments of monetary policy effectiveness.

First, we should consider optimizing the intermediate variables for monetary policy regulation. In recent years, China's economic structural transformation has accelerated. The financial market has developed and the financing structure has evolved. These changes have reduced the measurability and controllability of the money supply and its correlation with the economy. We will gradually shift focus from quantitative targets, using them more as observational, reference and anticipatory indicators. Instead, we'll pay more attention to price-based regulation tools such as interest rates. Simultaneously, in light of changing circumstances, we will study and improve the statistical criteria for money supply to ensure monetary statistics reflect the actual situation.

Second, we need to reform the interest rate regulation mechanism. Previously, we had multiple policy rates, making it unclear which one the market should use as a reference. Now, we have made it clear that the 7-day repo rate in the open market is the major policy rate, with the medium-term lending facility playing a secondary role in policy rates. We've changed the 7-day reverse repo from interest rate bidding to fixed-rate quantity bidding, fully meeting primary dealers' bidding needs. The interest rate is no longer a tender result but is determined by the central bank in accordance with the needs of implementing monetary policy. The quantity is no longer a means for the central bank to regulate liquidity but is jointly determined by primary dealers based on the policy rate and their market judgment. This helps boost institutions' initiative to manage liquidity.

In the future, we will further improve the market-based interest rate regulation mechanism. We'll appropriately narrow the width of the interest rate corridor to better guide market-based interest rates to operate steadily around the policy rates. Meanwhile, in terms of interest rate transmission, we'll focus on improving the quality of loan prime rate (LPR) quotes, granting financial institutions more power to set their interest rates, more accurately reflecting loan market rates, and promoting the smooth transmission of market interest rates from short to long term. To avoid affecting the transmission of policy rates to the LPR, the monthly medium-term lending facility operations will be scheduled after the LPR is published. The price will be determined by the bidding agencies' offers.

Additionally, we will continuously enrich our monetary policy toolkit. To implement the Central Financial Work Conference's requirement to enrich the monetary policy toolkit and increase treasury bond trading in the central bank's open market operations, the PBC has been conducting government bond trading since August. We released the "Announcement on Government Bond Transactions No.1" at the end of August, on the basis of strengthening coordination with financial departments and continuously optimizing the institutional arrangements for the issuance and trading of treasury bonds. In August, the PBC purchased short-term treasury bonds from primary dealers and sold long-term treasury bonds, with a net monthly purchase of 100 billion yuan in treasury bonds. The central bank's treasury bond trading primarily focuses on base currency supply and liquidity management. It allows for both buying and selling treasury bonds. Through flexible combination with other tools, short-, medium- and long-term liquidity management can be sound and targeted. At the same time, we will also take innovative steps to implement structural monetary policy tools in line with macroeconomic conditions and regulatory needs, continuously improving the efficiency of monetary policy.

Finally, we must further improve the transmission of monetary policy. This process actually has two stages. The first is transmission from the central bank to financial markets. By strengthening policy communication and expectation guidance, increasing monetary policy transparency, and enhancing financial institutions' capacity to set prices independently and rationally, we can improve the quality and efficiency of financial services. The second stage is transmission from financial markets to the real economy. We need to focus on removing barriers to policy transmission and strengthen coordination among monetary, fiscal, industrial, regulatory and other policies. We aim to promote supply-demand balance and shift economic policy focus toward areas benefiting people's livelihoods and boosting consumption. We will also improve how policies affect real economic factors like consumption, investment and other variables. These efforts will help improve the quality and efficiency of financial services.

That's all from me. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, we'll take one last question, please.

National Business Daily:

Green finance has become a hot topic as China pursues its dual carbon goals: peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality by 2060. What work has the PBC done to promote innovation in financial products and services supporting the transition to green and low-carbon development? Thank you.

Lu Lei:

Thank you for your important question. I will answer it. As we all know, green development is a defining feature of high-quality development. The concept of green development is rich and multifaceted. We've preliminarily summarized that it encompasses many areas, including industrial restructuring, climate change response, pollution prevention and control, and eco-environmental protection. Therefore, it has broad development prospects. Due to the extensive prospects and the many areas involved, green development naturally has a strong demand for funding. Therefore, we might say green finance represents a new type of supply-demand relationship formed in the financial sector as a result of green development.

Focusing on green finance, the PBC has upheld the principle of "establishing the new before abolishing the old," supporting the faster accumulation of financial resources in green and low-carbon areas. First, we've enhanced policy guidance. This year, we took the lead in introducing the "Guidance on Strengthening Financial Support for Green and Low-Carbon Development." This document specifies goals and concrete measures for optimizing the standards system, strengthening information disclosure, and promoting product and market development. In addition, we've also leveraged green financial products like green loans and bonds, utilizing carbon-reduction support tools to provide more funding for the development of green industries. As of the end of the second quarter, China's green loan balance reached 34.76 trillion yuan, up 28.5% year on year. The carbon-reduction support tool has driven over 1.1 trillion yuan in carbon-reduction loans. The balance of green bonds stood at 1.99 trillion yuan, with cumulative issuance exceeding 3.7 trillion yuan. Simultaneously, we've strengthened interdepartmental cooperation, establishing a working mechanism for green financial services to support building a beautiful China. We've enhanced interdepartmental and cross-sector coordination and cooperation among industrial and financial departments and market entities, jointly promoting the green and low-carbon transition of economic and social development.

As far as I'm concerned, interdepartmental coordination and cooperation are crucial. The financial sector, other relevant departments and market entities should all work together.

After our recent work, we've identified effective ways to develop green finance, which we summarize as "two foundations and three key elements." The "two foundations" are: first, accelerating the development of emerging green industries and second, promoting the green transition of traditional industries. The "three key elements" refer to effective monetary and credit policies, financial market instruments, and interdepartmental coordination. These will constitute the focus of our follow-up work.

First, we'll refine the policy system. In accordance with the overall requirements for building a beautiful China, we'll introduce a series of green finance policies and arrangements. We'll expand the scope of carbon reduction support tools, extend the validity period of policies, and increase the scale of re-lending to provide more low-cost funding for green development and low-carbon transition. We'll include financial institutions' support for green and low-carbon development in our green finance assessment framework. By strengthening the application of assessment results, we aim to guide more financial resources toward green and low-carbon development.

Second, we'll expand financial market instruments. We'll build a high-standard green bond market, strengthening management of green bond issuance, duration and third-party evaluations. We'll particularly focus on preventing the greenwashing of financial bonds. We'll further diversify green bond types and broaden financing channels for green industries.

Third, we'll strengthen interdepartmental coordination. We'll establish and improve a regular information-sharing mechanism and refine the support system for green finance policies. We aim to enhance the systematicity, consistency, authority, and enforceability of green finance standards.

That's all I have to say about green finance. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Today's briefing is hereby concluded. Thanks to all the speakers and to all our media friends for participating. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Wang Ziteng, Wang Wei, Gong Yingchun, Ma Yujia, Mi Xingang, Zhou Jing, Liao Jiaxin, Liu Sitong, Yan Xiaoqing, Zhang Rui, Zhang Tingting, Li Huiru, Xu Kailin, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Wang Daoxi, vice minister of emergency management

Mr. Zhou Tian, vice minister of emergency management and administrator of the National Fire and Rescue Administration

Mr. Huang Jinsheng, a member of the Party committee of the Ministry of Emergency Management and administrator of the National Mine Safety Administration

Mr. Wang Kun, a member of the Party committee of the Ministry of Emergency Management and administrator of the China Earthquake Administration

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 4, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Wang Daoxi, vice minister of emergency management; Mr. Zhou Tian, vice minister of emergency management and administrator of the National Fire and Rescue Administration; Mr. Huang Jinsheng, a member of the Party committee of the Ministry of Emergency Management and administrator of the National Mine Safety Administration; and Mr. Wang Kun, a member of the Party committee of the Ministry of Emergency Management and administrator of the China Earthquake Administration. They will provide briefings on relevant developments and take your questions. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Wang for his introduction. 

Wang Daoxi:

Laides and gentlemen, good morning. 

First of all, I would like to express my gratitude for your long-term interest in and support for emergency management work. Today, my colleagues and I will speak with you about how emergency management efforts have promoted high-quality development. 

Ensuring both development and security is a major principle underlying the governance of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Since the 20th CPC National Congress, General Secretary Xi Jinping has made a series of new conclusions on how to ensure high-quality development and greater security reinforce each other, as well as better safeguarding China's new pattern of development with new security architecture. In line with General Secretary Xi Jinping's important instructions as well as the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we have prevented risks, ensured safety and maintained stability with an ever-present sense of responsibility. These efforts have led to a favorable security environment for high-quality economic and social development, which can be summarized in four respects:

First, we have prioritized prevention and maintained a stable security situation. With regards to effective prevention as a fundamental principle and leveraging the functions of the State Council's Work Safety Commission, we have focused on strengthening responsibility implementation and addressed root causes of workplace safety accidents, resolutely preventing major and serious accidents. We have clarified responsibilities across the entire chain for "one matter," launching special initiatives on gas safety and electric bicycle safety as well as clearing fire escape routes. Across the country, 12.32 million illegally installed burglar-proof windows and billboards have been dismantled or modified, and 6.48 million new charging ports have been added in existing residential complexes and open public spaces. We have put equal emphasis on strict law enforcement and regulation as well as enthusiastic guidance and services, offering more timely assistance to address urgent public concerns. For example, we have established a "paired-up assistance" mechanism for key regions, dispatched expert teams to key industries and proactively helped enterprises solve real problems early on to support their safe development. As of the end of August this year, compared to the same period last year, the total number of workplace safety accidents nationwide decreased by 25.7%, with major and serious accidents down by 45.5%.

Second, we have enhanced relevant systems, making rescue operations more efficient. A comprehensive committee for disaster prevention, mitigation and relief has been established, and efforts have been made to enhance across-the-board coordination for disaster response. We have created a mechanism of command and coordination by the national emergency response headquarters, and built up an interconnected emergency response information network. We have accelerated the development of a safety risk monitoring and early warning system, and refined emergency response plans to ensure preparedness. Last year, additional treasury bonds were issued to support post-disaster recovery and reconstruction as well as reinforce disaster prevention, mitigation and relief capacities, with natural disaster response enhancement projects vigorously implemented. This year, China experienced multiple instances of prolonged heavy rainfall, breaking several hydrological and meteorological records and causing severe disasters in some regions. In response, we organized extensive flood prevention and combating efforts, pre-allocated relief funds in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, and dispatched working groups to the front lines in order to provide guidance and assistance and resolutely win this tough battle. The China National Comprehensive Fire and Rescue Team worked tirelessly to rescue trapped individuals, demonstrating their essential role in emergency response and illustrating the true image of firefighters.

Third, we have focused on fortifying the foundation, significantly improving intrinsic safety. We have taken strengthening the foundation as a focus in our current emergency management work, addressing both the symptoms and root causes of problems. Maintaining order in accordance with the law, we have promoted the formulation and revision of several laws and regulations, including the Emergency Response Law and the Regulations on Coal Mine Safety. We have released a series of industry standards, integrating safety requirements into all stages including planning, project initiation, construction and operation. We have also adhered to promoting safety through advancements in science and technology, implementing the "smart emergency response" strategy. We have vigorously promoted mechanization and automation in high-risk industries to reduce the need for manual labor, leveraging information technology to drive emergency management modernization. Additionally, we have been committed to strengthening safety through quality workforce development. We have initiated an emergency response technology talent program and made great efforts to cultivate emergency management talent. At the same time, we have actively supported the development of community-level emergency management capacities, directing more resources and strengths to lower-level governments in order to reduce their burden while empowering them for emergency response.

Fourth, we uphold social co-governance, continuously strengthening safety by relying on the public. Development is for the people and relies on the people. We have fully mobilized enthusiasm across all sectors of society, encouraging widespread participation in public security management. We have regulated and guided the development of social emergency response teams and promoted the involvement of commercial insurance, credit supervision, and safety evaluation institutions in accident prevention and disaster relief, steadily bolstering collective prevention and control efforts. Since the beginning of this year, more than 310,000 public reports on workplace safety have been filed nationwide, with over 30 million yuan in rewards distributed. We have also publicly commended several exemplary cases where disaster information personnel successfully sounded alarms and organized evacuations to avoid danger. We have expanded various channels to cultivate a culture of safety, continuously intensified emergency knowledge popularization, and launched innovative initiatives such as Work Safety Month, Fire Safety Month, and Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Awareness Week. Additionally, we've bolstered safety training for key personnel of enterprises in high-risk industries, aiming to ensure that everyone prioritizes safety and knows emergency response.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee outlined strategic arrangements to strengthen the national security system and improve public security governance mechanisms. These plans provide a clear direction and momentum for deepening reforms in emergency management. Moving forward, we will fully implement the spirit of the plenary session with a reform and innovation mindset, adhering to the principle of balancing development with security. Our priorities are to fortify systems, refine mechanisms, enhance grassroots capabilities, and boost overall capacity. We will actively promote the modernization of emergency management systems and capabilities. Our goal is to effectively transform the strategic deployment of further deepening reform comprehensively into practical actions that advance the reform and development of emergency management.

That's all for my introduction. My colleagues and I are now ready to answer your questions. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the news outlet you represent before raising your questions.

N Video from Nanfang Metropolis Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has made strategic plans for further deepening reform comprehensively and set forth specific emergency management reform requirements. What measures will the Ministry of Emergency Management take to implement these requirements and further enhance the capacity and level of high-quality development?

Wang Daoxi:

Thank you for your question. I will answer it. The resolution from the plenary session includes a dedicated chapter on advancing the modernization of the national security system and capacity, as well as a specific section on improving public security governance mechanisms. This represents a major strategic initiative to implement a holistic national security approach. It aims to balance development with security and address major risks and challenges, thereby ensuring steady and sustained progress in the cause of the Party and the country. Based on the full implementation of the plenary session's decisions and plans, we will focus on three key areas:

First, we will focus on enhancing our rescue and relief capabilities. We are accelerating the integration and reform of national comprehensive fire and rescue teams to improve the response and support system for major public emergencies. We aim to quickly establish six regional rescue centers in northeast, north, central, southeast, southwest and northwest China, creating key powerful forces tailored to each region's disaster characteristics. To meet practical demands under extreme conditions such as road blockages, network failures, and power outages, we are increasing the development and deployment of advanced specialized equipment for aerial rescue, water rescue, personnel search and rescue, emergency communications, and engineering disaster response. We are also improving mechanisms for rapid allocation and delivery of disaster relief supplies to meet the diverse needs of affected populations, particularly for older people, women and children. Our goal is to ensure that rescue and relief efforts are not only swift but also compassionate. To refine the emergency response command mechanisms under the overall safety and emergency response framework, we will expedite the revision and issuance of the National Emergency Management System Plan and related specialized plans. This will further strengthen the Party's leadership and command in emergency management, clarify the responsibilities of relevant departments, and better ensure the optimization, coordination and efficiency of various forces and resources. At the national level, we have already established the emergency command headquarters. We will guide local authorities in building robust emergency command centers at the provincial, municipal and county levels, complemented by improved communication networks and information systems. This will enhance the comprehensiveness, systematization and professionalism of emergency command operations.

Second, we will focus on improving the quality of risk prevention. To enhance the mechanisms for identifying and addressing workplace safety risks and for conducting retroactive liability investigations, we will continuously optimize criteria for determining major hidden dangers. We'll improve long-term mechanisms for expert and specialized technical service organizations to participate in risk identification and mitigation, standardizing and professionalizing the process. We will also help enterprises establish and enhance regular self-inspection and hazard mitigation mechanisms, encouraging proactive risk identification and prevention to ensure safe development. Additionally,, we will intensify efforts to ensure the fulfillment of investigation and rectification responsibilities. This includes improving local government oversight systems for major accident risk prevention, and establishing mechanisms for relevant departments to review and approve the resolution of risk warnings. Entities that fail to investigate and rectify obvious major risks, especially those causing significant casualties, will be held accountable in accordance with laws and regulations.

Third, we will focus on strengthening our efforts at the primary level. In February, guidelines on enhancing primary-level emergency management capabilities were approved at the fourth meeting of the Commission for Further Reform under the CPC Central Committee. We are now swiftly modifying and improving these guidelines in line with the meeting's requirements and the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. After the guidelines are released, we will work with relevant departments to implement them thoroughly. We'll continuously enhance primary-level emergency management organizations' capabilities for command, risk prevention, practical response, emergency handling, and ensuring supplies and resources. By doing so, we will strengthen the first line of defense in emergency management. The first national comprehensive natural disaster risk survey has provided a clear picture of the hidden hazards across the country. We will continue to utilize the information gathered by the survey, controlling risks at their source and promoting meticulous risk management. These efforts will constantly improve comprehensive disaster reduction capacity at the primary level. Thank you.

China Media Group:

We've noticed that following the reform and restructuring of the fire and rescue service, its functions have expanded and its responsibilities have increased, presenting many new challenges. How has the national comprehensive fire and rescue team advanced its organizational structure and enhanced its professional rescue capabilities in recent years? Thank you.

Wang Daoxi:

I would like to invite Mr. Zhou to answer this question.

Zhou Tian:

Thank you for your question. The functions of the nation's comprehensive fire and rescue service have significantly expanded since the reform and restructuring began. The annual number of emergency calls we responded to increased from 1.18 million in 2018 to 2.14 million in 2023, nearly doubling in five years. To meet these expanded responsibilities, we have faithfully implemented the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping. We've further advanced the development of our organizational structure based on China's specific conditions and enhanced our professional rescue capabilities to meet real-world needs. By doing so, we have effectively accelerated the integration, transformation and modernization of our fire and rescue service, significantly increasing our operational effectiveness.

To further advance our organizational structure, we have intensified the urban-rural fire and rescue network by planning and building fire and rescue stations, special-duty stations and government professional firefighting teams. We've also improved enterprises' professional firefighting teams and small-scale fire stations, while guiding localities to establish 24,000 new fire stations in towns and subdistricts, staffed by over 95,000 personnel. We have also formed mobile teams, dispatching over 4,900 servicemen to 20 provinces, achieving coverage across all provincial-level regions and enabling nationwide mobility for major disaster-relief efforts. We have established six state-level regional emergency response and rescue centers in Hebei, Heilongjiang, Hubei, Guangdong, Sichuan and Gansu provinces. These serve as regional aviation rescue bases, emergency supply centers, and elite rapid-response forces, meeting regional disaster and accident response needs. We have focused on strengthening specialized capabilities, establishing over 5,000 specialized rescue teams for scenarios such as high-rise buildings, underground facilities, large-span spaces, hazardous chemicals, earthquakes, water rescues, geological hazards, and ice and snow conditions. Special-duty teams, as well as fire and rescue units, have also been established and enhanced. Based on local needs, some localities have established specialized teams for mountain, ice field, and high-altitude rescues. We've also set up six cross-border forest firefighting and rescue units, as well as 12 special rescue corps. The operational areas of two aviation rescue teams, in Daqing and Kunming, now cover 10 provinces.

In terms of improving professional rescue capabilities, we have promoted the building of national, provincial and municipal earthquake and water rescue training bases, increased the training of special rescue talents and have trained more than 83,000 teachers and technical personnel. We have ramped up efforts to launch practical training as well as have held the fire and rescue professional skill competition for firefighters and the skill competition for fire rescue dogs. We have kept a close eye on both major disasters and extremely complex disasters, enhanced the sharing of information and the joint operation of forces, deepened on-site familiarization drills and expert-assisted decision-making, and have achieved integrated dispatch, command and coordinated emergency response. We have strengthened the application of new technological equipment, accelerated the upgrading of conventional equipment, promoted research and development of high-precision "trump card" equipment and intelligent equipment, as well as have developed practical application technology. Over the past five years, the professional rescue capabilities of our fire and rescue teams have steadily improved, especially in the rescue operations of major disasters and accidents such as the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted Jishishan county, Gansu province, the severe floods in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and the dike breach at the lake levee in Tuanzhou township, Hunan province, demonstrating the central role of the main force of emergency rescue and the national team.

Next, we will regard combat capability as the criterion, and rally firefighting forces and shoulder firefighting responsibilities to protect people's lives and property and promote economic and social high-quality development. Thank you.

Red Star News:

Improving the seismic resistance of buildings is one of the effective ways to reduce damage from earthquake. We have noticed that the China Earthquake Administration (CEA) is organizing the compilation of a next-generation seismic ground motion parameter zonation map to provide national standards for construction and anti-seismic design. Could you please brief us on the details of this project? Thank you.

Wang Daoxi:

I will invite Mr. Wang Kun to answer this question.

Wang Kun:

Thank you for your question. China is a country prone to earthquake disasters and has a very complex geological structure, so the risk of seismic activity varies significantly from region to region. Seismic ground motion parameter zonation is the division of territories into several zones according to the degree of earthquake hazard, and to set different earthquake fortification requirements for each zone. The seismic zoning map mainly provides standards for the planning, site selection and earthquake fortification of general construction projects, as well as a basis for economic and social development planning, territorial space planning, urban and rural planning and the formulation of social preventive measures, as well as emergency preparedness and response.

China has developed five generations of seismic ground motion parameter zonation maps since 1957. The first three generations of seismic zoning maps were used as "references" and "basis," and the fourth and fifth generations were used as "mandatory national standards." Therefore, it can be seen here that our earthquake fortification requirements are constantly improving. In 2022, the CEA officially launched the compilation of a new-generation seismic zoning map. The new-generation seismic zoning map takes risk prevention as the overall objective, featuring "multi-probability, broadband, high precision and integration of land and sea." It is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. At the same time, the revision of Seismic Ground Motion Parameter Zonation Map of China, a mandatory national standard, will commence. At present, all work is progressing smoothly. First, the collection and collation of basic data has been generally completed. I will elaborate here with some data. We have built a basic database containing 14,000 destructive earthquake catalogs, 230,000 small earthquake catalogs and 11,000 sets of strong vibration observation records of 1942 earthquakes in China and neighboring areas. Second, we have completed a national seismic tectonic environment analysis and potential seismic source division, as well as have carried out the construction of three-dimensional seismic source models in strong seismic zones, such as the Tangshan earthquake and the Tancheng earthquake. Third, we have established a series of key models such as seismic activity, seismic motion prediction and site seismic motion, and have built technical methods for seismic ground motion hazard calculations. Fourth, we have carried out integrated pilot projects with key models and technologies in representative areas such as the North China Plain as well as Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, and have completed the seismic hazard calculations in pilot areas.

The new ground motion parameter zoning map is expected to improve the country's seismic safety standards, based on lessons from the 6.2-magnitude earthquake in Gansu's Jishishan, the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Türkiye and the 7.3-magnitude earthquake in the Taiwan region's Hualien. For eastern China's supertall structures, densely populated large commercial complexes, and other facilities, we've placed greater emphasis on the effects of long-period ground motion and the amplification caused by deep sedimentary basin layers. In western China's regions with concentrated large fault zones, we've adopted a three-dimensional epicenter model and a corresponding ground motion model to more accurately assess seismic activity levels near active faults. In short, this new generation of zoning maps will give full play to scientific and technological innovation and the practical application of research outcomes. It will better serve earthquake resistance efforts in general construction projects and formulation of various response plans, while effectively supporting earthquake disaster risk identification, assessment, and the development of a more earthquake-resilient society. Thank you.

The Poster News APP:

At the beginning of this year, the Work Safety Committee of the State Council issued the Measures on Prevention and Containment of Major and Serious Workplace Accidents in Mines. Could you please provide an update on the implementation of these measures? Thank you.

Wang Daoxi:

Mr. Huang will answer your question.

Huang Jinsheng:

Thank you for your concern about mine safety. Since the beginning of this year, the Ministry of Emergency Management and the National Mine Safety Administration have prioritized implementing measures nationwide and carried out special campaigns on regulation learning, responsibility clarification, solid implementation and safety assurance. We asked relevant departments to bear their responsibilities and implement the measures precisely, which effectively promoted stable and improved safety conditions in the country's mines. No major or serious workplace accidents occurred in mines after the measures' introduction. Through the end of August, the number of workplace accidents in mines and the death toll from those accidents decreased by 25.6% and 31.99%, respectively.

In terms of safety responsibility, we refined tasks for responsible parties, clarifying 15 tasks for enterprises, 15 for supervision departments, 15 for state administration, and six for local Party committees and governments, and guided them in implementing these tasks.

In terms of disaster risk prevention and control, we published a list of 1,128 mines with serious disaster risks, conducted special inspections of hidden hazards at 2,122 mines and carried out specialized water damage prevention inspections at 821 mines. By doing so, we identified and addressed 11,257 major potential safety hazards. Additionally, evacuation protocols during extreme weather warnings, evacuating 130,000 miners. We spared no effort to prevent major disasters and accidents.

In terms of cracking down on illegal activities, we carried out special inspections targeting concealed workplaces in coal mines, suspending operations in 725 places nationwide. During a campaign targeting security monitoring system fraud, 291 enterprises were exposed, 3,582 enterprises and 8,533 people in charge of enterprises were admonished, and 399 people were prosecuted.

In terms of improving safety awareness, we organized video training courses on workplace safety in mines, with more than 13,000 people participating and more than 700,000 studying online. These efforts enhanced safety production awareness among workers.

In terms of national mine safety supervision, we conducted safety oversight in Shanxi and Heilongjiang provinces. This effort led to the implementation of 388 and 68 new regulatory measures in these provinces, respectively. The mine safety supervision system carried out 5,558 governmental oversight actions, issued 2,069 rectification letters and supervisory recommendations, and admonished 1,697 people, which showcased the significance of national supervision in mines.

Mining remains a crucial yet hazardous industry with significant safety challenges, given its inherent high risks and fragile foundation. Looking forward, we will follow the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will advance the reform and development of workplace safety in mines by solving problems in individual cases and across the whole industrial chain. Workplace safety improvements will ensure a stable and secure supply of energy and mineral resources, supporting the country's high-quality economic and social development. Thank you.

China News Service:

In 2018, the CEA launched the China Seismic Experimental Site (CSES) project to study earthquake formation patterns in the country. Could you please provide an update on the progress of this project? How has its construction leveraged the supportive role of seismic science and technology, and how is it helping to modernize earthquake prevention and disaster alleviation? Thank you.

Wang Kun:

Thank you for your interest. The International Conference for the Decade Memory of the Wenchuan Earthquake was held on May 12. 2018. President Xi Jinping sent a letter to the conference, emphasizing the importance of scientifically understanding the laws of disasters and effectively reducing disaster risks. The central government also announced the construction of the CSES at the conference. The CEA's leading Party members group has firmly implemented the spirit of General Secretary Xi Jinping's letter, along with the disaster prevention, mitigation, and relief concept of "Two Commitments and Three Shifts." We are committed to integrating preventive efforts with disaster resistance and relief measures, while balancing regular mitigation and non-regular relief operations. This concept emphasizes a shift from post-disaster relief to pre-disaster prevention, from addressing single types of disasters to comprehensive mitigation, and from merely reducing losses to minimizing risks. Keeping in line with socioeconomic requirements and market rules and relying on science and technology, the CEA has strived to fulfill the overall goals of facilitating earthquake prediction, ensuring energy security, improving the resilience of cities, and mitigating disaster chains. Drawing on both domestic and international experiences, we are sparing no efforts to advance the construction of the CSES. 

The CSES is a major sci-tech infrastructure project to be constructed during the 14th Five-Year Plan period and the world's only seismic research facility focused on systematic studies of strong continental earthquakes. In 2023, the budgetary estimates were approved, and construction is now in full swing. The plan is to build 1,769 observation stations across Sichuan and Yunnan. These stations will monitor seismic activity, ground deformation, geochemical changes, and gravity fluctuations. Once completed, the CSES will be able to identify potential earthquake sources that may induce 6.5-magnitude or stronger earthquakes in block boundary belts. 

While constructing the CSES, we've insisted on delivering outcomes and providing services. Since 2018, the project has produced 15 scientific results, such as high-precision velocity structure models and Mohorovičić discontinuity models. We collaborated with the University of Science and Technology of China to launch the world's first AI-powered earthquake monitoring system, capable of accurately estimating earthquake source mechanism parameters within one second. We've also developed an AI-based automatic earthquake cataloging system, which triples the efficiency of manual work. We recently partnered with the National Supercomputing Center in Chengdu, Tsinghua University and other institutions to release the world's first large-scale seismic wave model with over 100 million parameters. These achievements provide crucial sci-tech support for enhancing smart earthquake monitoring and prediction, as well as modernizing earthquake prevention and disaster mitigation efforts.

We are prioritizing openness and cooperation in the CSES's construction and operation. Scientists from 13 countries, including the U.S., Russia, the Netherlands, Egypt, and Algeria, have contributed to the CSES's scientific research. Research universities, such as Peking University, the University of Science and Technology of China, and the Southern University of Science and Technology, have collaborated with the provincial governments of Sichuan and Yunnan in the construction of the project. Over 3,000 experts from China and abroad have attended the CSES annual conferences for exchanges in recent years, enhancing the project's academic influence. 

China aims to become the global leader in earthquake science and technology by 2035. To achieve this goal, Chinese seismologists will uphold and advance the scientific spirit, develop the CSES into a global hub for seismology and international cooperation in earthquake science and technology, as well as a global talent pool in this field. Efforts will be intensified to enhance China's self-reliance and strength in earthquake science and technology, facilitating Chinese modernization by providing high-standard earthquake safety services. Thank you. 

Cover News:

What measures have been taken to tackle hidden fire safety risks in key sectors while promoting a preemptive approach to public security governance? What progress has been made? What do you plan to do next? Thank you.

Wang Daoxi:

Mr. Zhou will answer these questions.

Zhou Tian:

Thank you for the questions. Fire safety is a crucial component of public security and directly impacts people's daily lives and work. We consistently uphold the principle of "people-first, life-first," closely monitoring key areas and critical links and implementing effective measures to address hidden fire safety risks. 

In terms of formulating regulations and standards, we strengthened efforts to address problems at their source and improved fire safety-related regulations and standards. We issued 23 sets of fire safety regulations, including those on the management of social fire protection technical services, fire safety management in high-rise civil buildings, and trial measures for fire safety management in leased factories and warehouses. We ensured the implementation of fire safety-related responsibilities and made strict and clear requirements regarding fire safety management. In collaboration with market regulation and urban-rural development authorities, we issued 68 national standards and 35 industry-specific standards for fire safety. These include the general code for fire protection of buildings and constructions, guidelines for preparing and implementing firefighting and emergency evacuation plans for workplaces, and rules for fire safety management in large-scale commercial complexes, providing technical support for social fire safety management. 

Regarding specialized rectification, we have adopted a "whole-chain" supervision method to address pressing real-world issues, continuously advancing concentrated efforts to rectify safety hazards related to electric bicycles and fire protection products. Concurrently, we have inspected 955,000 high-rise buildings and addressed 488,800 identified hazards. We have advanced standardized fire safety management in large commercial complexes exceeding 50,000 square meters and checked risks in labor-intensive enterprises within industrial parks, factories and mixed-use business sites with multiple operations and ownerships. We launched a campaign to clear fire escape routes and addressed over 3.76 million issues related to blocked evacuation passages, emergency exits and fire lanes.

In terms of public awareness education and training, we have intensified our efforts to promote fire safety education in businesses, rural areas, communities, schools and homes. For example, we organized summer fire safety campaigns and livestreamed fire safety classes for primary and middle schools. We also partnered with postal departments to distribute fire safety materials to households. To address issues like the illegal transfer of contracts, subcontracting, unauthorized hot work, unsafe operations and chaotic on-site management, we produced three specialized fire safety training videos for manufacturing plants, medical institutions and dining establishments. These videos were widely distributed to relevant organizations for training purposes.

To empower organizations to better manage their own fire safety, we have developed fire prevention guidelines, inspection instructions and management regulations tailored to new sectors and emerging industries. We have provided model inspection training, on-site guidance, appointment-based training services and follow-up technical assistance to improve organizations' capabilities in identifying, checking and rectifying fire hazards. We have focused on high-risk areas such as small-scale businesses, mixed-use facilities, and densely populated areas. In these areas, we have focused on key personnel and emergency response teams in organizations, and conducted large-scale fire safety drills, promoting knowledge and skills needed for fire prevention and self-rescue.

Moving forward, we will continue to enhance our public safety system and strengthen our fire safety management capabilities. We aim to develop a comprehensive fire safety work method that involves various departments and encourages public participation. These efforts are designed to support and facilitate high-quality social and economic development. Thank you for your attention.

China Emergency Management News:

Developing intelligent mine is crucial in promoting high-quality development in the mining industry. What progress has China made in developing intelligent mines? What measures will be taken in the future? Thank you.

Huang Jinsheng:

Thank you for your interest in intelligent mine construction, which is a specific measure for implementing important proposals put forward by General Secretary Xi Jinping regarding new quality productive forces. It also serves as a crucial means of shifting mine safety management towards a more proactive and preventive approach. In recent years, we have implemented a series of measures and introduced many policies to foster significant advancements in intelligent mine construction. 

To enhance top-level design, this April, the National Mine Safety Administration, in conjunction with the Ministry of Emergency Management, the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Education, issued the Guidelines on Accelerating Intelligent Mine Development and Enhancing Mine Safety. This document provides a systematic plan from a top-level design perspective.

To strengthen technological innovation, we have approved the establishment of five key laboratories related to intelligent mines under the National Mine Safety Administration. We have coordinated to list five projects, such as intelligent tunneling and open-pit autonomous mining, in key national research and development programs. We have also advanced collaboration among mine enterprises, equipment enterprises, universities, and research institutes and achieved breakthroughs in research of key technologies and equipment.

To ensure standard-led development, we have released a system framework for intelligent mine standards and guided relevant departments to set up and revise related standards and specifications. We have issued a specification for intelligent mine data fusion and sharing, which has broken down data silos and eliminated information barriers.

In terms of increasing policy incentives, we have promoted support with approved increase of coal production capacity, the standardization of workplace safety, the central government budget for investment and the withdrawal and use of enterprise workplace safety expenses, and have advanced the inclusion of intelligent equipment in the scope of support for large-scale equipment renewal.

In terms of adhering to demonstration and guidance, we have worked with the National Energy Administration to launch the construction of intelligent demonstration coal mines and have worked with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology to solicit and announce two batches of 92 typical application scenarios for mining robots. In recent years, a number of typical cases have emerged, such as the Yujialiang Coal Mine of CHN Energy, the Dahaize Coal Mine of China Coal Group, the Sanshandao Gold Mine of Shandong Gold Group and the Xingshan Iron Mine of Shougang Mining Corporation.

With joint efforts from all parties, positive progress has been made in the intelligent construction of mines. By far, the country has built 1,642 intelligent mining workings, the number of coal mines with intelligent workings has reached 859, with over 30 kinds of 2,640 robots and 1,328 unmanned vehicles in use, as well as 17,000 fixed positions achieving unmanned operations.

In the next step, we will continue to offer more support in terms of policy standards, scientific and technological innovation as well as the application of demonstration, so as to advance the intelligent construction of mines to a new level and to lay an important foundation for the intrinsic safety of mines. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

Phoenix Satellite Television:

As we all know, this year, affected by extreme weather, many areas in China have been hit by rainstorms and floods, with some areas seriously affected. What targeted measures have been adopted by the National Commission for Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief and the Ministry of Emergency Management (MEM) in regards to disaster relief and assistance? What appropriate arrangements and assistance have disaster victims received? Thank you.

Wang Daoxi:

Thanks to the reporter from Phoenix Satellite Television for your concern and attention to flood prevention and resistance and disaster relief. As you mentioned, this year's climate trends deviated from the average level of normal years. There were many heavy rainfalls, lasting for extended periods of time. Flooding of rivers occurred early and developed rapidly. Floods, hailstorms and geological disasters severely affected a wide range of areas and caused heavy losses to certain areas. Therefore, the task of disaster relief and assistance is very arduous. To ensure that disaster victims receive appropriate arrangements and assistance, the National Commission for Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief and the MEM have mainly taken the following targeted measures, which can be summarized as "three focuses."

First, we have focused on disaster prediction and activated disaster relief responses in an efficient and orderly manner. Before the flood season, we have actively advanced the building of a disaster relief planning system, strengthened the professional training of disaster relief and disaster information delivery teams, enhanced the pre-positioning of disaster relief materials to the front line of rural areas and have improved the disaster relief and assistance capacity at the grassroot level. During disasters, we have predicted development trends of disasters as well as needs for disaster relief and assistance, activating disaster relief emergency response in advance. The national disaster relief response has been activated for a total of 21 times this year. After disasters, we have dynamically adjusted response levels according to changes in disaster situations and have upgraded response levels for five times, especially in response to the disaster situation in Hunan, we promptly upgraded the disaster relief response to the second level. We have given a coordinating role to the National Commission for Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief, stepped up joint consultations and assessments and have organized and dispatched joint working groups to key cities and counties deeply affected by disasters and facing difficulties in relief efforts to offer guidance and help for disaster relief and post-disaster recovery and reconstruction. Overall, our response to disaster relief has become more timely, more frequent and involves more practical measures, continuing to send a strong signal that "the country is in action."

Second, we have focused on the needs of disaster-hit areas and quickly allocated central disaster relief funds and materials. Since the beginning of the flood season, we have worked with the Ministry of Finance to allocate nine batches of 3.125 billion yuan for central disaster relief funds in advance, which fully ensures the urgent need for disaster relief with higher allocation efficiency and greater support for disaster relief. We have also coordinated central and local reserve resources and worked with the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration to allocate 21 batches of 473,200 pieces of central disaster relief materials, including folding beds, bedding and family emergency kits, to meet the needs of the public at the different stages of temporary refuge, relocation and transitional resettlement. In response to disaster conditions in various areas and urgent needs of the people, we have repeatedly activated the government-society coordinated support mechanism for emergency supplies and have allocated a large supply of food, daily necessities and other scarce materials to better ensure people's basic livelihood. 

Third, we have focused on key links and have worked at the front line to strengthen supervision and guidance. We have organized a number of inspection groups, expert groups and steering groups to coordinate and resolve difficulties and problems on the spot, publicized and explained assistance policies face to face and guided local governments to carry out disaster relief and assistance work. In particular, we have paid close attention to the management and services of resettlement sites, guided the orderly organization of material distribution and have strived to ensure basic necessities such as food and lodging for disaster victims, especially ensuring that there is food, water, clothing, temporary safe shelter and access to timely medical treatment. In addition, we have also coordinated to provide medical, cultural and psychological services to help disaster victims feel secure and comfortable. We have also seen in many resettlement sites that in spite of suffering disasters, the people have actively helped themselves and each other, and some have even willingly participated in volunteer services, which is very touching. At present, the post-disaster recovery and reconstruction work is in rapid progress, including emergency repair of infrastructure in disaster-hit areas and reconstruction and repair of collapsed and damaged housing. We will continue to follow up and strengthen guidance. I believe that with the joint efforts of all parties, disaster-hit areas will promptly be rebuilt into beautiful homes! Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Well, today's briefing is hereby concluded. Thanks to all speakers and friends from the media. Goodbye everyone.

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Wang Wei, Liu Caiyi, Liu Sitong, Li Xiao, Ma Yujia, Yan Bin, Yuan Fang, Lin Liyao, Zhang Junmian, Liu Qiang, Xu Kailin, Liu Jianing, Li Huiru, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Li Chunlin, vice chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC)

Mr. Li Fei, vice minister of commerce

Mr. Ren Duanping, director general of the Business Registration Bureau of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR)

Mr. Wang Shancheng, director general of the Department of Comprehensive System Reform of the NDRC

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 30, 2024 

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this briefing held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). The Opinions on Refining the National Market Access System issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council has been publicly released. Today, we have invited Mr. Li Chunlin, vice chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), and Mr. Li Fei, vice minister of commerce, to introduce the relevant information of the opinions and answer your questions. Also attending today's press conference are Mr. Ren Duanping, director general of the Business Registration Bureau of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), and Mr. Wang Shancheng, director general of the Department of Comprehensive System Reform of the NDRC.

Now, I will give the floor to Mr. Li for his introduction.

Li Chunlin:

Good morning. Thank you very much for your long-term interest in and support for the development and reform work. I am also very pleased to have this opportunity to speak with you today on refining the national market access system.

As an important document for implementing the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, the General Office of the CPC Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council recently issued the Opinions on Refining the National Market Access System, the full text of which was released to the public on Aug. 21. Now, I will briefly introduce the background, significance and main content of the opinions.

Market access is a prerequisite for business entities to participate in economic activities. Implementing a unified market access system is a major decision and deployment made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. The third plenary session of the 18th CPC Central Committee proposed the implementation of a unified market access system, the 19th CPC National Congress clearly stated the need to implement a negative list system across the board for market access, and the 20th CPC National Congress further identified the market access system as one of the basic systems of the market economy. In recent years, the NDRC, together with the Ministry of Commerce, the SAMR, and other relevant departments, has resolutely implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, steadily promoting the development of the market access system. In 2018, the nationwide unified negative list for market access was issued, making China the first major economy to truly establish such a system. Four versions of the list have been released, with the number of items reduced from 151 in the 2018 version to 117 in the 2022 version, firmly establishing the "one list nationwide" management model for market access. Efforts have been made to further relax market access restrictions, with special measures implemented in Hainan, Shenzhen, the Guangdong-Macao in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin, and Nansha in Guangzhou. A series of substantial reform measures have been introduced in areas such as commercial aerospace, international trading centers for electronic components and integrated circuits, unmanned systems in sea, land and air, and the modern seed industry. Market access efficiency evaluations have been carried out to promote reforms and improve the quality and efficiency of access services, ensuring the implementation of the market access system. Overall, the current market access system framework has been accelerated, supporting systems have been gradually improved, market access barriers have been effectively broken, and market dynamism and vitality have been further stimulated. This provides strong support for building a high-standard market system, a unified national market, and a high-standard socialist market economy.

As China enters a stage of high-quality development, higher requirements have been put forward for building a more refined market access system. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee clearly required "refining the market access system to ensure greater accessibility for new forms of business and new sectors" and "doing more to remove barriers to market access." The opinions implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session, timely elevating the reform achievements of the market access-related systems and mechanisms to institutional arrangements, attracting widespread attention from society. This is also the first policy document issued at the central level specifically on improving the development of the market access system, which has important guiding significance.

The full text of the opinions consists of 10 articles, around 2,300 words, and is concise but rich in content. It revolves around "establishing an open, transparent, standardized and orderly market access system that fosters fair competition, clear rights and responsibilities, and robust oversight," making the latest deployments in aspects such as improving the management model of the negative list for market access, scientifically determining market access rules, setting reasonable market prohibition and permission access items, clarifying the adjustment procedures for market access management measures, strengthening the coordination of domestic and foreign investment access policies, orderly relaxing restrictions on access to the service industry, optimizing the market access environment for new business forms and new fields, expanding pilot programs for market access relaxation, ensuring the implementation of the market access system and enhancing organizational implementation. There are four highlights in the opinions:

First, we will continue improving list management to clarify the boundaries of government roles. The negative list mechanism serves as a critical tool for enhancing the market access system. It's essential to clearly define the government's role in market access, fully leverage the market's decisive role in resource allocation, and solidify these principles into a systematic framework. This approach expedites the shift from pre-approval to ongoing and post-event supervision. The opinions reinforce support for the "one list nationwide" model, addressing access rules, the determination of access items, and the procedures for adjusting access measures. This unified approach ensures the list's consistency, standardization, and authority, promoting more regulated market access management and better ensuring lawful and equal market entry for all business entities.

Second, we'll continue easing access restrictions to invigorate market potential and vitality. Market access is the first gateway to economic activity, and it's essential to progressively loosen these restrictions to facilitate the smooth flow of resources and foster a broader market space. We will implement a policy of easier entry coupled with strict oversight, opening up competitive sectors and significantly reducing access barriers for businesses. Furthermore, we will systematically ease access restrictions in the service sector. In particular, we will gradually cancel restrictions in those service industries that do not involve national security or social stability concerns, where robust market competition can improve the quality of supply.

Third, we will continue optimizing the market access environment and enhancing market entry efficiency. Market access is crucial for translating scientific and technological advances into productivity. We need to take a forward-looking approach in establishing a market access framework for new business models and sectors to better support the development of new quality productive forces. For the first time, the opinions target 10 emerging fields, including deep-water exploration, aerospace, aviation, life sciences, new energy, and artificial intelligence. This initiative encompasses guiding principles, platform support, the application and commercialization of research outcomes, and global research collaboration. Together, these efforts aim to tackle bottlenecks inhibiting the profound transformation and upgrading of our industrial systems, promoting innovative allocation of production factors and continuously boosting market access efficiency.

Fourth, we will continue expanding pilot programs for market access and dismantling implicit barriers to entry. It's vital to leverage reform trials and employ special policy tools to break down entry barriers in certain sectors and areas. The opinions require that we make deployments focusing on key areas and key productive forces in strategic emerging industries and future industries. We will use regulations, policies, technical standards, testing and certification, and data systems to remove various entry barriers, promoting the adoption of new technologies and products. Priority regions will be selected for market access trials, with phased special measures to ease access.

Moving forward, the NDRC, in collaboration with relevant departments, will implement the opinions and strengthen overall coordination. We will continue to refine the market access system, further optimize the access environment, and bolster development expectations. Our goal is to rapidly establish a new paradigm featuring "standard-driven access, list-based access, scenario-enhanced access, pilot-expanded access and regulation-backed access."

That concludes my introduction. Now, my colleagues and I are ready to answer questions. Thank you!

Xing Huina: 

Now, you may raise your hand to ask questions. Please identify the news organization you represent before asking.

CCTV:

We have noticed that the opinions lay out clear requirements for enhancing the negative list management model concerning market access. Could you share the key considerations behind this? What is the current progress on revising the updated edition of the market access negative list? Thank you.

Li Chunlin:

Thank you for the questions from the CCTV reporter. I am very glad to answer these questions. The market access negative list system and the revision of the list have attracted close attention from society. The negative list for market access clearly outlines sectors, fields and businesses that are off limit for investors and items which require government approval for market entry in our country. Governments at all levels take corresponding management measures in accordance with the law for matters involving market access. All types of business entities can fairly enter the sectors, fields and businesses not on the list in accordance with the law. Since the full implementation of the market access negative list system in 2018, the negative list has continued to shorten. As I mentioned, it has been reduced from 151 items to 117 items. The benefits of reform continue to increase with the list having undergone four dynamic revisions. The items have been reduced by about 60% compared with the pilot version. A large number of market entry restrictions in many fields such as elderly care and medical care have been loosened. Various market entities have more vitality and greater space to develop the economy and create wealth, so that the decisive role of the market in allocating resources can be fully exerted. At the same time, with the full implementation of the list, some new difficulties have also emerged. For example, the rules and standards for the establishment and adjustment of access measures are not sound enough, and there are still many barriers of various types at all levels to market access. The opinions adhere to a problem-oriented approach and make corresponding institutional arrangements.

In terms of improving "one list nationwide" management for market access, the opinions clearly state that all types of national access catalogs that have been compiled according to requirements, as well as industrial, investment, environmental and territorial space plans and other matters involving market access, shall be included in the negative list management. The national access system shall be promoted to strengthen integration and connection, intensify system integration and strive to achieve horizontal and vertical coverage. At the same time, the opinions state that it is strictly prohibited to establish access permits and add access conditions in breach of regulations and independently formulate negative lists for market access beyond the national negative list, or set up access barriers in the process of franchising, designated operation, testing and certification in violation of rules. In recent years, the NDRC has worked with relevant departments to clean up and cancel more than 20 negative lists related to market access set up in violation of regulations in various places, and the institutional rigidity has been continuously enhanced.

In terms of improving rules for market access, the opinions, for the first time, categorize and clarify the corresponding access rules according to the nature of different sectors and fields. For fully competitive fields, we implement wide access and strict management, and significantly reduce access restrictions. For fields involving national security, lifeblood of the national economy, layout of major productive forces, strategic resources development and major public interests, access restrictions can be set, but they must be carried out in accordance with laws and regulations. For new forms of businesses and new sectors, we respect the characteristics of their development, plan corresponding access systems in a forward-looking manner and better promote the development of new quality productive forces. For example, during the revision of the negative list for market access in recent years, a number of management measures, such as qualification licensing of firefighting technical service organizations, issuance of security training permits and permits for the establishment of nursing homes, have been canceled in succession. At the same time, access management is also implemented for important sectors such as financial holding companies in accordance with the law, which exemplifies this concept. 

In terms of improving the adjustment procedures for market access measures, the opinions detail specific requirements such as prohibition of entry and permission for access, as well as further propose that before adding or adjusting market access management measures the competent authorities should first conduct policy assessments and then apply for amendments to laws and regulations in accordance with legal procedures. Temporary access measures may be taken when major sudden risks to economic operation may occur, but they must be reported to the CPC Central Committee and the State Council for approval, which effectively strengthens the sanctity of the setting and adjustment of access policies. This also avoids the situation where individual departments or localities arbitrarily stop market access in certain areas, which is conducive to stabilizing market expectations.

These latest requirements put forward in the opinions have clarified the direction for the subsequent adjustment and implementation of the negative list for market access. Regarding the revision of the negative list for market access, the NDRC is currently working with the Ministry of Commerce, the SAMR and other relevant departments to promote the revision of the list in an orderly manner. The revised version has been formed and will be issued and implemented after approval in accordance with the prescribed procedures. The new version of the list will fully implement the requirements of the opinions as well as closely connect with the reform of the administrative approval system, the reform separating operation permits from business licenses and the new round of institutional reforms, promoting further reduction of items on the list and releasing more reform momentum for high-quality development. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald: 

We have noticed that the phenomenon of "money can't buy satisfactory services" still exists. Could you please tell us what key measures will be taken next in terms of relaxing access to the service industry and improving the institutions and mechanisms for its development? Thank you.

Li Fei: 

Thank you for your question. I will answer this question. The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China has made important arrangements for refining the institutions and mechanisms for developing the service sector. The service industry is a crucial part of the national economy, a key support for the modern industrial system and a major player in driving economic growth, providing jobs, expanding investment, promoting consumption and improving people's livelihoods. In recent years, the Ministry of Commerce with relevant departments has continuously improved the policy system for the development of the service sector, and promoted the high-quality development of services in key areas, so as to meet the needs of industrial transformation and upgrading as well as the people's aspiration for a better life.

At present, the overall development of China's service industry shows signs of positive stability with service consumption maintaining rapid growth, investment in key areas expanding at an accelerated pace and service trade growing rapidly. However, challenges still remain, such as unsatisfying supply quality, untapped consumption potential and weak international competitiveness. Moving forward, we will work closely with relevant departments to focus on the following key areas:

In terms of continuously relaxing control over market access in the service sector, the opinions have made directional and targeted arrangements for relaxing market access, proposing to gradually remove access restrictions in service industries that do not involve national security or social stability and where sufficient market competition can enhance supply quality. At the same time, we will continue to ensure greater accessibility for business entities, eliminate unreasonable access restrictions and remove illegally set entry barriers.

In terms of accelerating the establishment of a new system of high-quality and efficient services, we will promote better alignment between supply and demand, foster high-quality development of service consumption, optimize supply, improve quality, enrich consumption scenarios and cultivate new growth points for consumption.

In terms of further promoting the deep integration of advanced manufacturing and modern services, we will focus on key links, propel high-quality development of producer services on a sector-by-sector basis and enhance the specialized, commercial and comprehensive service capabilities that target the manufacturing industry.

In terms of strengthening and refining service brands, we will cultivate producer service brands with international competitiveness, create service brands with high quality, strong innovation momentum and leading roles as well as leverage brand building to drive new growth in the service consumption market, thereby unleashing new consumption potential.

Thank you！

China News Service: 

We have noticed that previous pilot projects to relax market access were mainly carried out through the formation of special measures, such as the special measures introduced for Hainan, Shenzhen, the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin and Nansha in Guangzhou. Could you brief us on the progress of these market access relaxation pilot projects and any considerations for the next step? Thank you.

Wang Shancheng: 

Thank you for your question. The opinions clearly state that efforts should be made to expand the scope of pilot projects for relaxing market access. The main considerations are as follows: on the one hand, the number of items included in the negative list for market access remains relatively high, and some items that are not yet ready to be fully opened nationwide need to be explored through pilot projects. On the other hand, market access policies for new business forms and new sectors also need to be continuously refined through pilot projects. By selecting certain regions to carry out these projects, we aim to promote the development of a more flexible and efficient market access policy system, gradually relaxing access and optimizing the environment in relevant sectors.

Since 2021, we have selected Hainan, Shenzhen, the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, and Nansha in Guangzhou to continue pilot programs to expand market access. We have used special measures to relax market access as a key strategy, introducing a series of specific measures in fields such as healthcare, finance, transportation, culture and education. We have effectively relaxed requirements for market access in areas like data property, aerospace, electronic components, integrated circuits, deep sea exploration and the modern seed industry. Major progress has been made in stimulating the vitality of business entities and facilitating the flow of production factors. For example, in Hainan, we proposed improving the market accessibility in the commercial aerospace sector and easing market access to spaceport construction. The first two commercial space rocket launch pads in Hainan are nearing completion, and several major industrial projects have been introduced, greatly promoting the country's commercial aerospace sector. Another example is the pilot program for developing unmanned systems for land, sea and air in Hengqin, Nansha in Guangzhou and Hefei in Anhui. This initiative has achieved the "six unifications" in standard systems, data centers, operational management and control, testing and certification, communication protocols, and policies and regulations. This has effectively removed market access barriers such as operational systems, airspace planning, data security and scenario openings. This lays a foundation for the wider application of unmanned systems across land, sea and air in larger regions and even nationwide.

Moving forward, we will implement the requirements of the opinions, increase efforts to pilot expanded market access and quickly gain reform experiences that can be replicated and promoted. 

First, we will conduct trials to allow access to new business formats and fields. Focusing on strategic emerging industries, key areas of future industries, and the layout of major productive forces, we will introduce additional market access measures for deep sea exploration, healthcare, new energy, and artificial intelligence. We will actively explore more efficient and streamlined access mechanisms, promote the application of innovative achievements in key areas, and improve overall market access efficiency.

Second, we will optimize the management of market access procedures. We will further simplify access procedures and optimize the approval process. When excessive approval conditions affect market entry, we will simplify the conditions through pilot programs. At the same time, through pilot projects, we will explore establishing a comprehensive regulatory system that aligns with relaxed market access policies. We aim to accelerate the formation of a framework combining government regulation, enterprise consciousness, industry self-discipline and social supervision.

Third, we will increase efforts to replicate and promote successful pilot experiences. The opinions require effective implementation of deployed special measures to relax market access, policy evaluation, and promotion of successful experiences. Recently, we have conducted evaluations and supervision of the special measures in Hainan and Shenzhen. We will promote and apply some mature pilot experiences and measures that can be replicated on a wider scale. Thank you.

Chengdu.cn:

My question is for the SAMR. What effective measures will it take to further improve the market access system, especially the registration and management system for business entities? Thank you.

Ren Duanping:

Thank you for your question. Market access is the prerequisite for economic entities to participate in economic activities, and the registration management system of business entities is the basis and key content of market access. The SAMR has thoroughly implemented the principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We've adopted practical measures, actively promoted the improvement of the basic market economy system, accelerated the construction of a unified national market, and continued to improve the market access system. We've focused on deepening the reform of the business registration system based on subscribed registered capital, ensuring that subscriptions are paid on time as stipulated by law. We've deepened reform in key areas with an innovative spirit, strengthened system integration, reduced institutional costs of market access, and promoted a more mature and better-defined registration management system. This has spurred the innovation vitality and internal driving force of business entities, creating a first-rate business environment that is market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized.

Next, we will implement the opinions of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council on refining the national market access system, focusing on three aspects of work.

First, we will continue to deepen the reform of the business registration system based on subscribed registered capital. We will thoroughly implement the Company Law of the People's Republic of China and the State Council's provisions on the implementation of the Registration Management System for Registered Capital of the Company Law of the People's Republic of China. We will guide newly established enterprises to reasonably determine subscription terms in accordance with the law, steadily adjust the capital contribution terms of existing companies as per legal requirements, and promptly correct any obvious abnormal situations regarding companies' capital contribution periods and amounts. We will introduce measures for implementing company registration management, which will legally clarify the criteria and procedures for determining obvious abnormalities in registered capital, conditions and requirements for exempting and adjusting capital contribution terms, and separate register management. In high-security risk areas, we will work with relevant departments to study and establish legally classified scopes, proportions, and periods for paid-in registered capital. We will improve the management system for non-corporate market entities to ensure timely capital contributions in accordance with the law. We will accelerate the construction of a unified national registration system for market entities and strengthen smart access.

Second, we will continue to improve the legal framework for business entity registration. We will adhere to the new development philosophy, balancing development and security, vitality and order, and efficiency and fairness. We will maintain goal-oriented, problem-oriented, and reform-oriented approaches. We will accelerate the research and formulation of a basic legal system for business entity registration in accordance with the law. This will include clarifying the basic principles of registration management and unifying basic legal concepts and terms. We will also improve institutions and rules for managing business registrations, transfers, names, and leasing and contracting of market entities. Additionally, we will tighten legal penalties for business entity fraud. We will promote institutional innovation, fill institutional gaps, and develop legal systems and rules that effectively align with prevailing international commercial rules.

Finally, we will strictly enforce regulations against unfair competition and market intervention. We will advance both ex-ante measures and ex-post punishments, regulation and law enforcement, publicity and advocacy, and the correction of typical cases alongside institutional strengthening. These efforts will comprehensively remove market access barriers. We will strengthen supervision over both monopolistic and competitive businesses carried out by natural monopoly enterprises. This oversight aims to prevent these enterprises from abusing their dominant market positions in upstream and downstream competitive areas or from excluding or restricting market competition in these sectors. By focusing on the concerns of the public and businesses, we will advance anti-monopoly law enforcement to stop the abuse of administrative power that eliminates or restricts competition. Additionally, we will strictly implement the fair competition review system and resolutely rectify improper market interventions. These include the abuse of administrative power to restrict transaction partners or exclude and restrict business operators from bidding processes and other business activities. These efforts aim to remove restrictions and hindrances to market access for all entities.

That's all. Thank you.

Economic Daily:

To our knowledge, the NDRC has guided 10 provinces, including Yunnan, Guangdong and Fujian, in conducting pilot evaluations of market access effectiveness. The opinions proposed conducting evaluations of market access effectiveness nationwide. Could you talk about the relevant considerations and details?

Wang Shancheng:

Thank you for your question. Market access is key to balancing an efficient market with an effective government. The purpose of conducting market access evaluations is twofold. First, it aims to enhance the government's governance capacity by assessing the implementation of the market access policies and encouraging local governments to perform their duties efficiently in accordance with the law. Second, it focuses on improving market entry efficiency for businesses. By evaluating the environment for market access in various regions, we can promptly remove barriers, ensuring that all kinds of business entities can enter the market efficiently and smoothly.

Since 2021, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council have made important arrangements for establishing and implementing a market access effectiveness evaluation system. The NDRC has guided pilot evaluations in 10 provinces, including Fujian, Yunnan, Ningxia, Shanghai and Guangdong. After three years of exploration, these pilot regions have made significant progress in market access effectiveness evaluation. For example, Yunnan has evaluated the market access effectiveness of 16 prefectures (cities) and 129 counties (cities and districts), forming a provincial effectiveness index. Yunnan has actively promoted excellence through evaluation, and participants' scores have steadily improved, with positive feedback from business entities. The evaluation results have directly promoted adjustment and improvement in policies related to local tourism and reduced market access barriers. Anhui province has explored an evaluation model that considers both administrative bodies and business entities. The province has developed an indicator system tailored to the Yangtze River Delta region, and vigorously promoted "imperceptible" evaluation by constructing an information platform, improving access efficiency and ensuring the fairness of evaluation results. At present, the conditions for comprehensive performance evaluation are largely in place. A national general version of the index system has been developed, consisting of 18 indexes in five aspects, including the construction of a market access system, the removal of market access barriers, the implementation of access supervision, organizational mechanism guarantees, and the effectiveness of system implementation. A working model has been formed under the guidance of national ministries and commissions, with provincial (autonomous region, municipality) governments as evaluation subjects and municipal and county governments as evaluation objects, laying the foundation for the nationwide promotion of such evaluations.

Next, according to the arrangements made in the opinions, we will comprehensively carry out an evaluation of market access effectiveness. In terms of a timeline, we will further expand the scope of evaluation this year, and starting next year, we will aim to gradually achieve full coverage of market access effectiveness evaluations, making the evaluations a regular practice. Regarding evaluation indicators, the indicator system will consist of "common national indicators + specific regional indicators." The common national indicators will be uniformly formulated and published by the NDRC, while the region-specific indicators will be set by each locality based on their actual conditions to appropriately reflect local characteristics, thereby encouraging grassroots reform and innovation. As for the evaluation results, we will strictly implement relevant requirements. The results will primarily serve as a reference for localities in building market access systems, with a clear directive to avoid rankings and prevent any burden on localities or primary-level organizations in this regard. Through effectiveness evaluations, we aim to comprehensively reflect and scientifically assess the market access environment in various regions, thereby ensuring the solid implementation of market access system requirements and continuously improving the government's standardized and scientific management of market access. Thank you!

Science and Technology Daily: 

The Resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee specifically mentions that we should "ensure greater accessibility for new forms of business and new sectors." We noticed that a special section in the opinions is dedicated to this, introducing many new highlights and concepts, with several pertaining to the frontier area of new quality productive forces. Could you elaborate on the considerations behind this?

Li Chunlin: 

Thank you for your question. I am a regular reader of Science and Technology Daily. The question that you raise concerning new quality productive forces is indeed very specialized. As you mentioned, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee explicitly states the need to "ensure greater accessibility for new forms of business and new sectors," making special arrangements for the core issue of improving the market access system. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately grasp this key task and ensure that we align with standards and benchmarks in its implementation.

Currently, the new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation is developing rapidly, with disruptive technologies iterating and upgrading swiftly. However, there are still unclear access rules in some new forms of business and new sectors, with issues such as overly strict access management and a need for optimization in the access environment becoming increasingly prominent. Therefore, it is urgent to improve the relevant access systems and to relax access restrictions in an orderly manner in order to better promote the development of new forms of business and new sectors.

Let me give you an example: the low-altitude economy. Currently, many regions across the country are vying to develop the low-altitude economy. However, the development of the low-altitude economy brings about a series of issues, such as safety concerns, industry standards for products and regulations regarding flight access. For instance, what are the regulations like? What are the application scenarios? What is the development path for the industry? Though a prominent representative of new quality productive forces, the low-altitude economy could lead to issues like indiscriminate flying without proper regulations. Therefore, it is necessary to relax access restrictions in an orderly manner in order to better promote the development of new forms of business and new sectors. For instance, Article 7 of the opinions clearly outlines policy arrangements for optimizing the market access environment for new forms of business and new sectors, with many noteworthy measures:

First, regarding the optimization of access management methods, the opinions clearly state that with 10 new forms of business and new sectors, namely deep sea, aerospace, aviation, life and health, new energy, artificial intelligence, autonomic and trusted computing, information security, intelligent rail transit and modern seed industry, we should develop and implement specific plans to optimize the market environment for each field, promoting innovative allocation of production factors and improving access efficiency. The market access management for new forms of business and new sectors cannot simply follow the traditional administrative approval-based management model but should fully leverage market mechanisms. It should be guided by standards and scenarios to create a more flexible and resilient access management mechanism. Following the principle of "standards guiding, scenario opening, market driving, industry focusing and system upgrading," we should further optimize the access methods for new forms of business and new sectors. In the early stages of development, new forms of business and new sectors need nurturing, which requires providing appropriate application scenarios. Without application scenarios, there is no industrial development. Without standards, the industry will face various problems. In fact, this hinders the healthy, high-quality and rapid development of the industry to a certain extent. Therefore, it is essential to carry out top-level design and provide principles and pathways.

Second, is refining the innovation application mechanism. Currently, a large number of innovations struggle to reach the market due to many barriers between innovative achievements and the industrial system. Therefore, refining the innovation application mechanism is a critical aspect in improving market access, which is key to effectively bridging the gap between technology and the economy. The opinions propose leveraging promotion centers for advanced technology application and various innovation platforms for scientific and technological achievements application. It also calls for facilitating a smooth flow of industrial systems, innovation resources, capital, application scenarios and policy systems, thereby promoting the transformation of original, disruptive sci-tech innovations into actual productivity. For instance, under the policy of expanding market access, it clarifies that promotion centers for international advanced technology application can be established in comprehensive national science centers and international scientific innovation centers. The first such center, the International Advanced Technology Application Promotion Center in Hefei, Anhui province, was officially inaugurated in November 2022, with its board set to be established next month. The center has made notable progress in reforming the comprehensive allocation of new production factors such as technology, data, computing power, airspace and scenarios. Meanwhile, similar centers in Shanghai’s Pudong, Shenzhen and Guangzhou are also rapidly advancing. The opinions also call for fostering a market access environment for the application of innovations in frontier technology fields, and leading the application and standard development of all-space unmanned systems across land, sea and air. Additionally, the opinions advocate expediting the development of market access policy systems in areas such as green energy, and actively broadening market access for digital products. We will ensure the implementation of these key tasks while also providing experience and setting examples for innovation application in other frontier fields.

Finally, is refining the coordination of innovation resources. The opinions focus on key areas such as electronic information, computational science, deep-sea exploration, aviation and aerospace, new energy, new materials, biomedicine, quantum technology and the modern seed industry. The goal is to promote the establishment of collaborative research models in these cutting-edge fields by key enterprises, research institutions and related localities. Moreover, the opinions encourage active participation in the formulation of international market access rules and standards, and the facilitation of convenient and efficient innovation application in key areas. This is of great significance for strengthening strategic layouts in frontier fields, enhancing the capacity to allocate global advanced and high-quality production factors, and leading the development of rules and standards in new business forms and new sectors.

Refining the market access environment for new business forms and sectors is a new reform task assigned by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will follow the requirements of the opinions to the letter, ensure their thorough implementation, and effectively promote the high-quality development of new business forms and sectors through market access reforms. Thank you.

ThePaper.cn:

The opinions call for improving the management model of the negative list for market access, establishing sound market access rules, and implementing market access management in accordance with the law. Could you share how the market regulation authorities plan to advance related work? Thank you.

Ren Duanping:

Thank you for your question. In recent years, the SAMR has actively promoted the implementation of the market access negative list system, made government approvals more standardized, procedure-based and accessible, and continuously enhanced the operability and enforceability of the items on the list. Meanwhile, we have given full play to the foundational role of the market access negative list system, standardized operation scope registration and fulfilled the "dual notification" responsibility (before registration, the business authorities shall notify the applicants of the items that need to be reviewed and approved as well as the corresponding approval departments; after registration, the business authorities shall notify relevant review and approval departments of the registration information of the applicants). Through these efforts, we aim to expand electronic business license applications and actively provide standardized and convenient registration services. Moving forward, we will earnestly implement the Opinions on Refining the National Market Access System by focusing on four key areas.

First, we will continue to refine the market access negative list. We will continuously streamline and improve the items on the negative list in collaboration with the NDRC and MOFCOM. For listed items in the market regulation field, such as food production and operation, special equipment, as well as testing and inspection, we will advance the formulation and revision of relevant laws, regulations and departmental rules, and strengthen the development of safety technical standards, so as to continually enhance the operability and enforceability of the listed items.

Second, we will continue to make government approval services more standardized, procedure-based and accessible. In accordance with the laws, regulations and rules on the establishment and implementation of licenses, we will continue to improve the "Implementation Rules for Administrative Licensing Items in the Field of Market Regulation." For all administrative licensing items regarding market regulation, we will clearly define the basic elements, licensing conditions, application materials, approval procedures and approval time limits based on the category, profession and other features of the approval levels and objects. We will continuously optimize the approval process, shorten approval times and improve approval efficiency. Additionally. we will strengthen the standardization of approvals, enhance work ethics and refine window services. We will also improve the supervision mechanisms, and implement systems such as first-inquiry responsibility, full notification and time-limited completion to improve service efficiency.

We will continue to implement standardized registration for the scope of business operation. We will work to make sure that items requiring government approval are aligned with business activities, so as to provide more standardized registration services for business entities. We will proactively fulfill our responsibility of "dual notification. " Specifically, during the business registration process, we will notify enterprises of particular items related to their business activities that require government approval. We will also strengthen information sharing, promptly notifying relevant authorities of enterprise information so as to timely include these enterprises in regulatory oversight and achieve regulatory coordination.

We will continue to improve administrative services and improve the efficiency of market access. We will thoroughly implement the State Council's decision on promoting one-stop government services and take the lead in introducing this initiative to multiple items, such as restaurant registration. We will guide local governments to effectively optimize administrative processes, strengthen collaboration, streamline administrative systems and enhance data sharing. We will strive to greatly reduce the amount of time, steps, materials and trips needed for government services, in a bid to improve the sense of fulfillment among businesses and the public. We continue to expand the application for electronic business licenses. To date, 76.35 million business entities nationwide have downloaded electronic business licenses a total of 290 million times. These licenses have been used 493 million times for identity verification, online logins and as electronic signatures, with average daily usage exceeding 900,000 times. They have also been adopted by more than 1,700 business systems in various regions and government bodies, which has significantly reduced costs and improved efficiency. That concludes my response. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

The floor is open for one last question.

The Beijing News:  

The alignment of the "two lists," namely those concerning foreign investments and market access, have long attracted widespread attention. The opinion has also outlined specific requirements for enhancing policy collaboration related to access of both domestic and foreign investments. How will these developments impact the alignment of the "two lists"? Will there be special arrangements regarding this issue for the Hainan FTP and pilot free trade zones (FTZs)? Thank you.

Li Fei:

Thank you for your questions. Regarding the first question, the negative list for market access is a part of national treatment and is applicable to all types of business entities both at home and abroad. The negative list for foreign investment access, on the other hand, pertains specifically to foreign investment management, and is exclusively applicable to overseas investors. Therefore, these two lists have been closely aligned through adjustments.

First, in terms of institutional design, it is specified that the negative list for foreign investment access should outline special management measures, including requirements on equity and senior management. Areas outside the list will be managed in accordance with the principle of equal treatment for both domestic and foreign investments. Both domestic and overseas investors are subject to the regulations of the market access negative list.

Second, in addressing specific issues, these "two lists" have been adjusted in a coordinated manner. Market access restrictions lifted for foreign investments have also been removed for domestic investments. Likewise, market access restrictions imposed on domestic investments will, in principle, also apply to foreign investments as well, provided they do not violate international agreements and commitments.

Third, in policy implementation, we uphold the principle of ensuring national treatment, continuing to eliminate and remove all kinds of barriers that hinder fair market access without reducing the market access opportunities of existing business entities. This approach aims to ensure that all business entities are guaranteed equal rights to market access in accordance with the law. The requirements outlined in the opinion not only further clarify and consolidate established existing practices, but also serve as significant institutional achievements that strengthen the alignment of the "two lists."

Regarding the second question, as the pacesetter of the nation's opening-up endeavor, FTZs and Hainan FTP witness a strong foundation of reform and development, as well as vibrant foreign investments. They are subject to a much shorter list of restrictions for foreign investment access, and they enjoy a higher-level of opening up. As for market access, based on the unified national list, Hainan FTP and other related regions will implement special measures with further relaxed market access requirements.

Moving forward, we will provide guidance to related regions and fully put the "two lists" into practice. We will also continue to improve services for foreign enterprises and strive to develop practices that are applicable to other regions, in a bid to create an accessible environment featuring efficiency and convenience for all types of businesses. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Today's press conference is hereby concluded. Thank you to all four speakers and friends from the media. Goodbye everyone.

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, Liao Jiaxin, Liu Qiang, Yan Bin, Yuan Fang, Mi Xingang, Huang Shan, Yang Xi, Liu Sitong, Xu Kailin, Li Huiru, Zhang Lulu, Xu Xiaoxuan, Ma Yujia, Zhu Bochen, Zhou Jing, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Zhang Jianhua, administrator of the National Energy Administration (NEA)

Wan Jinsong, vice administrator of the NEA

Song Wen, director general of the Department of Legal and Institutional Reform of the NEA

Li Chuangjun, director general of the Department of New Energy and Renewable Energy Sources of the NEA

Chairperson:

Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 29, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO).

Today, we are releasing the white paper titled "China's Energy Transition," and holding this press conference to introduce and interpret its main content. 

The white paper, guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, implements General Secretary Xi Jinping's important ideas and proposals on the high-quality development of energy. It systematically explains China's policies, principles and practices in advancing energy transition guided by the general secretary's new energy security strategy aimed at revolutionizing consumption, supply, technology and institutions, while strengthening all-round international cooperation. The white paper comprehensively introduces the positive achievements China has made in forming a new green energy consumption model, constructing a new energy system, developing new quality productive forces in the energy sector, and advancing the modernization of energy governance. It demonstrates China's efforts and contributions in continuously deepening international green energy cooperation, and advancing sustainable global energy development. The white paper calls on the international community to plan energy cooperation together, address global climate change, promote harmony between humanity and nature, and build a clean, beautiful planet. 

The white paper consists of a preface, main text and conclusion, totaling around 19,000 Chinese characters. The main text includes six sections: I. China's Path of Energy Transition in the New Era; II. Promoting Green Energy Consumption; III. Moving Faster to Build a New Energy Supply System; IV. Developing New Quality Productive Forces in the Energy Sector; V. Modernizing Energy Governance; and VI. Contributing to a Global Community of Shared Future.

The white paper is published in eight languages — Chinese, English, French, Russian, German, Spanish, Arabic and Japanese — by the People's Publishing House and the Foreign Languages Press, and is available at Xinhua Bookstore outlets across the country.

To help you better understand the white paper, we are glad to be joined today by Mr. Zhang Jianhua, administrator of the National Energy Administration (NEA), to introduce relevant conditions and answer your questions. Also present today are Mr. Wan Jinsong, vice administrator of the NEA; Mr. Song Wen, director general of the Department of Legal and Institutional Reform of the NEA; and Mr. Li Chuangjun, director general of the Department of New Energy and Renewable Energy Sources of the NEA. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhang for his introduction.

Zhang Jianhua:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I am glad to join you today in witnessing the release of the white paper "China's Energy Transition." First, I would like to thank you for your interest in and support for China's energy sector. 

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, following a new energy security strategy aimed at revolutionizing consumption, supply, technology and institutions, while strengthening all-round international cooperation, China has accelerated its energy transition, and pursued a path of energy transition that is suited to its actual conditions and meets the changing needs of our times. Ms. Shou just introduced the structure of the white paper, and I will briefly introduce the main contents of the document from four aspects.

First, the white paper systematically expounds the fundamental concepts of China's energy transition, which can be summarized as five principles. Putting the people first, China has always prioritized meeting people's needs for a better life and ensured people have a greater sense of gain and fulfillment in energy use. Pursuing green and low-carbon development, we have accelerated building an energy supply system dominated by non-fossil fuels, and promoting harmony between humanity and nature. Serving national development, we have applied the practice of establishing the new before discarding the old and pursed an orderly transition, ensuring secure and stable energy supply while accelerating green transition development. Boosting innovation as an impetus for growth, we are relying on technological and institutional innovation to promote green, low-carbon, safe and efficient energy development. Expanding opening up and cooperation, China upholds the vision of a global community with a shared future, and works with all countries to promote sustainable energy development. China respects the rights of developing countries to independently choose their own transition paths, and advance energy transition in an equitable, just and orderly fashion. 

Second, the white paper comprehensively introduces China's achievements in energy transition practices, as demonstrated in the following four aspects: Clean energy development has made notable progress. By the end of 2023, the total installed capacity of power generation by wind and photovoltaic (PV) increased tenfold compared to a decade ago, with clean energy accounting for 58.2% of total installed capacity. Over half of the increase in total electricity consumption has come from newly added power generated by clean energy. The proportion of clean energy consumption in total energy consumption rose from 15.5% to 26.4%, while the proportion of coal consumption decreased by 12.1 percentage points. New achievements have been made in clean and effective energy utilization. In the past decade, China phased out over 100 million kilowatts of outdated coal power capacity, reducing pollutant emissions from the power sector by over 90%. The electrification rate of society-wide final energy consumption stood at 28%. Compared with 2012, energy consumption per unit of GDP decreased by more than 26%. Green energy technology has achieved new breakthroughs. China has built complete industrial chains for the R&D, design and manufacturing of wind and PV equipment, mastered the nuclear power technologies of third-generation pressurized water reactors (PWRs) as well as fourth-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactors.  China has become a front-runner throughout the hydropower industrial chain. Institutional energy reform has achieved new progress. A diversified energy market structure is gradually taking shape, a unified and open energy market system is gradually improving, and an energy pricing mechanism reflecting market supply and demand is gradually forming. The role of the market in enhancing the consumption of clean energy, ensuring electricity supply, and optimizing resource allocation is increasingly evident. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made new deployments on further deepening energy reform, aiming to further improve the mechanisms for green, low-carbon development and accelerate the construction of a new energy system. 

Third, the white paper objectively demonstrates the contributions China has made to global green development. China has been a promoter and contributor in the global endeavor of energy transition. Over the past decade, China has been responsible for over 40% of the annual additions to global renewable energy capacity. The global share of non-fossil fuels in energy consumption rose from 13.6% to 18.5%, with China contributing 45.2% to this increase. Through sustained technological innovation, a sound system of industrial and supply chains, sufficient market competition, and the advantages of a super-scale market, China's new energy industry has developed rapidly and led to a drastic decrease in the costs of wind and PV power worldwide. China has strengthened cooperation on green energy with Belt and Road countries, and launched a significant number of "small yet smart" people-centered programs that provide these countries with clean, safe and reliable energy supply solutions.

Finally, the white paper also vividly illustrates China's proposal of working with other countries to jointly build a clean and beautiful world. Addressing the challenge of climate change and achieving sustainable energy use concerns the wellbeing of mankind. China is willing to work with the international community to expand pragmatic cooperation on energy transition; keep global energy industrial and supply chains stable, promoting open, inclusive and non-discriminatory flow of green energy products and technology; fulfill its role as a responsible major developing country together with other countries to improve global energy access; work with other countries to uphold the principle of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities, and respective capabilities to tackle challenges posed by climate change and protect our planet for the sake of human survival.

That is all for my introduction. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you Mr. Zhang for your introduction. The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your question.

CCTV:

Over the past decade of the new era, China has advanced transition and reform in the areas of energy production, consumption, technical systems and international cooperation. What have been the major achievements in China's energy transition? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your question. I would like to invite Mr. Wan to answer this question.

Wan Jinsong:

Thank you for your question. This is a very good question, and also the key point illustrated in the white paper.

Over the past decade, the energy sector has resolutely implemented the new energy security strategy proposed by General Secretary Xi Jinping that aims at revolutionizing consumption, supply, technology and institutions, while strengthening all-round international cooperation. We have advanced the reform of the energy development model, providing a strong guarantee for high-quality economic and social development and the building of a Beautiful China. The achievements of energy transition can be summarized in five aspects.

First, China's energy transition has fast-tracked clean energy development. According to our statistics, as of the end of 2023, the total installed capacity of non-fossil energy power generation had reached over 15 GW, surpassing its thermal power capacity for the first time. The electricity generated from clean energy was about 3,800 TWh, accounting for nearly 40% of the country's total electricity generation, up by around 15 percentage points from 2013. Over the past decade, electricity generated from clean energy has accounted for more than 50% of the increase in total electricity consumption, marking a growing share of green energy in China's energy mix. 

Second, China's energy transition has underpinned high-quality economic and social development. Over the past decade, investment in fixed assets in the energy sector totaled about 39 trillion yuan, with nearly 4 trillion yuan per year on average. The capacity for primary energy production has grown by 35%, providing a strong basis for steady and sound economic growth. We have established a complete industrial chain for energy equipment manufacturing. Technological innovations in new energy, hydropower, nuclear power, power transmission and transformation, and novel energy storage have accelerated, and the clean energy industry has become a new pillar of China's modern industrial system. 

Third, China's energy transition has met the people's need for a better life. Over the past decade, China's energy demand and supply have remained balanced. Energy prices have also remained generally stable, effectively ensuring energy security for more than 1.4 billion people. Over 100 billion yuan from the central budget has been invested into upgrading rural power grids. In 2015, we enabled all areas of the country to have access to electricity. Per-capita electricity consumption has doubled from about 500 kWh to nearly 1,000 kWh over this period. The scale of household PV power installations in rural areas has reached 120 GW. This has led to an income increase of 11 billion yuan for farmers and the creation of around 2 million jobs per year. 

Fourth, China's energy transition has synergized with high-standard eco-environmental protection. Compared with 2012, energy consumption per unit of GDP has decreased by more than 26%. Green and intensive development of energy and resources has been realized. The quality of China's refined oil products has reached advanced international levels. The average coal consumption of coal-fired power generation has reduced to 303 grams of standard coal per kilowatt-hour, with SO2 and NOX emissions of advanced coal-fired power generation units now comparable to the upper limits for natural gas power units. China's energy transition has effectively promoted significant improvements in the eco-environment and the building of a Beautiful China. 

Finally, China's energy transition has contributed to the global energy transition and a clean and beautiful world. In 2023, China's investment in energy transition reached $676 billion, making it the world's largest investor in this field. China has continued to expand opening up and cooperation, and has provided quality clean energy products and services to the world. In 2023, China's exports of wind power and PV products helped other countries reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 810 million metric tons. China's new energy industry has added to the global energy supply, helped reduce the cost of the global energy transition, and contributed to the global transition to green development and efforts to combat climate change. Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

Data from the International Energy Agency shows that in 2023, China's newly installed renewable energy capacity exceeded the total of other regions worldwide, making it the largest contributor to the development of the global renewable energy industry. How has this been achieved? Additionally, what positive impact do you believe the energy transition will have on global green and low-carbon development? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your questions. I'll address them. China resolutely follows the philosophy of green development in recent years, thoroughly transforming its growth model. By the end of 2023, China's installed capacity for renewable energy generation accounted for about 40% of the global total. Over the past decade, China's annual additions consistently comprised more than 40% of the global total, exceeding half in 2023. This has continually provided an impetus for global green development. The rapid growth of China's renewable energy sector can be attributed to three main factors:

First, continuous technological advancement. China has promoted initiatives like PV leader bases and large-scale new energy bases. These projects have promoted the demonstration and application of new technologies and accelerated the iteration and upgrade of technologies and products. Innovations have flourished in technologies such as PV high-efficiency crystalline silicon cells and perovskite cells. New world records for conversion efficiency have been repeatedly set, with mass-produced advanced crystalline silicon PV cells now exceeding 25% efficiency. Wind power technologies like long blades and high towers are globally leading, with offshore wind turbines reaching a maximum unit capacity of 18 megawatts.

Second, a complete industrial and supply chain. After years of development, China has built a relatively complete industrial and supply chain for new energy sources such as wind and PV. At the same time, China has actively integrated into the global clean energy industrial chain, sharing high-quality clean energy products worldwide. Chinese wind and PV technologies and products are exported to many countries and regions, supporting countries, especially developing ones, to access clean, reliable, and affordable energy.

Third, a favorable market environment. Amid rapid changes in the energy landscape both domestically and abroad, the Chinese government has dynamically improved policies and measures on the price of on-grid electricity generated from renewable energy sources, for promoting the absorption of electricity generated from new energy sources into power grids, and market allocation. These measures have fully leveraged the advantages of China's vast market to promote the healthy development of new energy. China has fostered an equal, open and inclusive market environment for new energy. This approach has attracted participation from various sectors of society in new energy development, fully unleashing the innovation vitality of the market. For example, China's PV industry now boasts over 100 listed companies.

As the world shifts toward green energy, China is accelerating its own renewable energy development while actively sharing high-quality and affordable clean energy products globally. This has effectively driven down costs for wind and PV development worldwide, providing tangible green power for the world's energy transition. It has created new opportunities for deepening international cooperation in clean energy and contributed China's strength to the global energy transition. Thank you.

Bloomberg: 

Many analysts have noted the staggering growth of clean energy generation this year and how it's been able to reduce thermal power generation over the summer months. Some speculate that China may have already peaked the emissions years before its 2030 target. What is the NEA's take on those assessments and does it think it's possible that China has already reached the peak emission? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your question. I'd like to invite Ms. Song to answer it.

Song Wen:

Thank you for your question. As you noted, China has maintained strong momentum in clean energy development, which my colleague illustrated with relevant data earlier. General Secretary Xi Jinping has emphasized that we pursue the goals of peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality not under compulsion but of our own accord. Our commitment to these goals is unwavering. Energy is a key area for achieving peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. Following the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we're actively promoting green and low-carbon energy transition based on China's energy and resource endowment.

As of the end of July, China's installed renewable energy capacity had reached 1.68 billion kilowatts, over 54% of total capacity. Over the past decade, China's growth in non-fossil energy consumption has contributed more than 40% to the global total. Annual non-fossil power generation increased by 2.2 trillion kilowatt-hours, equivalent to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 2 billion tons. This has notably curbed overall carbon emission growth across society. However, it is important to recognize that China is still a developing country. We are advancing the modernization of a huge population, which means energy demand will continue to grow as people seek better lives. There are also increasing uncertainties and unpredictable factors. Therefore, it still requires arduous efforts to achieve the dual carbon goals.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed establishing new mechanisms to facilitate the transition from controlling the total amount and intensity of energy consumption to controlling the total amount and intensity of carbon emissions. Since the beginning of this year, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council have issued a series of policy documents on energy conservation and carbon reduction, including the recently issued Opinions on Accelerating the Comprehensive Green Transformation of Economic and Social Development and the Work Plan for Accelerating the Establishment of a Dual Control System for Carbon Emissions. These documents outline the framework for green, low-carbon development and the dual carbon targets in the coming years. The energy industry is also conducting preliminary research for the 15th Five-Year Plan, focusing on goals and tasks for the next phase of the energy transition. We'll intensify efforts to promote high-quality renewable energy development, advance the green and low-carbon energy transition, and aim to increase the proportion of non-fossil energy consumption by about 1 percentage point each year. We're capable and confident of reaching peak carbon emissions before 2030 as planned. Thank you.

Xinhua News Agency:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed deepening reforms comprehensively and modernizing China's system and capacity for governance. What capabilities will China strengthen in terms of the energy transition? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for the question. I'll answer it. The energy transition is a broad and profound systemic transformation of the economy and society, requiring a significant enhancement of the energy governance system and modernization of governance capacity. In recent years, China has leveraged the decisive role of the market in resource allocation through various measures, such as promoting reform, improving policies, and ensuring the rule of law. These efforts have given better play to the role of the government and created a favorable development environment for the energy transition. As you said, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed deepening reform of the energy management system and accelerating the planning and development of a new type of energy system, providing a clear direction for building the energy governance system and capacity. Next, we will focus on four key areas of work.

First, we need to deepen energy reform. We will establish a unified national electricity market, continue expanding the coverage of markets for spot trading of electricity, and further improve the allocation of electricity resources. We'll also establish and improve mechanisms for green and low-carbon development, accelerate the cultivation of green electricity and green electricity certificate markets, and improve the policies for promoting the absorption of electricity generated from new energy sources into power grids and for the regulation of such energy. Additionally, we will promote the safe, reliable, and orderly replacement of fossil fuels with non-fossil energy. We will promote independent operation of natural monopoly businesses and advance market-oriented reforms in the competitive areas.

Second, we need to improve energy legislation. We will formulate an energy law, compile an environmental code, accelerate revisions to the Renewable Energy Law, Energy Conservation Law, and Electric Power Law, and strengthen the enactment of laws on energy saving and efficiency improvement as well as prioritizing clean energy development and utilization. Moreover, we will implement incentive and constraint systems such as green certificates to promote green energy consumption and support green and low-carbon technology innovation. We will also promote the formulation and revision of laws and regulations guiding green and low-carbon energy use in key sectors.

Third, we need to strengthen development planning. We'll conduct thorough research and preparation for the 15th Five-Year Plan for energy, fully leveraging the strategic guiding role of national energy planning in major project layouts, public resource allocation, and social capital investment. We will balance development and security, clarifying an energy transition timeline and roadmap. Additionally, we'll improve standards for green and low-carbon energy development.

Fourth, we need to strengthen energy oversight. We will enhance the supervision of major energy plans and the implementation of clean energy projects. We'll increase oversight of the absorption of electricity generated from renewable energy sources into power grids and the construction and operation of adjustable energy supplies to ensure the effective application of major energy transition policies. We will also tighten supervision of market transactions, pricing mechanisms, and information disclosure to ensure the effective implementation of rules for new energy market participation. Thanks.

Reuters:

China's 14th Five-Year Plan set a goal to reach 1,200 gigawatts of installed solar and wind capacity by 2030. As of July, China achieved this target six years ahead of schedule. Since new energy development has exceeded expectations, will China further raise its 2030 target? Additionally, in 2025, the Paris Agreement requires signatory countries to propose their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) for 2035. Will China increase the ambition of its energy transformation targets in its next NDC? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your questions and interest in our energy industry, particularly new energy development. We are very grateful. I'll defer to Mr. Li Chuangjun for the answer.

Li Chuangjun:

Thank you for your questions. On Dec. 12, 2020, President Xi Jinping announced at the Climate Ambition Summit that China's installed capacity for wind and solar power would exceed 1.2 billion kilowatts by 2030. China's energy industry has earnestly implemented the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping, resolutely carried out the policies and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and vigorously promoted the high-quality development of wind and solar power. The scale of wind and PV installations has reached new milestones. By the end of July this year, China's installed capacity of wind power reached 471 million kilowatts, and that of solar power reached 735 million kilowatts, resulting in a combined capacity of 1.206 billion kilowatts.

China's rapid development of wind and solar power has significantly contributed to addressing climate change, ensuring energy supply, promoting the clean and low-carbon transition, and advancing global new energy development. China has become a key leader and promoter in global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions. At the same time, to achieve carbon peaking and ensure the proportion of non-fossil energy consumption reaching about 25% of total energy use by 2030, China needs to continue promoting large-scale, high-quality development of wind and solar power.

Regularly updating NDCs is a bottom-up global climate governance mechanism established by the Paris Agreement. Under this mechanism, each party sets its climate targets based on national conditions. Since the beginning of this year, following the Paris Agreement and related decisions, relevant departments in China have been actively studying and evaluating the next round of NDC targets in light of new situations and changes. It is important to emphasize that China's commitment to its dual carbon goals remains unwavering. However, the path, method, pace and intensity to achieve these goals should and must be determined by China itself, without external influence. China will adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and set well-conceived new goals and measures in light of the country's national realities. This will contribute significantly to jointly addressing climate change and building a clean and beautiful planet. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

The action plan for quickly building a new type of power system (2024-2027) was released to the public recently. Could you please provide an update on the current progress of constructing such a system and outline the considerations for future steps? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your questions. Mr. Wan will address them.  

Wan Jinsong:

Thank you for your questions; they are indeed pertinent. To drive the energy transition, it is imperative to vigorously develop new energy sources. To achieve this, we must expedite the construction of a new type of power system that is clean and low-carbon, secure and adequate, economical and efficient, supply-demand coordinated, flexible and intelligent. In recent years, our energy sector has strengthened overall planning, advancing the construction of the new power system through policies, platforms, capabilities and markets.

In terms of policies, we are continuously refining the policy framework for the new power system. Recently, as you have noted, the National Development and Reform Commission, the NEA, and the National Data Administration jointly issued the action plan to quickly build a new type of power system (2024-2027). Based on the current stage of development, the plan focuses on key areas urgently needing breakthroughs in the near term for the construction of the new system. By selecting typical and representative directions to advance work, it aims to address major issues through sharply focused efforts. We've proposed nine special actions to coordinate the development of the new power system. For instance, the plan proposes expanding the network of electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities. This will not only meet the charging needs of EVs but also promote greater new energy consumption through vehicle-grid integration. 

In terms of platforms, we're strengthening the power grid's role in resource allocation. We continue to improve the main grid structure, advance the planning and construction of trans-provincial and trans-regional transmission channels, and upgrade and transform distribution networks. By the end of 2025, China's trans-provincial and trans-regional transmission capacity is expected to reach 360 million kilowatts. The distribution network will be capable of accommodating around 500 million kilowatts of distributed new energy sources and approximately 12 million charging piles. The grid's capacity to carry and allocate power resources will significantly improve.

In terms of capabilities, we're strengthening flexible regulation capacity. We continue to promote the "three reforms" of coal-fired power plants in energy conservation, heat supply and flexibility. These efforts further improve coal power's efficient regulation performance and clean, low-carbon levels. We're coordinating the development of regulatory resources such as pumped storage and new energy storage while deeply tapping into demand response and regulation capabilities. Since the beginning of the 14th Five-Year Plan period, the country has completed the "three reforms" for coal-fired power units exceeding 740 million kilowatts. As of the end of June this year, the installed capacity of pumped storage nationwide reached 54.39 million kilowatts, while the installed capacity of new energy storage was 44.44 million kilowatts.

Regarding markets, we're fully leveraging their decisive role in resource allocation. We're actively promoting the construction of a unified national electricity market system. Through market transactions, we aim to guide the efficient and rational use of electricity, invigorate the vitality of business entities, and promote the large-scale optimization of electricity resources. In 2023, the volume of electricity traded in the Chinese power market accounted for 61.4% of total electricity consumption nationwide.

Looking ahead, we'll adhere to planning-led development, focusing on research and preparation for the 15th Five-Year Plan for energy and electricity development. We'll establish and improve working mechanisms, issue implementation plans for special actions, and efficiently and orderly advance the implementation of various actions for the new power system. We'll continuously enhance the grid's capacity for absorbing, distributing, and regulating clean energy. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

I am particularly interested in issues related to sci-tech innovation. Sci-tech innovation is the core driving force behind China's energy transition. I've also noticed that the white paper outlines China's achievements in sci-tech innovation related to the energy transition. Could you please elaborate on the specific measures China has taken in this regard? Thank you.

Song Wen:

Thank you for your question. China has deeply implemented its innovation-driven development strategy in recent years, strengthening top-level design for energy technology innovation. We've established a "four-in-one" energy sci-tech innovation system that integrates major technology R&D, major equipment development, major demonstration projects and sci-tech innovation platforms. This approach promotes the deep integration of innovation and industrial chains, achieving important phased progress.

We're focusing on three key initiatives. First, we're promoting collaborative innovation. Leveraging major sci-tech projects and innovation platforms and the construction of major projects in the energy sector, we're strengthening collaborative innovation between industries, universities, research institutes, and end-users with enterprises as the main body. We've established and improved mechanisms for tackling key technologies and promoted the effective integration of technology R&D, result commercialization, and demonstration projects. Second, we're promoting the improvement of the policy framework. We've issued a series of strategic plans and industrial policies for sci-tech innovation in the energy sector, formulating innovation roadmaps and timelines. These support the development of new industries, models, and business forms, such as new energy storage, hydrogen energy, and the digital and smart transformation of the energy sector. Finally, we're accelerating the transformation of scientific achievements. We've continued to demonstrate pioneering major technological equipment and expedited the conversion of major energy sci-tech breakthroughs into real-world productive forces.

Next, the energy industry will continue to strengthen the role of technological innovation as the primary driving force, focusing on three key areas: First, we will fully unleash innovation potential. We will leverage the leading and driving role of innovation platforms to accelerate the overall efficiency of the energy technology innovation system, with enterprises as the primary contributors. Second, we will vigorously foster and develop new quality productive forces. We will promote technological advancements in areas such as new energy, nuclear power and smart grids. This includes actively nurturing new technologies, industries and business models, turning energy technologies and related industries into new growth drivers for industrial upgrading. Third, we will enhance the transformation and application of achievements. We will rely on major projects to promote breakthroughs, demonstrations, and the adoption of energy technologies and equipment. By creating a favorable environment for the early adoption of energy technology outcomes, we aim to continuously advance the iterative upgrading of new technologies and products through engineering applications. Thank you.

China Electric Power News:

Data shows that from 2013 to 2023, China maintained an average annual economic growth rate of 6% with an average annual energy consumption growth rate of 3.2%. Meanwhile, China's energy intensity decreased by a total of 26.1%, making it one of the fastest countries in the world in reducing energy intensity. How has China's energy usage evolved compared with the past? And what measures will be taken to consolidate this positive trend? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your questions. I would like to invite Mr. Li to answer your questions.

Li Chuangjun:

Thank you for your questions. Green is the cornerstone of ecological civilization, and China firmly upholds and practices the belief that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. Since General Secretary Xi Jinping proposed the new energy security strategy of "Four Reforms and One Cooperation" in 2014, China has undertaken a series of green innovation initiatives, leading to an accelerated transformation in energy consumption patterns. As Mr. Zhang mentioned earlier, this transformation is primarily reflected in three key areas:

First, energy utilization has become more streamlined and efficient. China has consistently adhered to the principle of prioritizing energy conservation, enhancing efficiency in key energy-consuming sectors, and firmly curbing unreasonable energy consumption. Over the past decade, China has become one of the fastest countries in reducing energy intensity globally, resulting in an approximate saving of 1.4 billion metric tons of standard coal. As you mentioned, we have supported an average annual economic growth rate of 6% with an average annual energy consumption growth rate of 3.2%.

Second, the shift toward cleaner, low-carbon energy consumption has accelerated. The energy consumption structure has continued to optimize. Over the past decade, the proportion of coal consumption has decreased by a total of 12.1 percentage points, while non-fossil fuel consumption has more than doubled, with the level of electrification increasing by about 7 percentage points. In 2023, China's wind and PV power generation exceeded the electricity consumption of urban and rural residents, meaning that one-third of the electricity consumed nationwide was green electricity. The quality of oil products has achieved a three-level upgrade from the National III to National VI standards, and the population using natural gas has increased by 300 million, reaching 560 million people. Additionally, pilot applications of nuclear energy for heating and steam supply have been successfully implemented.

Finally, the concept of green energy consumption has rapidly taken shape. China actively promotes green and low-carbon lifestyles, vigorously advocates the excellent Chinese tradition of diligence and thrift, and is fostering a shift in lifestyle and consumption patterns toward simplicity, moderation, green, low-carbon and healthy living. We have launched campaigns to promote green living, organized themed activities such as National Ecology Day, stepped up efforts to promote green and low-carbon products, and encouraged the public to prioritize green transportation methods such as public transportation, cycling and walking.

Since the beginning of this year, documents such as the national guidelines to ramp up the green transition of socio-economic development and the action plan for energy conservation and carbon reduction for 2024-2025 have been implemented. These documents provide comprehensive guidance on promoting green transformation in key sectors, including industrial layout, spatial patterns, technological innovation and policy support. Going forward, we will ensure the effective implementation of these measures, actively expand green consumption, and accelerate the formation of green and low-carbon production and lifestyles. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

The white paper introduces the status of China's energy transformation. What advanced experiences and practices does China have in energy transformation? And what solutions has China contributed to the global energy transformation? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your questions. I will address this. China's energy transformation faces two main challenges: ensuring energy security and accelerating green and low-carbon development. China has proposed a new energy security strategy and achieved significant results in energy transformation, forging a path that aligns with our national conditions and meets the requirements of the times. Our work has focused on five key areas:

First, we have established the vision of building a global community of shared future. We have proposed and implemented the vision of a global community of shared future and a community of life for humanity and nature, and taken an energy transition path of openness and cooperation to promote global sustainable development. Adhering to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, we have deepened energy transition cooperation with all countries under the Belt and Road Initiative framework and contributed China's strength to global green and low-carbon energy transition, in a bid to benefit people and the world.

Second, we have turned development blueprints into tangible projects. China has set goals for peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality, fully harnessing the guiding role of national strategic plans. We have formulated medium- to long-term and five-year overall plans for the energy sector as well as plans for the development of renewable energy. These set specific goals, tasks and paths for green and low-carbon energy transition and development, which we have steadfastly advanced.

Third, we have focused on coordinating supply and demand. We have taken solid steps in "addition and subtraction" in this regard. On the supply side, we have delivered a strong performance in "addition" by improving the quality and expanding the quantity of non-fossil fuels. We have vigorously developed non-fossil energy, continuously optimized the energy structure and increased the proportion of non-fossil fuels in new energy demand. On the consumption side, we have excelled in "subtraction" through energy conservation and carbon reduction. Adhering to the principle that energy conservation is a primary energy source, we have tightened control over fossil fuel consumption, accelerated the clean and efficient use of fossil energy, and mobilized all sectors of society to use green energy and implement clean substitutes.

Fourth, we have established the new before abolishing the old and advanced energy transition in a well-ordered way. We have coordinated development and security, accelerating the transition while ensuring a safe and stable supply of energy. We have expedited the construction of a new electricity system, boosted the capacity of power grids to absorb new energy sources, and implemented reliable substitutes for fossil fuels in a well-ordered way. At the same time, we have also given full play to the supporting and guaranteeing role of traditional energy, promoting synergy and complementarity between new and traditional energy sources.

Fifth, we have balanced fairness and efficiency. On the one hand, we have intensified efforts to develop the energy market, promoting investment in new energy through market price signals. We have guided the transition by emphasizing the roles of thermal power as a basic guarantee and in systematically regulating power use. We have optimized energy consumption behavior and stimulated social demand for green energy. On the other hand, we have strengthened law-based governance, improving the legal framework for energy transition. We have strengthened market supervision, optimized public services, and created a stable, fair, transparent and predictable development environment for all types of business entities. This approach ensures an organic unity of efficiency and fairness in energy transition. Thank you.

Cover News:

China's EV industry has developed rapidly in recent years, but charging congestion occurs in some areas and during certain periods. What has the NEA done to improve EV charging infrastructure? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your question. I'll invite Mr. Wan to respond.

Wan Jinsong:

Thank you for your question. China places great importance on the development of EV charging infrastructure, viewing it as crucial for promoting green, low-carbon energy transition and high-quality development in the transportation sector. Generally, national charging services for EVs have largely met the needs of the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry and the public's travel needs. However, as you mentioned, in some areas and during certain periods, such as holidays, particularly busy expressway service areas may have queues for EV charging. To address this issue, in recent years, the NEA has been committed to making improvements in three aspects and advancing its efforts in two ways.

First, we have improved the policy system. We issued policy documents, including the Implementation Opinions on Further Improving the Guaranteed Service Capacity of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure. These documents have provided policy support and outlined specific work arrangements for layout plans, construction and operation, supporting power grids, and price rewards and subsidies.

Second, we have improved the EV charging network. According to the latest statistics, China had 10.6 million charging facilities as of July 2024, effectively meeting the charging needs of more than 25 million NEVs. In downtown areas of first-tier cities, the public charging service radius is already equivalent to gas stations. At present, charging piles have been installed at 95% of expressway service areas, forming an inter-city charging network covering "10 vertical, 10 horizontal and two rings of expressways" across China. Over one-third of the country's provincial-level regions have built charging piles in all their towns and villages.

Third, we have improved standards for EV charging. We issued 106 standards related to EV charging facilities, covering 21 professional fields and improving safety regulations across the industrial chain. At present, China's high-power direct current charging standard has reached a world-class level, with breakthroughs in wireless charging, roaming charges and other fields. The country's charging standard system is now on par with those of the United States, Europe, and Japan.

First, we should promote the rapid upgrading of charging technology. Currently, China has already established multiple routes of technology development, including conductive charging, battery swapping and wireless charging, with the full localization of DC charging power modules. Over the past five years, costs have been reduced by 90%. We have spearheaded globally the introduction of charging methods, such as charging pantograph s and group charging and control, rapidly popularizing high-power charging technology and achieving demonstration applications of vehicle-grid interaction.

Second, we should foster an industrial ecosystem. Currently, private enterprises account for over 70% of the equipment scale among charging station operators. We have gradually established a user-centric charging service system to ensure "someone builds, someone manages and sustainability." By integrating charging cloud services with industries, such as automobiles, finance and transportation, we have formed an "internet + charging" industrial ecosystem.

Next, we will accelerate the construction of a high-quality charging infrastructure system in accordance with the requirements of the action plan to build a system for new energy sources between 2024 and 2027 to support the green and low-carbon development of the transportation sector. We believe that with the continuous improvement of our country's charging infrastructure construction layout and service system, the issues of slow and difficult charging in some regions, and at specific times, will be further alleviated, and the charging experience for car owners will become more comfortable. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Due to time constraints, last question please.

Beijing Youth Daily:

Regarding non-fossil energy, I'd like to specifically ask about nuclear power. In recent years, China has achieved remarkable growth in terms of both scale and speed in developing nuclear power and has established a complete industrial chain for nuclear power technology. How can China's nuclear power industry ensure safer, greener, more efficient as well as diversified development in the future? Thank you.

Zhang Jianhua:

Thank you for your question and for your interest in our nuclear power industry. Nuclear power may be a niche product, but it is indeed a clean, low-carbon and efficient high-quality energy source, serving as an important base-load power source in the power system. Developing nuclear power is of great significance for ensuring energy security, promoting a green and low-carbon energy transformation, and helping achieve the goals of reaching peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. China's nuclear power industry actually started in the 1980s. After 40 years of exploration and practice, we have established a complete industrial system and are one of the few countries in the world with a complete nuclear power industrial system. The past decade of the new era has especially been the fastest period of development for our country's nuclear power industry, achieving historic accomplishments. We have accumulated rich experience and engineering capabilities in nuclear power technology research and development, engineering design, equipment manufacturing, construction, and operation.

You may have noticed that last week, the State Council approved five new nuclear power projects, totaling 11 units. Currently, China has approved a total of 102 nuclear power units in operation and under construction in the mainland, with a total installed capacity of 113.13 million kilowatts. This ranks first in the world. Currently, 56 units are in operation with an installed capacity of 58.08 million kilowatts. The 46 approved units, including those currently under construction, have an installed capacity of 55.05 million kilowatts. Therefore, combining both operational and under-construction units, China ranks first globally.

In recent years, our country's operational nuclear power units have maintained high levels of power generation, fully leveraging their role as baseload power sources. Although nuclear power accounts for less than 2% of the country's total installed capacity, it generates nearly 5% of the total electricity output. In particular, nuclear power has become an important supporting and primary power source in eastern coastal regions. In five provinces—Liaoning, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong and Hainan—nuclear power accounts for more than 20% of the total electricity generated, playing a vital role in ensuring power supply.

The 20th National Congress of the CPC also made strategic plans for the active, safe and orderly development of nuclear power, charting the course for nuclear power development in the new era. In the future, we will follow the central government's deployment, balancing development and safety. We will adhere to the strictest standards for planning and approval, the highest quality for project construction, the most rigorous requirements for operation and management as well as the strictest measures for supervision and regulation to ensure steady and orderly construction progress. We will actively promote the comprehensive utilization of nuclear energy in heating, steam supply and seawater desalination, steadily increase the proportion of nuclear power in energy and electricity consumption as well as support the energy revolution and green and low-carbon development. At the same time, we are actively participating in global nuclear power construction, sharing China's experience and contributing to the global effort to combat climate change. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Zhang Jianhua. Thank you to all the presenters and to all the journalists for participating. That's all for today's press conference. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Liu Jianing, Wang Qian, Xu Kailin, Ma Yujia, Li Huiru, Mi Xingang, Huang Shan, Yan Xiaoqing, Yang Chuanli, Liu Sitong, Liu Caiyi, Yuan Fang, Yan Bin, Wang Wei, Wang Ziteng, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Qi Yanjun, executive vice minister of public security

Mr. Qiu Baoli, director general of the Bureau of Public Security Management of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS)

Mr. Li Jiantao, director general of the Bureau of Environmental Resources, Food and Drug Crime Investigation of the MPS and director general of the Bureau of Intellectual Property Crime Investigation of the MPS

Mr. Wang Qiang, director general of the Bureau of Traffic Management of the MPS

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 27, 2024 

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Qi Yanjun, executive vice minister of public security; Mr. Qiu Baoli, director general of the Bureau of Public Security Management of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS); Mr. Li Jiantao, director general of the Bureau of Environmental Resources, Food and Drug Crime Investigation of the MPS and director general of the Bureau of Intellectual Property Crime Investigation of the MPS; and Mr. Wang Qiang, director general of the Bureau of Traffic Management of the MPS, to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Qi for his introduction. 

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you, Ms. Shou. Hello, friends from the media.

Since the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), public security organs nationwide have fully implemented the guiding principles of the congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, thoroughly studied and implemented the important remarks of General Secretary Xi Jinping on high-quality development, and carried out the arrangements of the National Public Security Work Conference. We have further innovated our philosophies, optimized measures and improved methodologies, with the aim of creating sound political, social, service and legal environments that are conducive for high-quality development. We have made new contributions to sustaining rapid economic growth and long-term social stability, which are two remarkable achievements. 

We have made every effort to strengthen political security, fostering a secure and stable political environment for high-quality development. We have fully applied a holistic approach to national security, prioritizing political security, closely guarding against and cracking down on infiltration, subversive, disruptive and destructive activities by internal and external hostile forces, to firmly safeguard the security of China's state power, systems and ideology. We have resolutely and initiatively cracked down on terrorism and separatism and continuously conducted special actions to combat violence and terrorism, firmly preventing violent and terrorist cases and incidents. We have thoroughly implemented the Global Security Initiative, deepened international law enforcement cooperation to maintain security, and made more partners in law enforcement and security cooperation. We have firmly safeguarded the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and legal persons overseas. 

We have made every effort to maintain the long-term stability and security of society, fostering a peaceful and harmonious social environment for high-quality development. We have upheld a people-centric development philosophy, carried forward and evolved the Fengqiao Experience (an approach to resolve social disputes at the community level) in the new era, and facilitated the improvement of public security governance mechanisms and social governance systems, advancing the Peaceful China Initiative to a higher level. In 2023, public security organs nationwide filed 4.8% fewer criminal cases than in 2022, whereas the number of public security cases being investigated and handled was on par with that in 2022. From January to July this year, the number of criminal cases filed dropped 30.1% year on year, achieving a 14-month decline streak; the number of telecommunications and online fraud cases filed decreased 23.8% year on year, falling for 11 consecutive months; and 99.94% of current homicide cases were solved, the highest rate in history. People's sense of security has constantly improved. Foreigners staying in China often praise it as one of the safest countries in the world. In 2023, the national public security index maintained a high standard, reaching 98.2% and remaining above 98% for four years in a row. 

We have made every effort to enhance coordinated reforms, fostering an excellent and efficient service environment for high-quality development. We have fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy, further deepening the reform of public security related administrative services to continue unleashing the internal driving forces and creativity of society. Since 2019, we have fulfilled the duties and missions of public security authorities and rolled out a series of new reform measures to benefit both individuals and enterprises. We have advanced one-stop government services by improving the list-based management mechanism for relevant major tasks. We have diversified the methods for accessing administrative services, optimized related procedures, reduced the materials required, and minimized costs. In terms of benefiting individuals and enterprises, we have issued more than 240 reform measures to facilitate socioeconomic development and improve the business environment. In terms of public security and household administration, we have continuously deepened efforts in providing frequently used household administrative services across provinces and providing ID card related services outside home jurisdiction. More than 4.15 million household registration transfers have been handled across provinces, and 116 million ID cards have been renewed or reissued outside home jurisdiction. In terms of traffic management, we have rolled out 10 sets of new reform measures, benefiting more than 800 million people and cutting more than 70 billion yuan ($9.86 billion) in administrative costs for the public. In terms of integrated urban-rural development, the process of granting permanent urban residency to people moving out of rural areas has been advanced in an orderly manner. Since 2014, a total of 150 million of these people have been granted permanent urban residency in a steady and orderly manner. Nationwide, the registered urban population proportion reached 48.3% in 2023, up from 35.9% in 2014.

We have made every effort to improve public security through rule of law, fostering a fair and just legal environment for high-quality development. We have continuously deepened efforts in standardizing law enforcement, improving rule of law in public security work and the credibility of law enforcement, to let the public feel a sense of fairness and justice in our handling of each case and incident. We have upheld and fulfilled our commitments to unswervingly consolidating and developing the public sector and unswervingly encouraging, supporting and guiding the development of the non-public sector. Based on the principle of equitable and law-based protection, we have investigated and handled 396,000 criminal cases involving intellectual property infringement and disruption of market order since 2019. We have insisted on boosting development and ensuring effective governance through good legislation, facilitating the formulation and revision of more than 50 laws and regulations related to public security. We have insisted on ensuring fairness and justice by standardizing law enforcement, setting up 3,055 management centers for law enforcement and case handling at city and county levels, which have become vivid examples showcasing the law-based governance of China. We have thoroughly promoted strict, standardized, impartial and civilized law enforcement, improved related methodologies, and standardized the language and conduct used in the process, achieving a better balance between law, reason and sense, and ensuring the timeliness, intensity and effect of law enforcement. 

On the new journey, public security authorities nationwide will thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, to gain a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We will be more conscious of the need to maintain political integrity, think in big-picture terms, follow the leadership core, and maintain alignment with the central Party leadership. We will remain confident in the path, theory, system and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics. We will uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. We will also further deepen all-round reform of the public security system and pursue modernization with our work, increasing our contribution to building a great country and advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

That is all for my introduction. Next, my colleagues and I are ready to take your questions. 

Thank you, Mr. Qi, for your introduction. Let's move on to the question-and-answer session. Please identify the media outlet you represent before raising your question. The floor is now open for questions.

Hongxing News:

Today's China is a country of people who are on the move. We've noted that the third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee outlined plans for promoting integrated urban-rural development. What steps will public security agencies take to support this integration, especially in reforming the household registration system and granting permanent urban residency to eligible rural migrants? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you for your question. I would like to invite Mr. Qiu to answer it.

Qiu Baoli:

I'll answer this question. Household registration system reform is a critical issue attracting significant public attention. The third plenary session of the 20th Party Central Committee proposed implementing systems allowing people to obtain household registration and access basic public services where they permanently reside. We will push to see that eligible rural-to-urban migrants enjoy the same rights as registered local residents regarding social insurance, housing support, and access to compulsory education for their children living with them. We'll also accelerate the process of granting them permanent urban residency and explore establishing a unified national population management system. These efforts will guide further household registration reform. The MPS will work with relevant departments to conduct in-depth research and take effective measures to grant permanent urban residency to eligible rural-to-urban migrants in an orderly manner, promoting integrated urban-rural development.

First, we're committed to introducing policies that benefit people. We have accelerated the implementation of the household registration system at the place of habitual residence. Through the joint efforts of various regions and departments, most cities nationwide have lifted all restrictions on household registration. Next, we'll guide local governments to implement category-based and region-specific policies, adhering to basic conditions of legal and stable employment or residence, including leasing. We'll relax restrictions on household registration in cities with 3 to 5 million permanent residents and improve points-based household registration policies for megacities with more than 5 million permanent urban residents. These measures aim to better facilitate the urbanization of the rural migrant population.

Second, we have committed to offering convenient services to the public and ensuring easy access to commonly used government services. In recent years, public security agencies have made significant progress in advancing the handling of common government services on an interprovincial basis. As of the end of July this year, 2.4 million household certification services were handled interprovincially. Meanwhile, over 1.2 million resident ID cards were issued for first-time applicants interprovincially. More than 42.32 million resident ID cards were replaced and reissued across provinces and 73.62 million across prefectures. Building on the fully implementation of nationwide access to household registration transfer, resident ID cards and temporary resident ID cards, we will guide local governments to actively respond to new public expectations and demands. We will steadily advance the online completion of all procedures for common household administration services, such as reissuing, replacing and obtaining resident ID cards, so that tasks can be done without leaving home.

At the same time, we remain committed to carrying out reforms that benefit the public, actively exploring the establishment of a national unified household registration management system. In recent years, valuable practical experience has been gained in deepening the reform of the household registration system, which has laid a solid foundation for establishing a unified national household registration management system. Next, we will continue to deepen the reform of the household registration system and accelerate the integration of the function of resident ID cards and residence permits. Taking resident ID numbers as the unique identifiers, we will accelerate the interdepartmental connection and sharing of population information resources in accordance with the law and aggregate information on employment and education so as to better promote one-stop government services. We will advance legislation in the field of household registration management so as to provide a legal guarantee for a national unified household registration management system. Thank you.

China Police Daily:

In recent years, the MPS has continued to promote the reform of administrative management services and introduced a series of measures. Notably, in August 2023, the MPS issued 26 measures to support high-quality economic and social development. Could you please update us on the overall progress of these initiatives? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you for the question. The reform of administrative management services is an important vehicle for public security agencies to advance high-quality development. Since the 20th CPC National Congress, the MPS has launched a series of reform measures to support high-quality development, including the 26 measures you just mentioned. The implementation of these reform measures has achieved remarkable progress. Allow me to briefly outline this progress in three key areas.

In terms of serving and ensuring the implementation of major national strategies, we have continued to increase institutional support. We have further refined the household registration transfer policy and continued facilitating urbanization of the rural migrant population. At present, household registration restrictions have been comprehensively relaxed or lifted in all cities, except for a few megacities in the eastern region and some provincial capitals in the central and western regions. Focusing on serving coordinated regional development, we have studied and formulated a series of measures, such as certain measures for supporting accelerated growth in the central region. We have continued to enhance law enforcement coordination in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and the Yangtze River Delta, serving coordinated regional development through collaboration among regional police forces. We have advanced the institutional opening up of immigration management and enhanced the convenience of immigration and entry-exit administration. From January to July 2024, the number of foreign tourists visiting China for sightseeing (leisure) reached 5.722 million, with 3.803 million for meetings (business) and 1.723 million for visits to relatives and friends, rising by 403%, 81.5% and 107.4% year-on-year respectively.

In terms of serving the establishment of a modern industrial system, we have continued to unleash the vitality of innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity. We have highlighted service functions, established regular police-enterprise contact mechanisms, and innovated online and offline service models. We have developed several service brands to assist and protect enterprises, including the "11087 Qinqing in Zhejiang" by Zhejiang public security authorities and the "Qinqing in Fujian" brand by Fujian public security authorities. We have further facilitated the passage of vehicles for logistics and freight transportation. More than 270 cities above the prefecture level have lifted traffic restrictions on new energy light trucks, as well as smaller box trucks and enclosed trucks, promoting urban truck routes and serving nearly 30,000 enterprises. We have further regulated law enforcement involving enterprises and strictly regulated coercive measures that concern the personal rights of citizens as well as the sealing, sequestering and freezing of assets. We will take timely and effective actions against prominent law enforcement problems and protect the property rights and lawful rights and interests of business operators in accordance with the law.

In terms of efficient convenience for the people and benefits for enterprises, we have innovated and optimized public security administration services. We will continue to promote more public security administration services to be handled "online and on mobile devices; in one visit and in an integrated manner; nearby and in different places." As I just introduced, people can apply for identity cards, electronic driver's licenses and vehicle licenses outside of their home jurisdiction. Currently, residence registration transfer, identity cards, driver's licenses and passports can all be handled throughout the country. Comprehensive service windows for public security administration services have been set up in 24,000 police stations, where more than 100 government service items can be handled. In addition, more than 20,000 self-service devices have been installed in police stations across the country to provide the public with 24/7 services. Centering on the entire process and all links of people's travel, including license plate and certificate application, road traffic and traffic accident handling, we have launched several batches of reform measures, such as simplifying vehicle registration and transactions, optimizing the management of bus lanes in cities, and promoting online video quick handling of minor traffic accidents. So far, 250 million electronic driver's licenses have been issued. Electronic vehicle licenses have been piloted in 60 cities including Beijing, with more than 22 million vehicle owners issued with electronic vehicle licenses. These efforts have provided more convenient and efficient public security traffic management administration services for the public.

There is no end to the development of services. Next, the public security authorities will further innovate their concepts, improve their methods and optimize their measures to continuously enhance the efficiency of service management and more proactively lead high-quality development. That is all from me.

Dutch Public Broadcaster NOS:

Yesterday, the period of soliciting opinions closed for the newly proposed national network identification and authentication management, also referred to as "Wanghao" or "Wangzheng." These proposed measures caused backlash in China, including among leading intellectuals. How will your ministry guarantee that a transgression on one internet platform will not cause an individual to be excluded from all other necessary internet services needed in modern day life?

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you to the foreign journalist friend for your question. Recently, during the process of soliciting opinions on cyberspace IDs and certificates, many good opinions and suggestions have been put forward by all sectors of society, and we have paid interest to all of them. Regarding this issue, I would like to invite Mr. Qiu to answer.

Qiu Baoli:

I'll answer this question. Thank you for your interest in this issue.

As this journalist mentioned, on July 26, the MPS and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) jointly released the draft measures for the administration of cyberspace IDs and solicited opinions, attracting widespread attention. On Aug. 25, the soliciting period ended, and we are now meticulously sorting through the opinions from all sides and fully incorporating everyone's suggestions. Regarding the issues of cyberspace IDs and certificates that everyone is interested in, the media has provided detailed interpretations of related issues last week. I recommend the journalist friend look into them. The explanations are very detailed and comprehensive, and can answer your questions.

However, it should be noted that after the implementation of the national cyberspace ID service, users will have an additional safe and convenient option. Original network identity authentication methods can still be used, and users can still access the internet normally without using cyberspace IDs or certificates. Thank you.

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:

Currently, the topics of unmanned and autonomous driving are very popular. We also understand that the MPS has cooperated with the Ministry of Transport and other departments on numerous areas. What other considerations have the MPS made in promoting the development of unmanned and autonomous driving? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you for your question. I would like to invite Mr. Wang to answer.

Wang Qiang:

I'll answer this question. This is also an issue of great concern to all sectors of society. Intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs), commonly known as unmanned or autonomous vehicles, are currently a major high ground in the new round of scientific and technological revolution worldwide. Currently, through continuous technological accumulation and testing, China's ICV industry is advancing steadily. In this process, the public security traffic management departments and public security organs have fully leveraged their functions and protected the legitimate rights and interests of traffic participants in accordance with the law, continuously adapted to the development of autonomous driving technology, and actively cooperated with competent authorities to carry out management and support work. So far, a total of 16,000 license plates for testing autonomous vehicles have been issued, and 32,000 kilometers of public roads have been opened for testing, which has effectively supported the verification and updating of autonomous driving technology.

On the one hand, we are actively cooperating with competent authorities to promote road trials. Our country is currently forming a comprehensive management system for autonomous vehicles covering road testing, demonstration and application, market access and on-road operation. In terms of road testing and demonstration and application, in July 2021, the MPS jointly issued a document with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and the MOT, clearly stipulating the requirements for entities, drivers and vehicles involved in the technical testing and demonstration and application of autonomous vehicles on public roads, as well as the management of road testing and demonstration and application, and the handling of traffic violations and accidents. In terms of market access pilot program and on-road operation, in November 2023, the MPS jointly issued regulations with the MIIT and other departments, conducting a pilot program of market access for autonomous vehicle products that have undergone technical testing and are ready for mass production. Autonomous vehicles included in the MIIT's announcement after the access pilot program can purchase insurance, get registered and conduct pilot tests for on-road operation within designated areas. In addition, in the pilot application of the vehicle-road-cloud collaborative system, the MPS jointly issued a notice with the MIIT and other departments, refining and improving relevant management measures for road traffic safety management and cybersecurity.

On the other hand, we are also actively promoting the revision of the Road Traffic Safety Law. Detailed regulations have been established regarding road testing of self-driving cars, their on-road passage, traffic violations, accident handling and the pursuit of related responsibilities. Currently, the revision of the Road Traffic Safety Law has been included in the State Council's 2024 annual legislative agenda and the first category of the legislative plan of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress.

Additionally, we are proactively advancing the formulation and revision of relevant technical standards. In the areas of registration management, identity authentication, and safety and road traffic management for autonomous driving, we are actively promoting the development of eight national standards, including technical requirements for driving safety tests for intelligent and connected vehicles, as well as 10 public safety industry standards, such as elements and setup requirements for driving safety tests on public roads of intelligent and connected vehicles. We are also working closely with the MIIT and other departments to promote the establishment of a unified national technical standard system for autonomous vehicles.

Next, the MPS will balance development and security, actively cooperating with the MIIT, the MOT and other relevant authorities. We will promote the advancement of the autonomous driving industry and the transformation and upgrading of the automotive industry in a legal, secure, steady and orderly manner, serving the high-quality economic development of our country. Thank you.

CNR News:

We are aware that public security authorities play a crucial role in safeguarding ecological safety. To better protect our lucid waters and lush mountains, what specific measures will the public security authorities take in the future to combat eco-environmental crimes? What progress has been made? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Environmental and ecological protection is indeed a matter of high concern for all sectors of society. I would like to invite Mr. Li to answer your questions.

Li Jiantao:

Thank you for your interest. In recent years, the public security authorities have resolutely implemented the spirit of General Secretary Xi Jinping's important instructions on eco-environmental protection, always adhering to the strictest systems and most rigorous rule of law to protect the ecological environment. In conjunction with relevant departments, they have effectively cracked down on environmental and resource crimes in accordance with the law. From January to July of this year, a total of over 30,000 criminal cases involving the environment and resources were filed and investigated nationwide. Our work primarily focuses on the following three key areas:

To prevent and control pollution, the public security authorities have lawfully cracked down on environmental pollution crimes. In collaboration with the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and other relevant departments, we have continuously carried out special operations to combat environmental crimes related to hazardous waste and to rectify issues of falsification by third-party environmental protection service institutions. A total of over 1,600 criminal cases involving environmental pollution have been investigated and dealt with. For instance, based on clues from the "Oct. 25" environmental pollution case in Hechi, Guangxi, the MPS organized public security authorities in Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi and other regions to conduct thorough investigations, dismantling a gang involved in environmental pollution crimes that spanned seven provinces and regions, and lawfully disposing of thousands of metric tons of electronic waste.

In the protection of biodiversity and natural resources, we have lawfully cracked down on crimes that damage environmental resources. We have closely monitored criminal activities such as endangering precious and near-extinct wildlife, and illegal hunting and fishing, continuously increasing our crackdown efforts. From January to July of this year, we filed and investigated over 16,000 criminal cases in these areas. The MPS organized public security authorities in 21 provinces and regions to carry out a"May 22" special operation for concentrated crackdown on illegal hunting, filing and investigating over 800 criminal cases, and delivering a heavy blow to the arrogance of the criminals. In collaboration with relevant departments, we have launched special operations such as the Chunfeng (spring breeze) action, lawfully cracking down on crimes such as damaging ancient trees and famous wood species, endangering national key protected plants, and illegal sand and mineral mining, filing and investigating over 8,800 criminal cases, and effectively protecting the safety of forests and mineral resources.

In ensuring national food security, we have lawfully cracked down on crimes that damage arable land. We have implemented the strictest arable land protection system with tough measures, actively participated in joint departmental enforcement, and lawfully cracked down on related crimes. From January to July of this year, public security authorities nationwide filed and investigated 3,600 criminal cases of destruction of arable land and other types of agricultural land. The MPS organized public security authorities in Inner Mongolia, Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang to carry out regional campaigns against criminal damage of black soil. The number of such cases solved this year has doubled compared to the same period last year, effectively protecting black soil, also known as the "giant panda in cultivated land." At the same time, we have continued to crack down on the manufacture and sale of counterfeit and substandard seeds, chemical fertilizers and pesticides and other agricultural input related crimes, filing and investigating over 160 criminal cases, and effectively ensuring agricultural production.

Next, the public security authorities will deeply practice the concept that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, accelerate the establishment of an ecological policing mechanism led by public security departments and involving joint operations with relevant departments, conduct end-to-end crackdowns on illegal and criminal activities, comprehensively protect lucid waters and lush mountains, as well as support green development throughout the entire process, facilitating the Beautiful China Initiative by ensuring security. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

With the continuous improvement of living standards in rural areas, the demand for vehicles is also increasing. What measures have the MPS taken to improve transport management and better meet the needs of rural residents for vehicle use and convenient administrative services, and what progress has been made? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you. I would like to invite Mr. Wang to answer the questions.

Wang Qiang:

Thank you for your interest. With the comprehensive advancement of rural revitalization in recent years, the number of vehicles and drivers in rural areas has been growing rapidly at a rate in excess of 10 million a year. Currently, the number of motor vehicles and drivers in rural areas of China accounts for more than 50% of the national total. In order to better support the rural revitalization strategy, the MPS has instructed local public security authorities to further refine service measures, comprehensively extend traffic management services to rural areas, and better meet the needs of rural residents for convenient services.

First, we have further delegated traffic management duties to county-level authorities. Duties such as compact car registration and driver's license tests have been delegated to traffic management departments of county-level public security authorities at a faster rate. By the end of this July, 90% of counties and county-level cities nationwide have carried out compact car registration and 55% of them have carried out all-subject driver's license tests for compact cars. These efforts have significantly relieved the burden on rural residents who would have travelled back and forth to access these services. Meanwhile, we have further expanded the scope of duty for county-level vehicle administration offices. We have piloted registration services for medium-sized passenger cars and above in 174 county-level vehicle administration offices, providing residents with easy access to such service near their homes. At the same time, more efforts have been made to make county-level vehicle administration offices more standardized and better structured. We have improved facilities at county-level service centers, optimizing their service environment, implementing measures such as requiring no forms and copies at service windows and continuing to increase their service quality. 

Considering the frequent usage of motorbikes in rural areas, we have further improved the management of the driver's license test for motorbikes. We have upgraded the question bank for the motorbike license test and increased scenario-based questions with pictures, making the test more practical and targeted. We have also put forward measures like test appointments and carrying out tests in rural areas to help people living in rural areas be able to take the test and receive driving licenses more conveniently near their homes. 

In addition, considering the comparatively large number of traffic security risks in rural areas, we have focused on increasing the awareness and capabilities for people living in rural areas to proactively prevent such risks. Publicity and education are essential to further spread traffic security knowledge and enhance traffic civility throughout rural areas. Therefore, in recent years, we have taken further actions, such as publicity and education, to promote public awareness of road traffic security, compiling a brochure series of traffic security knowledge in rural areas. We have also worked with publicity departments, agriculture and rural affairs authorities, as well as other government organs, to launch the Beautiful Countryside Circuit Tour. By means of traffic security promotion wagons, experience camps, lectures and rural broadcasts, we have disseminated legal knowledge and protection tips involving traffic security among thousands of households throughout rural areas. By doing so, we have promoted the spread of law-based governance and traffic security knowledge in rural areas through multiple channels, influencing 430 million local people and strengthening public support for traffic civility. Thank you.

Beijing Youth Daily:

We have noted that the MPS has launched summer crackdown campaigns to maintain law and order for three consecutive years. What are the arrangements for this year's summer campaign? What is the progress so far? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

I will answer these questions. In June 2022, taking regular patterns and characteristics of cases often found in summer into consideration, the MPS Party Committee deployed all public security organs across the country to carry out a "100-day campaign" to crack down on illegal and criminal activities while maintaining law and order. This campaign successfully safeguarded social security and stability during the summer, winning public appreciation and becoming a highlight of the public security organs' contribution to maintaining social stability and serving the people. As the reporter just mentioned, this is the third year for us to carry out the "summer campaign." Our aim is to safeguard the people's safety through efforts in maintaining law and order during the summer, so as to ensure high-quality development with a high level of security.

Since the start of this year's "summer campaign," all public security organs nationwide have comprehensively implemented combat, prevention, management, control and construction measures based on the integrated mechanism of "intelligence-command-action." So far, we have launched two rounds of centralized and unified inspections and publicizing activities during summer nights, addressing 491 cross-regional cases with long criminal chains and huge impacts, such as those involving pornography, gambling, drugs, food, medicine, the environment, telecom and online fraud as well as cybercrime. Through these efforts, the "summer campaign" has made clear progress, with many prominent criminal behaviors cracked down on in accordance with the law, emergency cases and accidents appropriately handled as well as risks and hidden dangers effectively eliminated. During the campaign, reported crimes and public security offenses received by the 110 hotline fell by 18.1% and 10.9%, respectively. During this year's "summer campaign," the MPS has used information technology to directly extract all data, easing the burden at the primary level and ensuring objectivity and truthfulness. 

Next, the MPS will direct local public security organs to work according to their own summertime social security conditions, take stronger and more effective measures to crack down hard on all kinds of prominent illegal and criminal behaviors as well as make every effort to safeguard the people's safety and overall social stability. Continuous efforts will be made to make sure the "summer campaign" meets set targets and delivers concrete results. Thank you.

Tide News:

The public is quite familiar with police stations. Whatever trouble occurs, people turn to police stations for help. Police stations are primary-level public security organs and a window that has more contact with the people. During the process of enhancing the urban and rural community governance system, how will you better leverage the role of police stations in serving the public? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

I would like to invite Mr. Qiu to answer this question.

Qiu Baoli:

This is indeed a pertinent question and I will answer it. Police stations are primary-level public security organs. Their police officers maintain the closest contact with residents and are most familiar with communities. In recent years, all urban and rural police stations have actively performed their duties in improving community governance, further promoting a community policing strategy in urban and rural areas as well as fully integrating with community self-governance and grid-based management. Relying on Party organizations at the community level, we have mobilized more than 23 million people in public participation in crime prevention and control, cultivated over 20,000 social organizations that help safeguard social security and carried out various safety activities, significantly promoting social harmony and stability at the grassroot level. Particularly, public security organs at ministerial and provincial levels have nominated 2,082 "Fengqiao-style police stations," applying and further developing the Fengqiao model for promoting community-level governance in the new era. Social disputes at the community level are numerous and wide ranging, accounting for more than 50% of reported cases received and handled by public security organs. Considering this, we have guided police stations to establish and improve mechanisms that align courts with police stations as well as station mediators and lawyers in police stations. By doing so, we have resolved social disputes through multiple channels and promoted comprehensive prevention and treatment of risks. As a result, more than six million cases of social disputes have been addressed annually, and more than 12 million requests for assistance from the public have been handled.

Going forward, the MPS will provide guidance for the public security organs nationwide to implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and carry out the three-year work plan for police stations nationwide to enhance their work. We will promote further collaboration between the police and the public, and improve the primary-level governance system in rural and urban areas. We will implement the "Police Officers Visit Households" campaign, and organize the "Five Prevention" community outreach campaign, which involves engaging with local communities to promote awareness and the prevention of theft, fraud, drug abuse, conflicts and disputes, and public security incidents. By doing so, we are able to better respond to public concerns, and reduce crime and cases in communities. In this way, the police and the public will work together to create a safe and secure environment. We will dedicate ourselves to building "Fengqiao-style police stations," adhering to the mass line guided by exemplary models. We will promote effective Fengqiao-style practices to proactively address conflicts and risks, provide services for residents in communities, and consolidate the foundation of primary-level governance. To achieve the full coverage of "one police officer responsible for one village (grid)," we will equip villages (or communities) with auxiliary police officers or police assistants, and develop it with grid-based management and public services in synergy to jointly improve primary-level governance. We will boost public participation in activities such as patrols, encouraging neighbors to look out for each other, offering help for those in need, and providing educational programs. By doing so, we aim to foster a community of social governance based on collaboration, participation and shared benefits. We will actively participate in primary-level governance, and deepen the reform of establishing one comprehensive command room and two teams of police officers working in communities and as law enforcers, advancing the construction of the fundamental management center, and improving the collaboration mechanism between police stations, specialized police units and primary-level organizations. By doing so, we will ensure that police stations perform their duties in a more standardized, regulated and professional manner. Moreover, we will encourage directors of police stations to be part of the leading groups of towns, townships and communities, and encourage community police officers to be part of the leading groups of villages and communities, so as to enable them to conduct proactive and preventive policing in communities. Thank you. 

China News Service:

The protection of intellectual property (IP) is crucial for high-quality development, and strictly protecting IP will encourage greater enthusiasm for scientific and technological innovation. What efforts have the public security organs made to crack down on infringements, counterfeiting and other illegal activities infringing on IP rights? What achievements have been made in this regard? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you for your questions. Mr. Li Jiantao, as the chairperson said previously, is director general of the Bureau of Environmental, Resource, Food and Drug Crime Investigation. He is also director general of the Bureau of Intellectual Property Crime Investigation. As such, I'd like to invite Mr. Li to answer this question. 

Li Jiantao:

Thank you for your concern. In recent years, the public security organs nationwide have prioritized the protection of IP rights. We have organized the "Kunlun" series of special campaigns for six consecutive years to crack down on all kinds of crimes infringing on IP rights in accordance with the law, providing sound legal support for fostering new quality productive forces and promoting high-quality development. In June this year, the Bureau of Environmental, Resource, Food and Drug Crime Investigation of the MPS was given an additional title of the Bureau of Intellectual Property Crime Investigation in a bid to encourage the public security organs across the country to strengthen their professional teams, and provide more guidance for the endeavors to crack down on IP rights infringements. From January to July this year, public security organs across China have filed and investigated 21,000 cases of IP infringements and counterfeits. To be more specific, we have made efforts in the following aspects:

First, we have been firmly committed to the principle of strict measures in accordance with law. We have launched intensive crackdowns on violations of IP rights which the public are concerned about, including the production and sale of counterfeit goods, counterfeiting and piracy, so as to maintain a high level of deterrence against such crimes. Moreover, in order to meet the needs of sci-tech innovation and their industrial development, we have stepped up our efforts to combat infringements of commercial secrets and patent counterfeiting in the fields of new technologies, new industries and new business formats. Notably, we have intensified our efforts to tighten regulations on the filing of criminal cases related to infringements of commercial secrets, providing effective solutions to the pressing difficulties faced by some enterprises in reporting and collecting evidence for such types of cases. 

As Mr. Qi said, we have upheld and fulfilled the commitments to the public and non-public sectors, and made optimizing the business environment a top priority, protecting the legitimate rights and interests of all businesses in a law-based and equitable manner. As such, we are able to help build a market-oriented, law-based and international business environment. We have been committed to proactive and preventive policing. Given the problem of weak self-protection awareness among some enterprises, we have promoted some experiences and practices, such as the practices of the Zhejiang police which have specifically designated police officers to deal with IP-related policing matters and the practices of the Changsha Public Security Bureau in Hunan province which set up work stations in enterprises to protect their IP. By doing so, we aim to intervene, detect and deal with infringement risks as early as possible, so as to help enterprises improve their self-protection capabilities. 

IP protection is intertwined with a wide range of fields. As a result, we have attached great importance to inter-departmental coordination, so as to establish a collaborative work model that leverages professional expertise, mobilizes entire police forces, and fosters inter-departmental collaboration, and public participation. We have worked with departments responsible for IP, market regulation and copyright to enhance the connection between administrative law enforcement and criminal justice, and make joint efforts to launch crackdown campaigns. We have promoted the advanced experiences of Beijing's collaborative law enforcement mechanism, which combines the law enforcement forces of the public security organs and administrative departments, to ensure information sharing, joint analysis and decision-making, as well as mutual transfer of cases, so as to establish a collaborative governance mechanism.

In order to better fulfill our responsibilities for ensuring criminal protection of IP rights, we have been working to enhance our capabilities. This includes strengthening our foundational work in law enforcement systems, intelligence and investigative techniques. Therefore, a work system which is well-equipped to address practical matters has taken shape. Since last year, we have been actively promoting the practices of the Fujian Provincial Department of Public Security in setting up doctoral work stations to develop investigative techniques for IP protection. This has been helpful in strengthening professional and scientific research, and fostering specialized talents and top-notch investigation teams in different fields, which will improve our capabilities in overcoming difficulties. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

There are still many questions, but we will take two final questions due to time constraints.

Haibao News:

In recent years, the rapid development of social media and new media has made life more convenient but also accelerated the spread of rumors. These online rumors mislead the public, damage the reputations of individuals and businesses, and disrupt social order. How are public security departments combating this issue? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Mr. Wang will answer this question.

Wang Qiang:

Thank you, I'll take this question. As the journalist suggests, the "attention economy" has significantly increased the scope, speed, frequency and impact of online rumors in recent years, along with their social harm. In response, the MPS has prioritized this issue, directing public security departments nationwide to conduct special operations to combat and rectify online rumors. I'd like to take this opportunity to share our progress in these efforts this year:

First, we have taken strong action against self-media operators who create rumors to attract followers and make illegal profits. So far this year, public security agencies have investigated over 22,000 cases related to online rumors, dealt with over 25,000 individuals involved in spreading rumors, shut down more than 160,000 illegal accounts, and removed over 1.32 million pieces of false information from the internet.

Second, we've focused on uncovering and cracking down on organized online activities. These include "internet water armies" and hordes of fake online accounts companies and celebrities use to inflate their social media followings or criticize rivals. We've also targeted multi-channel networks that manipulate and spread rumors for profit. We have investigated 623 cases and arrested 3,397 individuals involved in such activities.

Third, we have strongly emphasized debunking rumors through public awareness campaigns. We use various methods, including police briefings, press conferences, media reports, publishing typical cases, and hosting publicity events to raise public awareness. So far, we have made over 3,600 typical cases public.

Finally, we've strengthened comprehensive governance measures for website platforms. Using major rumor cases as starting points, we've identified and rectified vulnerabilities on websites and platforms. We've taken action against 1,036 platforms and conducted individual interviews with key platforms for further rectification to enhance governance and regulations. Thank you.

China Central Television (CCTV):

According to the resolution made by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, China will deepen international law enforcement cooperation in the realm of security, so as to protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens and legal entities overseas. How do public security authorities engage in this cooperation and contribute to global security governance? Thank you.

Qi Yanjun:

Thank you for your question. In recent years, the public security authorities have actively implemented the Global Security Initiative, strengthening cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide. We've established cooperation mechanisms with foreign law enforcement bodies and conducted joint operations to combat transnational crime. These efforts protect China's overseas interests and firmly safeguard our national sovereignty, security, and development interests. At the same time, we've also proposed new concepts and approaches for security governance to the international community. We're sharing our achievements and experiences in building the rule of law and advancing the Peaceful China Initiative, while actively participating in global public security governance. I would also like to highlight that from Sept. 8 to 10, the Conference of Global Public Security Cooperation Forum will be held in Lianyungang. The forum has garnered significant global attention, with many high-level participants from numerous countries, demonstrating its wide-reaching influence. Our continuous efforts to strengthen international law enforcement cooperation are evident in initiatives like our collaboration with the Myanmar police to combat telecom fraud in northern Myanmar. Through effective cooperation, Myanmar authorities have transferred 10 major telecom fraud ringleaders, including Bai Suocheng, to China. To date, more than 50,000 suspects involved in telecom fraud in northern Myanmar have been arrested. Additionally, we have launched joint operations to combat crimes in the "Golden Triangle" region, working closely with law enforcement agencies in Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and other countries to crack down on transnational crimes that affect Chinese interests.

Moving forward, public security authorities will focus on these four areas:

First, we will strengthen cooperation. We'll work to establish closer, more practical bilateral law enforcement partnerships with foreign counterparts, signing cooperation agreements, setting up liaison hotlines, and establishing regular meeting mechanisms. These efforts will lay a solid foundation for combating transnational crime and protecting China's legitimate overseas interests. We'll also constructively participate in multilateral law enforcement organizations such as the United Nations, Interpol, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and regional law enforcement bodies, contributing China's wisdom and solutions to global public security governance.

Second, we will intensify crackdowns on transnational crimes that are particularly harmful to the public, such as online gambling, telecom fraud, and other severe offenses like kidnapping, murder and gang crimes involving Chinese citizens abroad. We'll strengthen practical cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies in investigating cases, exchanging evidence, and apprehending and repatriating suspects. By leveraging Interpol's resources, we will maintain a high-pressure stance against all forms of transnational crime affecting Chinese interests.

Third, we will enhance protection. We will coordinate closely with foreign law enforcement agencies to intensify the protection of Chinese institutions, personnel, and interests abroad. In European countries with a high concentration of Chinese tourists, we'll continue to conduct joint patrols with local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, we will collaborate with relevant departments to strengthen security training and risk assessments for Chinese enterprises overseas, improving their risk awareness and response capabilities.

Additionally, we actively participate in U.N. peacekeeping operations. Since the 19th CPC National Congress, the MPS has dispatched peacemaking police officers to seven U.N. mission areas and the U.N. headquarters. Chinese peacekeeping police have faithfully fulfilled their duties, strictly adhering to U.N. regulations and local laws. They've significantly contributed to peace and stability in mission areas, earning widespread praise. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Qi and other speakers. Thank you to the friends from the media for attending this press conference. Today's conference is now concluded. Goodbye.

Qi Yanjun:

Thanks to the friends from the media for your interest in and support for our work. Thank you.

Translated and edited by Liu Sitong, Wang Wei, Xu Kailin, Li Huiru, Wang Ziteng, Huang Shan, Yang Chuanli, Li Xiao, Zhou Jing, Gong Yingchun, Yuan Fang, Guo Yiming, Ma Yujia, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers: 

Mr. Ni Hong, minister of housing and urban-rural development

Mr. Dong Jianguo, vice minister of housing and urban-rural development

Mr. Qin Haixiang, vice minister of housing and urban-rural development

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 23, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Ni Hong, minister of housing and urban-rural development, to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Dong Jianguo and Mr. Qin Haixiang, both vice ministers of housing and urban-rural development.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Ni for his introduction. 

Ni Hong:

Ladies and gentlemen, I'm very glad to meet you here and brief you on the high-quality development of housing and urban-rural development, and to answer your questions.

First of all, on behalf of the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development (MHURD), I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your long-term interest in and support for the housing and urban-rural development.

High-quality development is a primary task in building China into a modern socialist country in all respects and a top priority in the new era. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the MHURD has thoroughly implemented General Secretary Xi Jinping's important instructions and directives on housing and urban-rural development. We have fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, taken solid steps, and forged ahead in a pioneering spirit. As a result, new milestones have been achieved in promoting high-quality development of housing and urban-rural development, contributing to the advancement of Chinese modernization.

I would like to highlight three key aspects:

First, in terms of housing and real estate, we have continuously improved real estate policies and refined the housing support system, striving to ensure all people have access to housing. By the end of 2023, the per capita floor space of urban residents exceeded 40 square meters; a total of over 64 million units of various government-subsidized housing and rebuilt housing in run-down urban areas were constructed, providing dwellings for more than 150 million people. All eligible families on subsistence allowances and low-income families struggling with housing have basically had access to housing. 

Second, in terms of urban areas, we have made solid efforts in advancing the urban renewal project, renovated old urban residential compounds and accelerated urban infrastructure construction, striving to promote high-quality urban development. By the end of 2023, the urban built-up area in China reached 64,000 square kilometers, and the proportion of permanent urban residents in the total population stood at 66.16%, meaning that over 930 million people live in urban areas. Urban functions and living environments have continued to improve. A total of over 250,000 old urban residential compounds have been renovated, benefiting over 44 million households and approximately 110 million people. 

Third, in terms of the construction industry, we have deepened reforms, and made the sector more industrialized, digitalized and environmentally friendly, so as to contribute to economic growth and better living standards. In 2023, the total output value of the construction industry reached 31.6 trillion yuan, and its value added reached 8.6 trillion yuan, accounting for 6.8% of the nation's GDP, and providing over 50 million jobs. 

Chinese modernization prioritizes people's livelihoods. A strong focus on people's well-being is the most prominent feature of our work in housing and urban-rural development. Looking ahead, we will thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress as well as the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Putting people first, we will focus on addressing the prominent problems that restrict the high-quality development of housing and urban-rural development, and take laying a solid foundation and deepening reforms as our main task. We will emphasize improving mechanisms, institutions and rule of law, and work toward providing green, low-carbon, smart and safe housing for the people. We will make coordinated efforts to advance various reforms in the housing and urban-rural sector, and speed up the fostering of a new development model for real estate. We will deeply implement the urban renewal project, and further promote the transformation and upgrading of the construction industry. Additionally, we will systematically develop "good houses, good residential compounds, good communities and good urban areas," build livable, resilient and smart cities, and promote common prosperity of urban and rural areas. Through these practical efforts, we aim to consistently meet people's aspirations for a better life and contribute to further deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization. 

Moving forward, we will focus on the following reform initiatives: 

First, we will foster a new development model for the real estate sector, which can be summarized in four aspects. First, in terms of concepts, we should deeply grasp the principle that housing is for living in and not for speculation, and build quality houses that cater to people's new aspirations. Second, in terms of systems, we will rely primarily on the government to meet the essential housing need, while leveraging the market to satisfy the diverse needs for better housing. Third, in terms of institutions, we will reform and improve the institutions for real estate development, transactions and utilization, laying a solid institutional foundation for real estate transformation. Fourth, in terms of resource allocation, we will foster a new mechanism that connects the elements of personnel, housing, land and financing. 

Currently, the real estate market is experiencing significant changes in its supply and demand dynamics and remains in an adjustment period. However, with the implementation of various policies, positive changes have begun to emerge in the market. Considering China's ongoing urbanization process and the public's new expectations for quality housing, the real estate market still holds substantial potential and room for growth. As long as we maintain firm confidence, effectively implement city-specific policies, we can promote stable and healthy real estate market development.

Second, we will establish new urban planning, development and governance mechanisms. We will uphold the principle that cities should be built by and for the people, meeting new demands as urban development transforms to urban renewal. We will further deepen urban planning, development and governance reform and institute sustainable urban renewal models and related policies and regulations. We will insist on an approach that conducts examinations and identifies problems first, then solves them as the priorities of urban renewal. We aim to create welcoming and resilient smart cities, enabling the people to enjoy more convenient, comfortable and fulfilling lives.

Third, we will promote the transformation and upgrading of the construction industry. We will insist on the guidance on standards and technological empowerment, focusing on reforming and improving a package of basic institutions regarding bidding on construction projects, project supervision, construction cost, completion acceptance and more. We will strive to create a modern construction industry system and shape a business environment upholding good faith conduct, legal compliance, and fair competition while pursuing quality. We will promote the high-quality development of the construction sector to provide high-quality construction products for society.

That's all I have to say for now. Next, we are happy to take questions from the media.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Ni. Now, the floor is open for questions. Please state the news organization you represent before asking your question. You may now raise your hand to be called upon.

People's Daily:

The central authorities urged swift action to foster a new development model for the real estate sector. Last month, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made clear requirements regarding this. How has this work progressed so far? What are your further considerations? Thank you.

Ni Hong:

Thank you for the questions. After the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee proposed fostering a new development model for the real estate sector, people have been paying close attention to this issue. We have been working with relevant departments to explore how to carry out this work. Mr. Dong will answer the questions.

Dong Jianguo:

The question from the People's Daily reporter addresses the acceleration of constructing a new development model for the real estate sector. This is a major deployment put forward by the CPC Central Committee to adapt to the trends of new urbanization and the significant changes in the supply-demand relationship of the real estate market. It's also a fundamental strategy to prevent and defuse risks in real estate and achieve high-quality development in the sector. The current development model of the real estate sector evolved gradually over a long period. Similarly, fostering a new development model will take time and needs to keep exploring new practices. Together with relevant departments, we have earnestly implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, focusing on the following aspects:

First, we have improved the housing supply system. The key is to increase the construction and supply of government-subsidized housing. The State Council and relevant departments issued policy documents to guide local governments in deciding the construction and purchasing of housing according to demand, increasing the construction and supply of government-subsidized housing to satisfy the basic needs of salaried people for a home to live in.

Second, we have directed local governments to develop and implement both long-term and annual housing plans, creating a framework that aligns population, housing, land, and capital. After the MHURD issued a notice in February, different localities have gradually compiled and published annual housing development plans and started preliminary work and considerations for housing development plans for the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

Third, we have effectively promoted sales of completed housing in an orderly manner. We have guided local governments to select new real estate development projects, reach agreements for completed housing sales at the time of land transfer, and formulate supportive policies in line with local condition. Many localities have rolled out projects of completed housing sales, exploring the reform of commercial housing sales systems.

Fourth, we have implemented a coordinated urban real estate financing system and introduced a "white list" system, providing financial support for qualifying projects across various cities. Thanks to our efforts, the financing of real estate development enterprises is now based more on project-based assessments than corporate credit.

Fifth, we have explored and formulated systems for housing examination, housing pension and housing insurance system to establish long-term mechanisms for whole-life housing safety management. Currently, 22 cities, including Shanghai, are piloting this measure. Personal accounts have been set up through home buyers' payment for housing maintenance fund,. The focus of the pilot projects is for governments to set up public accounts.

Sixth, we built good houses that are eco-friendly, low-carbon, smart and safe. We have done some work in setting standards and examples. Next, we will also make efforts to establish systems and optimize services.

The new development model for the real estate sector is a model that emphasizes high-quality, coordinated and secure development. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee identified accelerating the establishment of this new development model as a key measure to further deepen reforms. We will work closely with relevant departments, summarizing recent pilot practices and further strengthening top-design. With a focus on ensuring secure housing for the people, we will accelerate reforms to improve fundamental systems related to commercial housing sales, land management, finance, and fiscal and taxation sector. Through these reforms, we will promote institutional innovation, foster this new development model and drive industrial development. We are committed to implementing this task assigned by the Party Central Committee to promote high-quality development of the real estate sector.

Thank you.

CCTV:

As people's lives become more diverse, their expectations for housing have also increased. The MHURD has repeatedly emphasized that the public should live in better homes. My question is: what considerations and plans do you have for creating good housing in the next phase? Thank you.

Ni Hong:

Thank you for your question. I believe everyone is concerned about good housing. I share this concern personally, as I also want to live in a good home. I would like to address this question from three perspectives.

First, why should we build good housing? Second, what defines good housing? Third, how do we build good housing?

First, why should we build good housing? The CPC's founding mission is to sought happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation. The simplest and most basic understanding of happiness is living and working in peace and contentment. To achieve this, good housing is essential. Providing good housing for the people is required for fulfilling our Party's mission. Second, our reforms and development efforts ultimately aim to improve people's lives. Housing development in our country has now entered a new phase, shifting from simply providing housing to focusing on the quality of housing. As I mentioned in the opening remarks, the average urban housing area now exceeds 40 square meters per person, and people have new expectations for the functionality and quality of their homes. Therefore, we should apply new-generation information technologies, green low-carbon technologies and innovative construction techniques as well as new products and materials to housing development. We should guide the real estate and construction industries to prioritize quality, new technologies and better services over speed and quantity, enabling a true transformation of these industries. The Party Central Committee has made requirements, and the people have their expectations, so the MHURD must take action.

Second, what defines good housing? This is a matter of personal perspective and varies from person to person. With socioeconomic development, advancements in technology and changes in people's needs, the concept of good housing is continuously evolving. Different eras have different definitions of good housing, and even with various sizes and price ranges, there are diverse interpretations of what makes a good house. Everyone has their own idea of what constitutes a good home. However, I believe there are four key characteristics:

First is being green, which means ensuring that people live in healthy environments. This involves several aspects closely related to living conditions, such as room height, indoor temperature, humidity, air quality and lighting, all of which impact physical and mental health. Therefore, a good home should provide comfort, which requires careful design and construction, including proper sealing of doors and windows and effective soundproofing of walls. Recently, the MHURD sought public input on housing requirements. Soundproofing was ranked first, followed by preventing odors in bathrooms and leaks and cracks. Building a good home means addressing these concerns.

Second is being low-carbon, which means saving money for residents and conserving energy for society. How can we save money? In the construction sector, there are three stages: the production of building materials, the construction process and the full lifecycle utilization process, all of which involve energy and carbon consumption. A good house should be of high quality, perform well and have a long lifespan. Additionally, throughout its lifecycle, it should be more efficient in saving water, electricity, gas and energy, thus reducing costs and expenses for residents while also contributing to the conservation of energy and reduction of carbon for society.

The third feature is smart, bringing greater convenience to residents. With electric vehicles now being highly digitized and serving as mobile terminals, we envision "good houses" as larger non-mobile smart terminals, encompassing numerous application scenarios. For example, smart sensing technologies can monitor and adjust indoor conditions such as temperature, brightness, humidity and air quality based on specific needs. Furthermore, intelligent control allows for hands-free operation of doors, windows, lights, air conditioning and other household appliances through voice commands or sensors. Smart appliances, like smart refrigerators, will in the future notify us of low food supplies, reminding us to purchase essentials like eggs on our way home from work. Such systems can also alert residents about expired food. Therefore, I am confident that there are no limits to what we can accomplish. Consequently, in the construction of "good houses," we have allocated substantial space for technological innovation.

The fourth feature is safety, ensuring residents can live with peace of mind. This encompasses several aspects: structural integrity of buildings, designed to be robust and disaster-resistant; operational safety of utilities and systems, where sensors on water, electricity, gas and heating systems, including elevators, are installed to trigger alerts during faults or emergencies; and personal security of residents, where smart interconnected systems can detect unusual activities, ensuring the elderly and children enjoy enhanced safety while at home.

The concept of the "good house" still needs further innovations and adjustments through practice. As such, we invite all areas of society and friends from the media to make contributions and jointly explore ways to promote the construction of better houses.

Third, how do we build "good houses"? This task represents a systematic project, a novel application scenario and an emerging industry that could potentially establish a new competitive arena. These endeavors are not only crucial for satisfying people's living requirements, but are also instrumental in boosting domestic demand and ensuring economic stability through concentrated efforts in the following five main areas:

First, "good houses" must adhere to exemplary standards. We must refine our standards framework, enhancing criteria across designs, materials, construction and equipment. This includes improving standards for accessibility, senior-friendly features and smart technologies.

Second, "good houses" must be well designed. We will direct designers to carefully craft each structure, ensuring optimal utility and value for every square meter of houses.

Third, "good houses" require top-quality materials. We are committed to promoting the research and application of innovative materials, extensively developing eco-friendly construction materials, and consistently improving the performance of building materials in areas such as thermal insulation, heat shielding, waterproofing and environmental protection.

Fourth, "good houses" need excellent construction practices. We will intensify our application of technology, advocating for modern construction methods such as green and intelligent building techniques, aspiring to construct "good houses" with the precision and quality used in automobile manufacturing.

Fifth, "good houses" must have good services. We will advance residential services, significantly improving property management, and bolstering both online and offline support for services including elder care, child care and domestic help.

Our goal for new constructions is to create "good houses," whereas for existing structures, we plan to transform them into "good houses" through urban renewal initiatives.

After establishing "good houses," our broader vision extends to creating "good neighborhoods, good communities and good urban districts," to ensure that citizens live in greater comfort and peace of mind. Thank you.

The New Times: 

In recent years, urban renewal has gained significant attention across various regions, with many cities trending on social media due to their enhanced aesthetics and post-renewal charm. Could you share some successful experiences in urban renewal? What initiatives are planned next? Thank you.

Ni Hong: 

Urban renewal is an inevitable process in the development of cities. Existing buildings now far exceed new buildings. Therefore, maintaining the functionality and utility of these existing buildings through urban renewal is essential. Moreover, this process requires comprehensive reforms spanning planning, construction and management. Mr. Qin oversees this area, so I would like to invite him to answer this question.

Qin Haixiang: 

Thank you. Urban renewal operations are of great concern to us all. Implementing these actions is crucial for transforming urban development models and achieving high-quality development. This initiative was decisively outlined during the fifth plenary session of the 19th CPC Central Committee. Over recent years, we have consistently applied a two-pronged approach of addressing both issues and objectives: deploying policies, initiating pilot projects, and managing key efforts to solidly advance urban renewal nationwide. These efforts have yielded substantial results.

Allow me to briefly introduce some of the main tasks being undertaken in our urban renewal initiatives:

First, we have made a big push to renovate old urban residential compounds. This is an important part of urban renewal initiatives. In recent years, we have focused on serving the people, delivering convenience and security. We have launched three campaigns to improve residential conditions and living environments, namely, "corridor revolution," "environmental revolution" and "management revolution," which have achieved positive results. Since 2019, China has started the renovation of 258,800 old urban residential compounds, benefiting 44.34 million households and around 110 million residents. During this process, we have upgraded 326,000 kilometers of old pipelines for water, electricity, gas and heating, have installed 125,000 elevators and have added 72,700 community service facilities for elderly and child care. At the same time, we have implemented energy-saving renovations to 423 million square meters of buildings and have added 3.6 million parking spaces, 117,000 electric vehicle charging piles, 755,000 e-bike charging piles as well as over 28 million square meters of cultural, recreational and sports venues. While renovating old residential compounds, we have focused on small-scale projects to enhance people's overall wellbeing. Continuous efforts have been made to boost the construction of parks, green spaces and sports facilities near residential areas, including over 40,000 pocket parks and more than 100,000 kilometers of urban green paths. A total of 11,000 hectares of lawn has opened to the public in 6,100 parks, providing citizens with a greater connection to nature and more opportunities for outdoor activities and sports, making our cities more livable.

Second, we have accelerated the upgrading of urban underground pipelines. These initiatives are crucial for enhancing our cities' resilience and safeguarding people's lives and property. In recent years, we have guided localities to upgrade about 100,000 kilometers of pipelines for gas and water supply as well as sewage. Along with the upgrading, we have implemented urban lifeline safety projects by installing intelligent sensing devices to improve our capabilities for monitoring the safety of urban pipelines and bridges as well as conducting early warnings. These efforts have eliminated many security risks and shifted the infrastructure risk control method from passive response to proactive prevention, making our cities more resilient.

Third, we have been actively promoting the construction of smart cities. This is an essential requirement for modern urban development and governance. In recent years, we have strengthened coordination and increased efforts to build a city information modeling platform and an urban operation management service platform. These efforts have enhanced precise and scientific urban management and have promoted new urban infrastructure construction based on digital, internet-based and smart-tech development, making our cities smarter.

Of course, implementing urban renewal initiatives is a long-term task. For the next step, we will earnestly implement the decisions and requirements from the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Guided by the principle that cities should be built by the people and for the people, we will establish a sustainable urban renewal model and policy regulations to create livable, resilient and smart cities. This is an important reform task outlined at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Guided by scientific principles, the laws of nature and the reality, we will work to pursue high-quality implementation of urban renewal initiatives. 

Our approach to urban renewal involves three key mechanisms: First, we will create and improve new institutions and mechanisms for urban renewal, which will be demand oriented and project based. Currently we are at a stage of upgrading existing resources, which with diverse participants and demands have brought great changes. We should pursue improved existing resources, a more complete range of functions and higher quality in light of actual demands. Second, we will carry out "physical examinations" for cities before urban renewal actions. We will establish and improve a working mechanism to implement "urban physical examinations" and urban renewal initiatives in a holistic way. Particularly, we should take the problems found through these "examinations" as the focus of urban renewal to solve pressing problems that impact people the most as well as shortcomings and weak links that affect cities' competitiveness, carrying capacity, security and sustainable development. Third, we will establish a policy coordination mechanism. We will improve relevant supporting policies in finance, taxation, land use and other fields, encourage the participation of private capital and create new models for urban renewal investment and financing.

Specifically, we will systematically promote the development of good houses, good residential compounds, good communities and good urban districts. Mr. Ni just made an introduction in this regard. We will focus on the following areas:

First, we will continue efforts to renovate old urban residential compounds and resolve problems such as installing elevators, parking shortages and charging difficulties. This year our plan is to renovate more than 50,000 old residential compounds. Based on this, a number of complete communities will be built as well as old blocks and old factory areas will be restored.

Second, we will constantly upgrade cities' "inner" constructions, mainly focusing on underground pipelines and cables. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made decisions and arrangements for strengthening the building of underground utility tunnels and the upgrading of old pipelines. This year, old pipelines with a total length of over 100,000 km are scheduled to be upgraded.

Third, we will vigorously promote the construction of safety projects regarded as lifeblood within cities. We will use digital measures to advance real-time monitoring on various public facilities including water supply, drainage, gas, heating, bridge and utility tunnels. In doing so, early detection, early warning and early disposal of security hazards will guarantee the safe operation of our cities.

Fourth, we will promote urban waterlogging control and have plans to remove the risk of flooding and waterlogging at more than 1,000 highly vulnerable points in 100 cities this year. We will accelerate the systematic construction of urban drainage and waterlogging prevention, and coordinate urban flood and waterlogging controls. An integrated operation and management mode, covering cities' water systems, drainage networks, and surrounding rivers, lakes, seas and reservoirs, will be set up and improved to make cities more capable for flood prevention and more resilient for safe operation. Thank you.

Jimu News:

At present, China's property market is in the process of adjustment and transformation. Could you brief us on the work that has been carried out and the progress that has been made in ensuring the delivery of housing for commercial housing projects? Thank you.

Dong Jianguo:

Thanks for your question. Ensuring the timely delivery of housing is a significant deployment made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. It is not only important work to guarantee people's livelihood and to effectively protect the legitimate rights and interests of property buyers, but also conducive to meeting various expectation, boosting confidence in the real estate market as well as preventing and mitigating relevant risks.

On May 17, the State Council held a teleconference to ensure the delivery of housing projects, and made overall deployments on this regard. The MHURD and relevant departments held a briefing at the SCIO on the afternoon of May 17, introducing and interpreting policies on this issue. After the briefing, a series of policies and measures on stabilizing the property market were released, and we stepped up work to promote the delivery of housing in an orderly manner. As a result of city-specific measures being implemented, the country's real estate market has seen positive changes.

To better ensure the delivery of commercial housing projects, the MHURD and the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA) have carried out a campaign to comprehensively check the commercial housing projects under construction that have been sold but not yet delivered within the country. There are 3.96 million housing units nationwide that were supposed to be delivered in accordance with contracts by the end of this year. In order to accomplish this goal, we have worked energetically on the following aspects.

First, policies have been enforced to create synergy. At the national level, the MHURD and the NFRA have implemented the requirements of the overall plan on effectively ensuring the delivery of housing projects, jointly formulated policy documents and organized training on relevant policies for local governments and relevant departments. We have also specified work arrangements on ensuring the housing delivery and enhanced the effectiveness of the urban real estate financing coordination mechanisms. The Supreme People's Court has clarified supporting judicial measures for these issues, such as prudently taking property preservation measures for the real estate "white list" projects. At the local level, municipal governments were asked to introduce city-level action plans, make detailed arrangements and prepare specific disposal approaches for different projects in line with local conditions. Some provinces have formulated provincial overall plans on ensuring the delivery of housing projects, defining objectives and supporting measures.

Second, urban real estate financing coordination mechanisms have played a vital role. We have established a three-tier coordination mechanism at the national, provincial and municipal levels, and included all the eligible projects into the "white list." Commercial banks have be asked to ensure that those who have fulfilled their duties are not held accountable, and provide financial support for all qualified lenders. At present, more than 5,300 projects on the "white list" and loans valued at roughly 1.4 trillion yuan have been approved by Chinese commercial banks in accordance with approval procedures. These funds are being released in line with the progress of the projects, which strongly support their construction and delivery.

Third, we have followed the principle of "one project, one policy" to deal with projects by type. We have guided local governments to implement a disposal approach that assigns each project a different action plan, a special group, a bank, an auditor and a judge. This approach was first piloted in Zhengzhou, and is scheduled to expand throughout the country. For eligible projects, we include them into the "white list," and provide them with financial support to ensure their construction and timely delivery. For insolvent projects, we accelerate the bankruptcy and reorganization or liquidation of project development enterprises, and give priority to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of home buyers in accordance with the Supreme People's Court's regulations on debt repayment.

Fourth, we have made efforts to ensure the quality and timely delivery of projects. The goal of ensuring the delivery of homes is to hand over houses that meet the delivery conditions to buyers. We have established a national system for ensuring home delivery. Each delivery task shall be completed according to the contract signed with each household registering with an ID number and a contact phone number, ensuring that the objectives are achieved down to each household and each buyer. As soon as a home is delivered, it is recorded and marked as completed. Meanwhile, we guide local authorities to strengthen the supervision of project quality to ensure that delivered projects meet the conditions for moving in and avoid discrepancies between what is promised and what is delivered. In addition, the Ministry of Natural Resources has issued supporting documents to address the issue of certification for home delivery projects, striving to ensure that property ownership certificates for such projects are issued as required.

Ensuring the delivery of homes concerns the vital interests of the public. People paid for their homes and should receive them. Next, the MHURD, together with relevant ministries, will resolutely implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We will always prioritize protecting the legitimate rights and interests of homebuyers, hold local governments, real estate developers and financial institutions accountable, take concrete measures, tackle difficulties and strive to ensure the successful delivery of commercial housing projects. Thank you. 

Cover News:

The urban work is closely related to the interests of the people, and has attracted great attention from all sectors of society. The reform resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed requirements for urban planning, construction and governance. What measures will be taken next? Thank you. 

Ni Hong:

Regarding the urban work, I would like to invite Mr. Qin to answer this question.

Qin Haixiang: 

Thank you for your question. Everyone is very concerned about urban construction and development since our cities are important carriers for advancing Chinese modernization. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council attach great importance to the urban work. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, General Secretary Xi Jinping has made a series of important remarks and instructions on urban work, guiding China's urban development to historic achievements. As Mr. Ni mentioned, China's urbanization rate has now reached 66.16%. The construction of urban infrastructure is accelerating, urban functions are continuously improving, and the carrying capacity of cities is steadily increasing. Our living environment has significantly improved, and cities have undergone great changes. People's sense of gain, happiness and security have significantly increased. 

Currently, urban development in China has entered a phase of urban renewal, shifting from large-scale incremental construction in the past to placing equal emphasis on quality improvement and renovation of its existing stock and structural adjustment of its increment. The urban development model has shifted from expanding the scale to improving the quality of cities. People now demand a higher standard of living, which requires us to adapt to the new development needs and further deepen reforms in urban planning, construction and governance. The 20th CPC National Congress has made important plans in these areas, and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has outlined key tasks for further deepening reform. We also feel a great sense of responsibility and will work with relevant parties to ensure effective implementation. 

There are several main considerations going forward.

First, we will thoroughly implement General Secretary Xi Jinping's important principle that "cities are built by the people and are for the people." We will take improving people's well-being as the starting point and goal of deepening reform, promote the implementation of urban renewal actions, solve the urgent and difficult problems facing the people, and continuously improve the quality of cities, making people's lives more convenient, comfortable and pleasant. 

Second, while adapting to the new requirements of high-quality development, we will shift our focus on reform from solving the problem of accessibility to improving quality. In the past, we mainly focused on accelerating construction, pursuing speed and scale. In the current stage of improving quality, we will strive to improve management capabilities and levels while continuing construction, and place greater emphasis on enhancing quality and efficiency. 

Third, we will deepen reforms in urban planning, construction and governance, and build a new mechanism that adapts to high-quality urban development. In terms of planning, we will adapt to practical needs of improving stock quality, optimizing functions and upgrading quality, enhance the urban planning system, and further deepen reform of urban planning and design mechanisms. In terms of construction, we will explore and establish sustainable urban renewal models and policies and regulations, strengthen the construction of underground integrated corridors and the upgrading of old pipelines, deepen actions to enhance urban safety and resilience, and innovate investment and financing mechanisms for urban construction and operation. In terms of governance, we will strengthen systematic thinking, focus on overall planning, improve the coordination mechanism for urban management, accelerate the construction and application of urban operation management service platforms, promote the integration of urban management into grassroots social governance, enhance grassroots service management capabilities, and advance the modernization of the urban governance system and governance capacity. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:

The Resolution of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization, adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, called for an increase in the construction and supply of government-subsidized housing to meet wage earners' essential housing needs. What specific steps will be taken next to ensure the effective implementation of this policy? Thank you.

Ni Hong:

Regarding housing, there are two aspects: one is the guarantee system, and the other is the market mechanism. Both need to be managed and coordinated. Could Mr. Dong elaborate on how to achieve this balance?

Dong Jianguo:

The Nanfang Daily reporter's question addresses a key concern for urban families facing housing difficulties, new urban residents and young people. The Party Central Committee and the State Council place great importance on housing security work. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, we've steadily improved our housing security system and expanded government-subsidized housing construction. Last year, the State Council issued a document on the planning and construction of government-subsidized housing, categorizing it into rental and sale properties and exploring new approaches for the latter.

In accordance with the directives of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, we, together with relevant departments, have strengthened overall planning and guidance. We have instructed local governments to focus on constructing sale-type government-subsidized housing to quickly resolve housing difficulties for wage earners. Simultaneously, we have emphasized supplying rental-type government-subsidized housing, offering diverse solutions such as "a bed, a room, or an apartment" to address the housing needs of new urban residents and young people. In the first seven months of this year, construction began on 2.35 million units of government-subsidized housing and resettlement housing for urban village renovations, with over 440 billion yuan invested.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee called for increased construction and supply of government-subsidized housing. Our ministry will work with relevant departments to guide local governments in implementing and enforcing these directives.

First, we focus on planning. Government-subsidized housing planning is a crucial component of the overall housing development plan. We guide local governments to base their plans on regional economic capabilities, real estate market conditions, and the housing needs of various groups in difficulty. We emphasize "building and purchasing according to demand," tailoring government-subsidized housing plans to local conditions through five-year and annual plans. We prioritize allocating government-subsidized housing in areas with convenient transportation and well-equipped public facilities to promote a balance between work and residence. We also summarize and promote the experiences and practices of relevant cities, maintain and improve the rotation system for eligible residents, conduct regular application acceptance, and accurately assess the specific needs of these residents.

Second, we focus on improving the system. At the national level, we've issued a series of policy documents on planning and constructing government-subsidized housing, forming a relatively complete policy system. We are currently guiding local governments to align with the overarching national strategy and combine it with local realities. We encourage them to adhere to the principle of doing their best while acting within their means and to promptly introduce specific implementation opinions, management measures, and supporting policies. We also guide them to further refine and perfect the specific requirements for eligible recipients, protection methods, protection standards, distribution management, and other aspects to ensure the effective and orderly progress of all work.

Third, we focus on project construction. For projects in this year's plan, we are ensuring the implementation of fiscal, tax, land and financial support policies to expedite commencement and construction, enhance quality and safety supervision, and promptly initiate rental and sale arrangements for swift public occupancy. We will also enhance project planning and reserves, prepare for projects for the upcoming two years, and establish a rolling mechanism for project advancement that includes "implementing, reserving, and planning." Additionally, based on local real estate market conditions, we are actively promoting the acquisition of existing commercial housing stock for government-subsidized housing use, accelerating acquisitions for qualifying projects, and ensuring timely rental and sale arrangements.

Fourth, we focus on the "good house" model. Some may believe that "good houses" only refer to improved housing and commercial properties. This is a misconception. Government-subsidized housing is a heart-winning government project. It should be built as "good housing," which is the government's responsibility and obligation. Currently, various regions have identified a number of demonstration projects for government-subsidized housing, which are being developed to be "green, low-carbon, intelligent, and safe." We are continuously improving the quality of government-subsidized housing and striving to ensure that the public live in a healthy, safe, and convenient environment. Thank you.

China Construction News:

The protection and inheritance of urban and rural histories and cultures are related to urban and rural areas' high-quality development. What progress has been made in this regard? What are the considerations for the next step? Thank you.

Ni Hong:

It is our important responsibility to do a good job in protecting and inheriting historical and cultural heritage. In a city or a village, no matter how tall or new a building is, it will be replaced, but only history cannot be replaced. I will invite Mr. Qin to answer your question in relationship to protection efforts.

Qin Haixiang:

Thank you for your questions. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all friends from the media for your concern and support when it comes to the protection and inheritance of urban and rural historical and cultural heritage. Cities and villages are important carriers of historical and cultural heritage. It is our important responsibility to protect and pass on precious historical and cultural heritage in urban and rural development. In recent years, we have thoroughly studied and implemented the principles from General Secretary Xi Jinping's series of important instructions on the protection and inheritance of historical and cultural heritage as well as the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and have vigorously promoted the protection and inheritance of urban and rural historical and cultural heritage, achieving remarkable results.

First, a systematic work structure has been established to increase the protection and inheritance of urban and rural historical and cultural heritage. The three-tier management system for protection and inheritance work at the national, provincial, city and county levels has been improved, and the system for local housing and urban-rural development departments to report to Party committees on the protection and inheritance of historical and cultural heritage has been advanced. Various regions have put more emphasis on the historical and cultural protection. Working systems, laws and regulations have been continuously improved, and the holistic and systematic protection and inheritance of historical and cultural heritage has been continuously enhanced.

Second, a multi-tier and multi-element system for carrying forward historical and cultural heritage protection in urban and rural areas has been established. There are now 142 famous historical and cultural cities, 312 towns and 487 villages of historical and cultural value as well as 8,155 traditional Chinese villages. More than 1,200 historical and cultural blocks have been demarcated and 67,200 ancient buildings have been identified. A historical and cultural heritage protection system in urban and rural areas with distinctive features, rich variety and large numbers has taken shape.

Third, a favorable atmosphere has been created for the whole of society to jointly protect and inherit urban and rural historical and cultural heritage. Society as a whole has increasingly deepened its understanding of the important value of urban and rural historical and cultural heritage, and the vision of protecting and inheriting historical and cultural heritage has developed deep roots, becoming a general consensus. In recent years, we have co-produced large-scale documentaries such as "Wenmai Chunqiu" (Historical Cities and Their Cultures), " Wisdom in Traditional Chinese Architecture " and "Remembering Homesickness" with CCTV, which fully demonstrate the charm of China's excellent traditional culture. These documentaries have attracted widespread attention and have gathered a strong force from society as a whole to care about and support the protection and inheritance of historical and cultural heritage.

Fourth, we have created a dynamic atmosphere in which urban and rural history and culture are integrated with modern life. In urban and rural development, we have changed our focus from previous demolition patterns to renovation and maintenance, and have preserved a number of old blocks, alleys and lanes in their original conditions, retaining the original residents and vitality. We have carried out pilot projects for the protection and utilization of historic buildings, and have organized and implemented comprehensive environmental improvement projects for historical and cultural blocks, which not only improves living environments but also protects historical and cultural heritage, making the city more distinctive and attractive.

Protecting and inheriting urban and rural historical and cultural heritage is a long-term undertaking. Next, we will thoroughly study and implement Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, pay more attention to coordinating protection and development, protection and people's livelihood, protection and utilization as well as single and overall protection, thus focusing our work on the following four aspects.

First, we will focus on protection. We will guide local governments to continue to strengthen the identification of resources and include historical and cultural heritage of different types and historical periods with local characteristics into the protection list, ensuring that important historical and cultural heritage of each period is systematically protected.

Second, we will focus on utilization. Utilization is the best protection. We will continue to protect, repair and revitalize historical and cultural blocks as well as historic buildings, encouraging local governments to adopt more micro-renovation methods, just like those meticulous ways used in embroidery, and weaving, to make up for shortcomings in infrastructure and public service facilities, so that historical and cultural districts can be revitalized.

Third, we will intensify oversight. We will take strong steps to investigate and punish actions in breach of laws and regulations that damage historical and cultural heritage in urban and rural development. We will continue to do a good job in special assessments for the protection of historical and cultural cities, criticize places that fail to protect them, urge them to make corrections and rectify existing problems, guide local governments to establish a regular inspection and management system for the protection and inheritance of urban and rural historical and cultural heritage, and promptly discover and prohibit acts that violate laws and regulations.

Fourth, we will focus on fundamental work. We will make every effort to advance the formulation and revision of relevant laws and regulations to protect and inherit historical and cultural heritage in urban and rural areas, will accelerate research and formulation of standards, will drive local governments to carry out local legislation and issue local standards in accordance with actual conditions, and will continue strengthening the training of professional personnel. Simultaneously, we will continue to work on the publicity for protecting and inheriting historical and cultural heritage. We also hope that friends from the media will join us in telling the story of Chinese history and culture to pass on and promote excellent traditional Chinese culture.

Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

One last question, please.

Phoenix Satellite Television:

From "small and beautiful" projects including residential buildings, parks and schools to large infrastructure projects such as railways, bridges and airports, the construction capacity of China's construction industry has seen continuous improvements in recent years. While developing rapidly, the construction industry is also faced with the important task of improving quality and effectiveness. What are the considerations for improving and upgrading the construction industry at a faster pace? Thank you.

Ni Hong:

Thanks for your question. I will answer it. The construction industry is an important pillar industry for China's national economy. An industry being considered a pillar industry is dependent on its value added. Among various categories of the national economy, whichever industry accounts for over 5% of the GDP is a pillar industry. Just as I mentioned at the beginning, with a proportion of 7%, and 6.8% last year, the construction industry is an important pillar industry. It is also a traditional industry, closely related to the improvement of people's livelihoods. At the same time, it also plays a fundamental role in supporting the development of other industries. Building factories and facilities all require the development of the construction industry. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have thoroughly implemented the new development philosophy and have deepened the reform of the construction industry. We have made great efforts to implement an innovation-driven development strategy, promoting transformation and upgrading of the construction industry through technological innovation, transitioning China from a large country in construction into a strong country in construction, and helping the "Built by China" brand gain more recognition. Here are some representative highlights. 

First, we have developed important equipment for the country. We have developed a batch of world-class equipment with proprietary intellectual property rights including skyscraper building machines, shield tunneling machines and bridge girder erection machines, which are all very popular among many Belt and Road Initiative partner countries. 

Second, we have built iconic buildings. For example, the world's top engineering projects such as the Beijing Daxing International Airport, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link have all been completed and put into use. Venues such as the National Speed Skating Oval, dubbed the "Ice Ribbon," and the National Ski Jumping Centre, dubbed the "Snow Ruyi," featuring cutting-edge technologies and Chinese style, have presented the scientific and technological strength of "Built by China" projects to the world.

Third, we have gone global. At present, we have built projects in 190 countries around the world and have received these countries' recognition. It can be said that a number of major projects built by Chinese construction enterprises have become landmark projects in these countries.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has put forward new requirements that national standards should be elevated to guide the upgrading of traditional industries, and enterprises should also be encouraged to apply digital and new green technologies to transform and upgrade these sectors. This has brought new opportunities for the upgrading and transformation of the construction industry. We will work on the following four aspects.

First, in terms of reform objectives, we will work on establishing a modern system for the construction industry, advance the industrial, digital and green transformation and upgrading of the construction industry, and build high-quality buildings and houses that meet the needs of the times and the people.

Second, in terms of methods and paths, we will leverage science and technology to enhance the quality and performance of the construction industry's development, accelerate the integration of new-generation information technology with the construction industry and vigorously develop new construction methods, such as intelligent construction, green construction, and prefabricated construction. Based on this, we will coordinate all sectors of design, production and construction, drive the coordinated development of the entire upstream and downstream industrial chains, including building materials, construction equipment as well as components and parts, and realize standardized design, industrialized production, prefabricated construction, IT-based management and intelligent maintenance. 

Third, in terms of systems and mechanisms, we will improve the system of construction standards for construction projects and give priority to reforming basic systems related to project supervision, project cost and project completion acceptance. Simultaneously, we will continue to improve the safety supervision system for the construction sector and project quality as well as foster an honest, law-abiding and quality-oriented business environment that upholds fair competition.

Fourth, in terms of personnel training, we will focus on cultivating professional and dedicated personnel. We will launch a training plan for construction talents, and create opportunities and favorable conditions to cultivate leading talents, such as masters of survey and design. At the same time, we will cultivate young talents and enable aspiring young men to show their skills in the high-quality development of the construction industry so that they can stand out. We will call for the pursuit of superior workmanship and cultivate modern construction industry workers. Skill competitions will be organized to select the most skilled workers. We will adopt multiple measures to cultivate national-level craftsmen and skilled artisans. We have confidence in making "Built by China" projects gain the same worldwide reputation as "Made in China" products. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Thanks to Mr. Ni, all the other speakers and our friends from the media for participating. That's all for today's briefing. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Huang Shan, Liu Sitong, Wang Yanfang, Liu Caiyi, Liao Jiaxin, Zhou Jing, Li Xiao, Li Huiru, Lin Liyao, Liu Jianing, Wang Wei, Yang Chuanli, Yuan Fang, Yan Bin, Xu Kailin, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Xiao Yuanqi, vice minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA)

Mr. Wang Shengbang, director of the Legal and Regulation Department at the NFRA 

Ms. Liao Yuanyuan, director of the Statistics and Risk Surveillance Department at the NFRA 

Mr. Yin Jiang'ao, director of the Property and Casualty Insurance Supervision Department at the NFRA 

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 21, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Xiao Yuanqi, vice minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA), to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Wang Shengbang, director of the Legal and Regulation Department at the NFRA; Ms. Liao Yuanyuan, director of the Statistics and Risk Surveillance Department at the NFRA; and Mr. Yin Jiang'ao, director of the Property and Casualty Insurance Supervision Department at the NFRA. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Xiao for his introduction. 

Xiao Yuanqi:

Thank you. Good afternoon. I'm very pleased to meet with you again to introduce the progress of the NFRA in promoting high-quality development. On behalf of the NFRA, I would first like to express our gratitude to friends from the media for your strong support, attention and assistance toward the financial work and financial supervision. My colleagues and I are all very willing to answer your questions.

Under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the NFRA has fully embraced the political and people-oriented nature of financial work. We have promoted high-quality financial development to contribute to the building of a strong nation and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. China has established a multi-tiered, broad and diversified financial institution system. The banking sector now ranks first globally in terms of size of assets, while the insurance market ranks second in the world. Since the beginning of this year, the NFRA has thoroughly implemented the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), as well as the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, the Central Financial Work Conference, and the Central Economic Work Conference. We have adhered to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, and focused on the major decisions and deployments of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, achieving new results in promoting high-quality development.

We have remained committed to deepening supply-side structural reform in the financial sector, and guiding financial institutions to adopt the right perspectives on performance and development, focus on their core responsibilities, enhance their capabilities, and transition toward more refined internal management, thereby promoting high-quality and sustainable industry development. I would like to share a few key figures with you: Asset growth has remained stable. As of the end of July, the total assets of banking financial institutions reached 423.8 trillion yuan, marking a year-on-year increase of 7%. The insurance industry's total assets stood at 33.9 trillion yuan, up 7.7% from the beginning of the year. Asset quality has remained stable, with the non-performing loan (NPL) ratio continuing to decline steadily. This year, credit risks have been generally under control. By the end of July, the NPL ratio of the banking sector was 1.61%, down 0.08 percentage point from the same period last year. The disposal of non-performing assets has also intensified, with banks disposing of 1.4 trillion yuan of non-performing assets in the first half of this year. Risk buffers have steadily increased. As of the end of July, the loan loss provision coverage ratio of banks was 216.7%, meaning that loan loss provisions were more than double NPLs. Additionally, by the end of the first half of this year, the capital adequacy ratio of banks stood at 15.53%, while the comprehensive and core solvency ratios of insurance companies were 195.5% and 132.4%, respectively, indicating that banks and insurance institutions are well-equipped to withstand risks. Liquidity has been improving steadily. The two main liquidity indicators for banks, the liquidity coverage ratio and the net stable funding ratio, both meet regulatory requirements. Therefore, China's banking industry is currently stable and improving, with controllable risks and key business and regulatory indicators within healthy and reasonable ranges.

Financial institutions have further enhanced their ability to serve the real economy, with a continued increase in financial supply, particularly for major strategies, key areas and weak links, becoming more precise and efficient. The total deposit balances held by all financial institutions has maintained steady growth. By the end of July, the balance of RMB loans reached 251 trillion yuan, an increase of 13.5 trillion yuan compared to the beginning of the year. The balance of bond investments by banking and insurance institutions stood at 103 trillion yuan, up 4.9 trillion yuan compared to the beginning of the year. The insurance fund investment balance stood at 31 trillion yuan, a rise of 7.4% compared with that at the beginning of 2024. These numbers reflect the supply side of financial funds. Moreover, the funding structure has been optimized. We have intensified our support for the advanced manufacturing and sci-tech innovation sectors. By the end of July, loans to the manufacturing sector rose 11.4% year on year, and loans to the high-tech industry increased by 13.9% year on year. In addition, financial services for micro and small enterprises, as well as for agriculture, rural areas and rural residents, have also improved. Inclusive finance lending to micro and small businesses rose 17.1% year on year by the end of July. Support for the health industry and silver economy has been strengthened. By the end of July, loans to the elderly care sector were up 16.1% compared to the beginning of the year. To support the in-depth integration of the digital economy with the real economy, loans to core industries of the digital economy increased 12.4% year on year. The insurance industry played an important role in the rapid recovery of life and work after disasters, providing effective coverage for damage caused by rainstorms, floods and other calamities. In the first seven months, insurance companies paid out a total of 1.39 trillion yuan in claims and benefits, a 30.2% year-on-year increase. By the end of July, the insurance industry provided financing support totaling 28.5 trillion yuan through bonds, stocks, and other means. These are some key figures I'd like to share.

In accordance with the decisions and arrangements made by the CPC Central Committee, we have constantly improved financial regulatory systems and mechanisms. As a result, the building of regulatory systems has accelerated comprehensively, regulatory and law enforcement capabilities have been strengthened, and financial regulation has become more digitalized and smarter.

Currently, the NFRA is earnestly studying the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, acquiring a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We will continue to uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. We will further align our thinking and actions with the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, ensuring that the principles, policies, decisions and arrangements related to financial work made by the Party Central Committee are thoroughly implemented. We will focus on further deepening reform comprehensively with a view to advancing Chinese modernization. We will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China with our remarkable contributions.

That's all for my introduction. We would like to answer your questions now. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Thank you. The floor is now open for questions. Before asking your question, please identify the media outlet you represent.

CCTV:

In May this year, the NFRA issued guidance on developing technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance and digital finance in the banking and insurance sectors. Several months have passed. Can you introduce the work you have carried out and the achievements you have obtained? What measures will you take in the next step? Thank you.

Xiao Yuanqi:

These questions are of great concern to us. As you mentioned, the NFRA issued this guidance in May, and we appreciate your attention to it.

Developing technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance and digital finance is a major task assigned to us by General Secretary Xi Jinping at the Central Financial Work Conference.

In terms of technology finance, we mainly focus on targeting the global frontiers of science and technology, the development of the economy, the major needs of the country, and the health and safety of our people. We have accelerated developing a financial system for scientific and technological innovation, concentrating on key links and vital areas. We've provided technology companies with financing services and insurance guarantees better adapting to their businesses and development phases. Meanwhile, we have advanced a virtuous circle of technology, industry, and finance. By the end of June 2024, the balance of loans to high-tech companies nationwide reached 15.3 trillion yuan, with credit loans and medium- to long-term loans each accounting for more than 40%. The loan balance grew 19.5% year on year. Since tech companies often can't provide sufficient collateral, we encourage banking institutions to offer credit loans. Moreover, as it takes time for scientific and technological innovations to become profitable products, we also encourage banks to provide more medium- and long-term loans to sci-tech businesses and industries. This approach ensures loan funds are more compatible with the development cycle of sci-tech firms and industries.

In the area of green finance, the NFRA has introduced guidance on promoting the high-quality development of green insurance and continued improving its work on green finance standards and evaluation. By the end of June, the green credit balance of 21 major banks was 31 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 25.9%. Green insurance claim payments in the first half of this year reached 85 billion yuan.

Regarding inclusive finance, we have issued a notice on inclusive credit work in 2024 and guidance on promoting the high-quality development of inclusive insurance. These two documents have played an important role in advancing inclusive finance in the banking and insurance sectors. Meanwhile, we have further improved the inclusive credit system. By the end of June, the balance of inclusive loans to micro and small enterprises stood at 32 trillion yuan, registering a year-on-year growth rate of 17%.

For pension finance, the NFRA has cooperated with relevant departments to jointly promote private pension schemes. More than 60 million accounts have been set up, and over 500 products have been developed, covering savings deposits, wealth management and commercial pension schemes. We have vigorously advanced commercial pension schemes, accumulating a pension scale worth more than 6 trillion yuan and covering nearly 100 million people. We've also developed financial products for old-age care such as savings accounts, wealth management products and private pension schemes. Previously introduced as pilot projects in some cities and financial institutions, these products are now promoted nationwide.

For digital finance, the NFRA has issued guiding opinions on the digital transformation of the banking and insurance sectors. This aims to accelerate the development of digital financial products and services, as well as strengthen data capability and infrastructure construction.

These major works are what have been carried out recently. Looking forward, in terms of technology finance, the priority is to supervise and urge financial institutions to earnestly implement the full lifecycle financial service requirements for technology-based enterprises, and to guide and nurture more long-term and patient capital to invest in projects at the early stages, in small enterprises, over long time horizons, and in advanced core technologies. In terms of green finance, we need to further improve the relevant statistical systems while enriching the supply of green financial products, particularly enhancing the precision and effectiveness of green financial services. In terms of inclusive finance, our main focus is to further implement and refine the two aforementioned notices, as well as the Implementation Opinions of the State Council on Promoting the High-Quality Development of Inclusive Finance, to achieve effects. In terms of pension finance, we must steadily promote the development of commercial pension finance while requiring insurance institutions to design pension insurance products that are simpler, more convenient and more stable, in order to cater to the characteristics and needs of pension insurance. In terms of digital finance, we must further strengthen top-level design and overall planning, promote innovative applications of digital technologies in the financial sector, increase digital empowerment and enhance the management level of financial institutions. Thank you.

People's Daily:

In recent years, extreme weather and natural disasters have occurred frequently. Could you elaborate on the positive role that the insurance industry has played in responding to disasters and accidents? How can we further leverage functions of the insurance industry to assist in disaster prevention, mitigation, relief, and post-disaster recovery and reconstruction ? Thank you.

Xiao Yuanqi:

I'd like to invite Mr. Yin Jiang'ao to answer these questions. He often arrives at the frontlines of disasters promptly to expedite insurance services alongside insurance and financial institutions. Please welcome Mr. Yin Jiang'ao.

Yin Jiang'ao:

Thank you for your interest in this issue. In recent years, the frequent occurrence of natural disasters has caused significant losses to the people. For example, in the first half of this year, direct economic losses caused by natural disasters in China amounted to approximately 93.2 billion yuan, significantly higher than the 38.2 billion yuan recorded during the same period last year. The NFRA has earnestly implemented the important directives made by General Secretary Xi Jinping, as well as the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, to promote the role of the insurance industry as an economic buffer and social cornerstone. We have actively responded to disasters and accidents as well as have serviced protection for people's livelihood specifically in the following aspects:

We have strengthened industry coordination and deployment. Facing disasters and accidents, under the unified deployment of relevant local party committees, governments and departments, we have prompted the banking and insurance industry, as well as financial regulatory bureaus in affected regions, to promptly activate emergency response plans, establish green channels, improve service standards and play an active role in disaster prevention, mitigation and relief.

We have guided the industry to provide effective claims services. As Mr. Xiao Yuanqi mentioned earlier, in the first seven months of this year, our insurance industry's claims payments totaled approximately 1.39 trillion yuan, representing a year-on-year growth rate of 30.2%, which is significantly higher than the 5.2% growth rate of premium income during the same period, indicating a rapid growth in claims payments. In response to disasters, we have encouraged the industry to introduce policies such as "three exemptions and four expediting measures" for auto insurance claims and "four expediting measures and two exemptions" for farmhouse insurance claims, ensuring timely and comprehensive compensation. As of now, approximately 2.8 billion yuan in insurance claims have been paid out in southern regions severely affected by disasters, such as Hunan, Jiangxi and Guangdong provinces. Insurance institutions have deployed approximately 87,000 personnel and dispatched nearly 58,000 survey and rescue vehicles, effectively help bring production and life back to normal in affected regions.

We have promoted industry collaboration in disaster prevention and loss mitigation. We have guided the insurance industry to play a risk reduction role in pre-disaster warning, in-disaster management and post-disaster rescue. For example, the insurance industry, in conjunction with relevant departments, recently conducted risk assessments for 143,000 enterprises, identifying approximately 540,000 risks and potential dangers. By facilitating rectification measures, we have achieved disaster prevention and loss mitigation.

In summary, the role of our country's insurance industry in responding to disasters and accidents is increasingly prominent. However, compared to the global average, there is still much to be improved. For example, in the first half of this year, global economic losses from natural disasters totaled approximately $120 billion, of which insurance payments accounted for roughly $60 billion, or about 50%. In contrast, insurance payments in China accounted for approximately 10% of disaster-related economic losses, indicating substantial room for growth.

Looking forward, we will follow the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC and the Central Financial Work Conference to better leverage the functions of the insurance industry. In terms of institutional improvements, we will establish evaluation systems for insurance protection capabilities and refine mechanisms for graded responses to disasters and accidents. For pilot programs, based on the expansion of residential catastrophe insurance coverage's scope earlier this year, we will summarize the practices in Hebei, Hubei, Beijing's Mentougou district and other regions, and promote pilot programs across the country. In deepening reforms, we will expand the supply of agricultural insurance and improve co-insurance mechanisms to enhance risk prevention for major projects. In strengthening supervision, we will optimize standards for underwriting and claim settlements, enhance the quality and efficiency of insurance services and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of consumers.

That's all I have to say. Thank you!

Market News International: 

In recent years, the net profit growth of Chinese commercial banks has continued to slow down, with private banks experiencing negative growth. What are the main reasons for this and how do you anticipate the future trend of bank's net interest margin? Thank you.

Liao Yuanyuan:

Thank you for the questions from this international media friend. In recent years, the growth rate for net profits of China's commercial banks has continued to slow down, mainly due to the continuous decline in lending rates and the narrowing of net interest margins. From January to July of this year, the average interest rate of newly issued corporate loans by banks fell by 39 basis points compared with the same period last year, and by more than 100 basis points from the previous high point in 2021. In the first half of this year, the net interest margin of commercial banks was 1.54%, a year-on-year decrease of 19 basis points and a decrease of more than 50 basis points from the previous high point. The narrowing of the net interest margin has led to a significant slowdown in the growth rate of banks' net interest income. Since the net interest income of China's commercial banks accounts for about 80% of their operating income, and the commercial banks in our country mainly engage in deposit and loan business, the slowdown in the growth rate of net interest income has a very significant impact on profits. Another factor affecting net profits is that commercial banks have continuously reduced service fees in recent years, with fee and commission incomes declining year on year for five consecutive years.

We all know that maintaining a reasonable profit level is crucial for banks to timely replenish capital, maintain stable operations and enhance their ability to serve the real economy. Faced with pressures from slowing profit growth, in recent years, commercial banks have tapped into internal potential to lower costs and improve efficiency through various measures. Currently, the profitability of Chinese commercial banks remains within a reasonable range. In the first half of this year, the net profit of commercial banks increased by 0.4% year on year, still achieving positive net profit growth. During the same period, the return on assets and return on capital of banks remained basically stable. Moving forward, the NFRA will guide banking institutions to continue strengthening refined management, optimizing the asset-liability structure, cultivating new profit growth points, and continuously improving profitability.

As you just mentioned, the net profit growth rate of private banks has turned negative. We have also noticed this. In the first half of this year, private banks overall remained profitable, but the net profits of several private banks declined year on year. This was primarily because these banks significantly increased their provision allocations compared to the same period last year, which directly impacted their current profits, leading to a temporary decline in net profits for private banks. Thank you.

Haibao News:

How can the five major regulatory requirements be specifically implemented to enhance the full-process and full-chain monitoring and early warning systems for financial institutions and activities? Thank you.

Xiao Yuanqi:

I would like to invite Mr. Wang to answer this question.

Wang Shengbang:

Thank you for your interest. Our primary responsibility at the NFRA is regulation. In line with the "five major regulatory requirements" clearly outlined at the Central Financial Work Conference, we are diligently implementing these requirements, emphasizing a strong and strict regulatory approach. We are leveraging the advantages of our four-tier vertical management system — headquarters, provincial offices, branch offices and sub-branch offices — working together at all levels to continuously strengthen financial risk monitoring and early warning, and enhance risk prevention capabilities. I would like to share several key aspects of our work.

First, we have emphasized the principle of "comprehensive coverage" to achieve full coverage in financial regulation. The Central Financial Work Conference proposed that financial regulatory activities must cover all areas. In accordance with the requirements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, financial regulation must cover not only legal but also illegal activities, and manage risks across the entire industry. We adhere to the principles of financial licensing and licensed operations, ensuring that we address both "violations in licensed operations" and "unlicensed activities." The NFRA has utilized new technologies and methods to strengthen information connectivity and improve the monitoring and early warning platform for illegal financial activities. This has improved our ability to identify illegal financial activities and entities, enabling dynamic monitoring, timely warnings, proactive intervention and early resolution.

Second, we have adhered to a risk-based approach and strengthened the prudential regulatory framework for financial institutions. Our regulation is grounded in a risk-based prudential framework, further clarifying the boundaries for the sound operations of financial institutions and guiding them toward prudent management. As you may know, last year the NFRA issued new versions of the "Commercial Bank Capital Management Measures" and the "Measures for the Risk Classification of Financial Assets of Commercial Banks." These two measures form the foundational framework for our prudential regulation. Their implementation will play a crucial role in enhancing the risk management capabilities of commercial banks, further guiding them toward prudent and regulated operations, and strengthening the banking sector's ability to withstand risks. You may have also noticed that two weeks ago, the NFRA officially released a draft of "Measures for the Risk Classification of Insurance Assets" on its website for public comment. This draft emphasizes the importance of identifying the underlying assets of insurance investments based on the principle of transparency and classifying them according to their actual risk, thereby systematically improving the risk management capabilities of insurance companies. Recently, we have also continued to revise the management measures for fixed asset loans, working capital loans and personal loans — part of what was previously known collectively as the "three measures and one guideline" — to further standardize the credit-granting processes of commercial banks and improve their efficiency in serving the real economy.

Third, we have implemented the "four early" requirements to enhance the forward-looking nature of risk warnings. The NFRA has done a lot of work to further improve the risk rating system for financial institutions. We have introduced regulatory rating measures for insurance companies, trust companies and corporate financial companies, which play a foundational role in risk regulation. We have also further developed the risk monitoring and early warning system, enriched the risk monitoring and early warning indicators, and established a regulatory big data platform. By using intelligent analysis tools, we have enhanced our ability to probe and identify risks, increasing the forward-looking nature of risk recognition and improving the precision of regulation. We are also drafting work procedures for early intervention in financial institutions to establish a system with strict constraints for early intervention. The aim is to achieve early identification, early warning, early exposure and early resolution of financial risks.

Fourth, we have increased regulatory intensity and improved regulatory effectiveness. We are implementing stringent regulatory requirements, enhancing oversight by the NFRA, and ensuring coordination among administrative licensing, off-site monitoring, on-site inspections, regulatory enforcement measures and administrative penalties. We are addressing market anomalies and focusing on "key issues" affecting financial stability, such as credit, investment and bills; "key individuals" who pose financial risks, including senior executives and shareholders; and "key behaviors" that disrupt market order, such as related-party transactions and circular capital injection. We are strengthening supervision and imposing strict penalties for illegal and irregular activities. Last Friday, you may have noticed that the NFRA published a draft of the "Regulations on Compliance Management of Financial Institutions" on its official website for public comment. This draft aims to comprehensively enhance compliance management requirements for financial institutions, clarify compliance management responsibilities, and foster a compliance culture that permeates all levels of financial institutions. Over time, compliance will become an intrinsic part of financial institutions, solidifying the micro-foundation of our financial stability. Thank you. 

Bloomberg:

Risk prevention and stringent regulation are important tasks for the NFRA in promoting the high-quality development of the financial industry. What progress has been made in the reform and risk mitigation efforts for small and medium-sized financial institutions? Will the consolidation of regional banks be accelerated in the future? Thank you.

Xiao Yuanqi:

This issue is very important, and many people are concerned about it. I will answer your question. Small and medium-sized banks and insurance institutions are a crucial part of China's financial system. As of the end of June, there were 3,830 small and medium-sized banks nationwide — including city commercial banks, rural commercial banks, rural credit cooperatives and village banks — with aggregate assets reaching 115 trillion yuan, accounting for 28% of the total of the banking industry. Their loan balance is 62 trillion yuan, with nearly 80% directed toward small and micro enterprises and the sectors of agriculture, rural areas and rural people. There are 163 small and medium-sized insurance companies, with aggregate assets of 9.7 trillion yuan, accounting for 30% of the total of the insurance industry. Overall, small and medium-sized financial institutions are operating steadily nationwide, and both their operating and regulatory indicators remain within healthy and reasonable ranges. For example, small and medium-sized banks have a capital adequacy ratio of 13% and a provision coverage ratio of 155%. The solvency of insurance companies, whether in terms of comprehensive solvency or core solvency, remains above regulatory thresholds. This is the basic situation.

Regarding the reform and risk mitigation you mentioned, and whether the consolidation of regional banks will be accelerated, our overall considerations and strong regulatory approach for the reform of small and medium-sized financial institutions include the following aspects:

In terms of reform, we adhere to the principle of seeking practical and steady progress, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. China is very large, and small and medium-sized financial institutions are distributed across various regions, from large cities to medium and small cities, counties, towns and villages. Each institution serves a different area, and each has its own unique circumstances. Therefore, we maintain the principle of adopting tailored policies for each province, each bank and each company.

In terms of regulation, our first priority is to strengthen corporate governance. We must reinforce the Party's leadership and convert the institutional advantages of Party leadership into governance effectiveness for these institutions. It is essential to establish and improve systems and procedures for major decision-making to ensure standardized operations. Additionally, we must enhance information disclosure and leverage market discipline and external supervision. This is the first point: strengthening corporate governance. The second point is enhancing the supervision of conduct, focusing on the behavior of major shareholders and strictly preventing large shareholders from manipulating or overriding small and medium-sized financial institutions. Regardless of whether they are large or small shareholders, we support financial institutions in making decisions according to corporate governance procedures and policies. The stable operation of small and medium-sized financial institutions is the most responsible approach toward shareholders, as it ensures that the value of shareholders and stakeholders is realized. We must also strengthen supervision of the behavior of directors, senior management and key personnel, primarily to ensure they diligently perform their duties, to assess their competence and to evaluate their performance outcomes. The third point is that small and medium-sized financial institutions should accurately identify their market positioning. The general principle is to pursue differentiated and specialized development. Differentiation is about avoiding complete homogeneity, while specialization refers to leveraging strengths to form core competitiveness. The fourth point is focusing on core responsibilities and businesses without blindly pursuing size and scale. Small and medium-sized financial institutions should pursue progress while ensuring stability, and avoiding overextending their capabilities and resources by chasing overly rapid growth, excessive scale or overly complex businesses. They should prioritize serving small and micro enterprises, supporting agriculture, rural areas and rural people, advancing rural revitalization, and serving communities and local areas. These are their strengths. By fully leveraging these advantages, small and medium-sized financial institutions have very broad prospects.

Of course, we also need to optimize the regional financial layout. This primarily involves optimizing the financial layout based on factors such as the scale of regional economic development, the total amount of finance, development trends and changes in financial demand. Regarding your question about whether the financial institutions in these regions will accelerate restructuring and layout, the optimization of regional financial layout is an ongoing process, and there is no issue of speed. The main consideration is to optimize the layout based on the total size of the local economy and finance, development trends and financial demand. The fundamental goal is to ensure that financial supply and services can meet the multi-level and diverse financial needs of market entities and financial consumers. Thank you.

Yicai:

The resolution of the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC stated that the mechanisms for protecting financial consumers and cracking down on illegal financial activities should be improved. We all know that protecting the legitimate rights and interests of financial consumers not only concerns the immediate interests of consumers but also plays a crucial role in preventing and defusing financial risks, as well as maintaining financial security and stability. Could you please elaborate on what efforts you plan to make in this area moving forward? Thank you.

Xiao Yuanqi:

This is an important question. Today, we are joined by the director general of the Legal and Regulation Department, so I would like to invite him to answer this question.

Wang Shengbang:

Thank you for your question. As we all know, the banking and insurance industry, or the financial industry, is highly relevant to the public. On both sides of a bank's balance sheet, the liabilities side represents people's deposits and a significant portion of the assets side is also closely related to the public, such as housing mortgage loans. Therefore, the operations of the banking and insurance industry are closely connected to the vital interests of our people. Protecting the legitimate rights and interests of financial consumers and safeguarding people's wealth is an inherent duty of our financial regulation, and can be said to be both the starting point and the goal. Only by effectively protecting the legitimate rights and interests of financial consumers, can we strengthen the public's confidence in the financial system and maintain financial stability. I fully agree with the reporter's view just now. Protecting the legitimate rights and interests of financial consumers is a concrete action showcasing the political- and people-centered nature of financial work. According to the Plan on Deepening Reform of Party and State Institutions, the NFRA is responsible for the overall coordination of consumer protection in the financial sector. Since last year, the NFRA has focused on improving new mechanisms for financial consumer protection and building a new framework for financial consumer protection. We have made some progress and conducted some explorations in several areas of the work.

First, we have established a financial consumer protection system with clearly defined responsibilities. In June this year, the NFRA, in collaboration with the People's Bank of China and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, established a coordination mechanism to enhance information sharing and cooperation on financial consumer protection. At the same time, the NFRA has strengthened its cooperation with courts, procuratorates, public security departments, internet regulators, and market regulators to jointly address cross-industry and cross-sector financial consumer protection issues, such as false advertising and misleading promotions. Additionally, the administration's branch offices at four administrative levels have established local financial consumer protection coordination mechanisms.

Second, we are strengthening whole-process protection for financial consumers. Prior to transactions, we require financial institutions to assess both the risks of financial products and the risk tolerance of consumers and investors. Institutions must adhere to the "triple appropriateness" principle: appropriate target customers, products and sales channels. This ensures that suitable products are offered through proper methods to qualified investors, preventing mismatches. We also aim to enhance consumer education to increase risk awareness. Post-transaction, we enhance protection through regulatory reporting and evaluation mechanisms to ensure compliance. To address the high volume of consumer-financial institution disputes, we need to explore establishing diverse financial dispute resolution mechanisms. We aim to implement the grassroots social governance practices of the new era, enhance the efficiency of dispute resolution, and better safeguard consumers' legal rights.

Third, we aim to enhance the responsiveness of financial consumer protection. We focus on key issues that affect people's daily lives, such as addressing forgotten insurance policies and notifying people about dormant bank accounts. Some individuals have forgotten about insurance policies purchased years ago, while numerous bank accounts lie dormant, unknown to their holders. Therefore, we are working to clean up these forgotten policies and remind people about dormant accounts, ensuring that our efforts genuinely benefit the public and reflect the warmth of financial regulation.

Fourth, we are creating a well-regulated and trustworthy financial consumer environment. We are advancing the development of an integrity system within the financial sector, establishing mechanisms to restrict dishonest entities, and increasing penalties for serious violations. We are also enhancing coordinated governance mechanisms in the financial consumer sector to combat illegal activities and regulate marketing practices. These efforts aim to strengthen consumer protection measures, laying a solid foundation for the sustained, healthy development of the financial industry. Thank you.

CNBC:

How do you view the impact of market interest rate fluctuations on the insurance industry? Thank you.

Yin Jiang'ao:

Thank you for your question. Interest rate management is crucial for insurance companies, especially life insurance companies, as it directly affects the industry's stability and high-quality development. Currently, China's insurance industry is undergoing a period of transformation and upgrading, which inevitably brings difficulties and challenges. The NFRA places great emphasis on the high-quality development of the insurance industry by following a coordinated approach and addressing both symptoms and root causes. We have taken multiple measures to push forward the insurance industry, especially the life insurance industry, to strengthen its management of profit sources and improve the quality of liabilities. To enhance interest rate margin management, we're guiding the industry to lower assumed life insurance product pricing rates at a proper time and establish a dynamic adjustment mechanism linking these rates to market interest rates. We're expediting the transfer of asset-side yields to liability fund cost rates, improving asset-liability matching. This reinforces how investment returns constrain settlement rates and dividend levels, ensuring realistic and reasonable customer benefits. Additionally, we are urging insurance companies to adjust product structures, optimize the illustration of policy interest rates, and reasonably guide market expectations.

In terms of cost and expense management, we have deepened the alignment of reported expenses with actual practices. This approach enhances life insurance products' precision and scientific management across various channels, improving operational efficiency. Additionally, we have guided the China Association of Actuaries in compiling the fourth set of experience mortality tables for the life insurance industry, providing a solid foundation for accurate and scientific pricing by insurance companies.

Looking ahead, we will continue to drive the insurance industry to transform its development approach, deepen supply-side reforms, and enhance efficiency while reducing costs, thereby promoting high-quality development in the sector. At the same time, we will follow development principles, strengthen the linkage between assets and liabilities, solidify the foundation for growth, and foster a favorable environment. This approach will ensure effective public insurance coverage while enhancing service quality and efficiency for the real economy, ultimately improving social welfare. Thank you.

The Paper:

Could you discuss the progress and achievements of the real estate financing coordination mechanism since its inception? What areas of concern remain? Thank you.

Xiao Yuanqi:

I'll defer to Ms. Liao, who has been directly involved in this work, to address these questions.

Liao Yuanyuan:

Thank you. In January of this year, the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and the NFRA jointly issued guidelines for local governments to establish urban real estate financing coordination mechanisms. To ensure the effective implementation of the mechanisms, our two ministries set up a national task force in April to jointly concentrate on the work, while also guiding local governments to establish their own task forces to carry out related work. In June, with the approval of the State Council, the NFRA and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development jointly issued a notice introducing several optimization measures to improve the efficiency and quality of the whitelist project recommendations. These measures are intended to further leverage the role of the urban financing coordination mechanism, address legitimate financing needs for real estate projects, and support timely and good-quality housing delivery.

The urban coordination mechanism requires cities to take primary responsibility and centers on specific projects. Through collective efforts, the mechanism has effectively supported the financing of real estate projects, achieving phased results. Currently, commercial banks have approved 5,392 projects on the "whitelist," with approved financing totaling nearly 1.4 trillion yuan. The mechanism has ensured timely funding for whitelisted projects that meet the criteria, playing a positive role in facilitating project completion and delivery, safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of homebuyers, and stabilizing the real estate market.

Currently, to ensure the timely delivery of housing projects, urban coordination mechanisms are comprehensively gathering information on ongoing real estate projects within their jurisdictions that are under construction and have been sold, but not yet been delivered. For projects that need financing support through the whitelist, but have not yet met the criteria, the urban coordination mechanisms are urging banks to provide targeted advice and recommendations, and real estate enterprises to take timely measures to rectify problematic projects. Meanwhile, local governments are urged to strengthen coordination to ensure that projects meeting the whitelist criteria are promptly included in the program.

Since the beginning of this year, the NFRA has continuously guided financial institutions to provide real estate financing services through multiple channels. By fully utilizing various policy measures, including the urban coordination mechanism, banking institutions' financing of the real estate sector has maintained a steady and increasing trend. At present, the balance of real estate development loans has increased by over 400 billion yuan since the beginning of the year, commercial property loans have seen a 19% year-on-year increase, and merger and acquisition loan balances have increased by 21% year on year. From January to July, commercial banks issued a total of 3.1 trillion yuan in new personal housing loans, effectively supporting the rigid and improving housing demands of residents.

Next, the NFRA will resolutely implement the decisions and arrangements of the Party Central Committee and the State Council regarding real estate work, continue to promote the fulfillment of responsibilities among local governments, real estate enterprises and financial institutions in collaboration with relevant departments, and better leverage the role of the urban coordination mechanism. It will guide financial institutions to continuously improve real estate financial services, supporting the stable and healthy development of the real estate market. Thank you.

China Banking and Insurance News: 

My question is about agricultural insurance. What measures has the NFRA taken in recent years to promote agricultural insurance, serve agricultural production and standardize the development of agricultural insurance? What policy initiatives will be introduced going forward to promote the high-quality development of agricultural insurance? And, in response to current meteorological changes, what innovations will be developed in agricultural insurance products? Thank you.

Yin Jiangao:

Thank you for your question. Agricultural insurance is a crucial means to safeguard agricultural production. In recent years, the NFRA has been focusing on promoting the transformation and upgrading of agricultural insurance, enhancing its protection and service capabilities, and has achieved positive progress. In the first half of this year, agricultural insurance payouts amounted to 47.5 billion yuan, an increase of 5.1% year on year, benefiting 16.26 million rural households. Here are some key points:

We have focused on "expanding coverage, increasing varieties and raising standards" to broaden the scope of agricultural insurance and enhance its protection levels. This year, we have extended comprehensive cost insurance and planting income insurance for the three main grains — corn, wheat and rice — to all regions across the country. According to estimates, this has added approximately 400 billion yuan in insurance coverage for agricultural production nationwide. At the same time, we have added local specialty agricultural insurance products, such as comprehensive cost insurance and planting income insurance for sugar cane in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Given the significant differences in agricultural production across the country, there is still considerable room for exploration in local specialty agricultural insurance.

We have promoted the standardization of agricultural insurance business and strengthened the protection of farmers' interests. We have introduced the Agricultural Insurance Underwriting and Claims Management Measures and the Agricultural Insurance Actuarial Regulations. We have also released the industry benchmark pure risk loss rate table for the cost insurance of the three main grains at the prefecture-level, primarily to support differentiated pricing in various regions. Additionally, we have arranged special annual inspections of agricultural insurance, strictly investigating and dealing with illegal and non-compliant activities, to promote business standardization.

We have strengthened the standardization of agricultural insurance, promoting the improvement of management and operational levels. We have organized the industry to compile service specifications for underwriting and claims in planting insurance, livestock insurance and forest insurance, and guided the industry to develop the Agricultural Insurance Product Development Guide, releasing model clauses for insurance of the three main grains, among others. Overall, we have achieved positive progress.

To promote the construction of an agricultural powerhouse, agricultural insurance must play a more pivotal role. For example, last year, China's added value of agriculture was approximately 9 trillion yuan, ranking first globally. During the same period, the amount of protection provided by agricultural insurance in China was around 5 trillion yuan, suggesting ample room for growth. Next, we will deepen the reform of agricultural insurance, broaden its service areas, and serve the high-quality development of agriculture. We will build a multi-level agricultural insurance product system, extending from protecting replacement costs to protecting economic value, and enhance the level of agricultural insurance protection. We will also promote the introduction of pure risk loss rates for major insurance types, industry model clauses for comprehensive cost insurance and planting income insurance, and precise policy documents for underwriting and claims, to promote the standardized operation of agricultural insurance.

In terms of climate change, we will also guide insurance enterprises to respond proactively and gradually launch innovative pilot projects such as weather-based index insurance and regional yield insurance. We will promote the gradual transformation of agricultural insurance from cost protection to income protection. We will also expand from covering only the production stage to covering the entire industrial chain. This will gradually form a comprehensive insurance protection system for agricultural development. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

One last question, please.

Science and Technology Daily:

In recent years, China has continued to strengthen financial support for scientific and technological innovation. What work has been carried out by the NFRA concerning the reform of technology finance? What aspects will be focused on in the next steps? Thank you. 

Wang Shengbang:

Thank you, media friends, for your keen interest in scientific and technological innovation. As you all know, China's economy is transitioning from a stage of high-speed development to one of high-quality development. Implementing an innovation-driven development strategy is a crucial focus. Within this overall strategy, sci-tech companies, particularly small- and medium-sized enterprises, play a vital role. Our primary tasks, both now and in the near future, are to further enhance innovation of technology finance, improve the financial sector's ability to serve scientific and technological innovation, and develop a sci-tech financial system that aligns with scientific and technological advancements. The NFRA has earnestly implemented the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and the Central Financial Work Conference. We have strengthened regulatory guidance to encourage banks and insurance institutions to increase their investment in sci-tech enterprises, giving priority to cultivating patient capital and long-term investment. As you all know, sci-tech enterprises have distinctly different characteristics from those in other industries. They are characterized by innovation-driven processes, technology intensity, high-growth potential, extended R&D cycles and high levels of uncertainty. Therefore, traditional financing models cannot fully adapt to their needs. In light of this, the NFRA has undertaken several initiatives.

First, we are improving the technology finance policy framework. The NFRA has issued guidelines on developing technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance for the banking and insurance sector. We have also issued a document on technology finance, namely the notice on strengthening full life-cycle financial services for sci-tech enterprises. This notice further optimizes the service mechanism for offering credit loans to sci-tech enterprises, guiding banking and insurance institutions to provide differentiated and targeted financial services to sci-tech enterprises in different industries and at different growth stages. The aim is to continuously improve service efficiency and adapt to the financial needs of different companies. Financial needs encompass both financing and intellectual support, and they vary at different stages of a company's development. A sci-tech start-up may require equity investment initially. During the growth stage, it might need loan financing. Upon reaching maturity, the company may seek more insurance products to hedge against uncertainty and risks. 

Second, we are actively developing innovative financial products. We have regulated the development of exclusive financial services such as “loans + outbound direct investment,” technology insurance, and supply chain finance for leading sci-tech enterprises. The NFRA has worked with the National Intellectual Property Administration to implement paperless online registration for intellectual property pledge financing nationwide, facilitating the financing of sci-tech enterprises. We are guiding large banks in conducting intellectual property valuation. This is crucial because registration and valuation are important prerequisites for obtaining financing. Without accurate valuation, loan issuance and financing face challenges. As Mr. Xiao just reported, by the end of June, the loan balance for high-tech companies in China had increased by 20% year on year, and the balance of intellectual property pledge loans had reached 234 billion yuan, up 38% year on year.

Third, we are further leveraging the risk protection capabilities and long-term funding advantages of insurance capital. Sci-tech enterprises inherently face high levels of uncertainty, which naturally aligns with the risk protection function of insurance. By the end of June, insurance companies had provided 6 trillion yuan in insurance coverage for risks associated with various stages of scientific and technological activities, including R&D, industrial application of advances, and application promotion. We have also supported the removal of policy barriers that previously hindered insurance funds from engaging in equity investment and venture capital investment. Some large insurance companies are now actively participating in various funds and equity investments. As of the end of July, long-term equity investments from insurance funds had reached 2.7 trillion yuan.

Fourth, we are improving regulatory incentives for technology finance and enhancing professional service capacities in this sector. Sci-tech enterprises have distinct characteristics: they are often asset-light, have long R&D cycles, and face considerable uncertainties. In the past, when banks assessed creditworthiness, they focused on traditional enterprises' assets and credit history, an approach based on tangible evaluations. This method doesn't suit sci-tech enterprises. To address this, we're working on further improving the credit evaluation system. We're encouraging a shift from the traditional focus on checking financial statements and collateral toward assessing capabilities, products, and future prospects. While traditional credit ratings look backward, credit ratings for sci-tech enterprises need to look forward. We're encouraging banks to develop differentiated credit evaluation systems that align with the operational characteristics of innovative sci-tech enterprises.

Innovative sci-tech enterprises undergo a lengthy process, from developing a single patent or technology to achieving mass production. Consequently, short-term performance evaluations struggle to accurately measure the success of equity investments and loans in this sector. We are encouraging banks to explore relatively longer-term performance assessment schemes, appropriately increase their tolerance for non-performing loans, and establish mechanisms to ensure that those which have fulfilled their duties are not held accountable.

Next, we will earnestly implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. With a reform-oriented mindset, we will take profound and practical measures to further advance the implementation of technology finance policies. We will establish comprehensive pilot zones for intellectual property financial ecosystems in areas with active scientific and technological innovation. These zones will provide diversified financial support to enterprises. We will explore the use of financial asset investment enterprises as platforms to expand the scope of equity investment pilot programs. We will investigate ways to raise the proportion of insurance funds that can be invested in venture capital funds. We'll support insurance companies' investments and encourage more insurance funds to act as long-term patient capital in the science and technology sector. We will also facilitate the participation of wealth management companies and other financial institutions in providing technology financial services in accordance with laws and regulations.

Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, today's briefing is hereby concluded. If you have any questions, you can contact us after the briefing. Thanks to all the speakers and all our media friends.

Translated and edited by Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, Zhou Jing, Huang Shan, Wang Ziteng, Qin Qi, Yuan Fang, Mi Xingang, Zhang Junmian, Liu Caiyi, Yang Chuanli, Li Huiru, Xu Kailin, Wang Yanfang, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Liu Haitao, deputy commissioner of the National Immigration Administration (NIA)

Ms. Peng Ling, director general of the Department of Citizens Exit-Entry Management of the NIA

Mr. Liu Jia, deputy director general of the Department of Foreigners Management of the NIA

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 19, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Liu Haitao, deputy commissioner of the National Immigration Administration (NIA), to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Ms. Peng Ling, director general of the Department of Citizens Exit-Entry Management of the NIA; and Mr. Liu Jia, deputy director general of the Department of Foreigners Management of the NIA.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Liu for his introduction. 

Liu Haitao:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. It's a great pleasure to meet you again. I would like to express my gratitude to you for your long-term interest in and support for the immigration management work. 

The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) issued the resolution on further deepening reform comprehensively. Established in April 2018 following reforms, the NIA has firmly implemented the series of important instructions and directives of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, regarding immigration management work. The NIA has continuously deepened immigration management reform as well as policy and institutional innovation, creating a secure, orderly and dynamic immigration management environment for high-quality development.

First, the NIA has significantly enhanced services to promote the nation's opening up and development. In line with the strategy of invigorating China through developing a quality workforce, we have implemented more proactive and effective immigration management policies to attract talent. This has involved improving a comprehensive response system for international talent in all links, including entry and exit, stay and residency, permanent residency, and social integration. We have facilitated and coordinated the introduction of a large number of international professionals across various fields such as science, education, culture, health and sports, including those urgently needed in critical sectors. These efforts have gathered an increasing amount of intellectual resources. By assembling the brightest minds from all over and fully drawing on their expertise, we aim to achieve greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology. We have proactively contributed to the creation of a new development pattern and accelerated the institutional opening up of immigration management. We have introduced over 300 measures to stabilize industrial and supply chains and to promote the development of shipping, saving shipping enterprises a total of 2.05 billion yuan in various fees since the beginning of the year. By helping enterprises ease difficulties, reduce costs and increase efficiency, we have consolidated and enhanced our new advantages in participating in international competition and cooperation. Furthermore, we have vigorously promoted personnel exchanges and interactions, issuing over 110 policies and measures to facilitate the entry of foreign nationals into China. We have continuously refined polices for visa-free entry, visa-free transit and port visas among others, leading to a steady rise in the number of foreign visitors. Recently, "China Travel" has gone viral online, with more foreign tourists witnessing firsthand a China that is open, confident, civil and safe. They have also personally experienced China's development achievements and the positive, united and hardworking spirit of its people. The 144-hour visa-free transit policy, which has become very popular recently, now covers 37 ports and 54 countries, and I believe vividly illustrates the high-level opening up and high-quality development of China's immigration management services.

Second, the NIA has consistently taken practical measures to make it easier for the public to obtain documents and handle procedures. In recent years, we have been dedicated to addressing people's expectations regarding exit and entry processes. To simplify document acquisition, we have introduced several policies, including "one-trip" and "nationwide accessibility" services for gaining exit and entry permits, full online processing for exit and entry permit replacement and reissuance, mainland services for replacing and reissuing the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, and options for Taiwan residents to obtain mainland travel permits online, at ports or through centralized agencies. These initiatives have made obtaining exit and entry permits faster, smoother and more economical for the public. To streamline customs clearance, we have taken measures to ensure that Chinese citizens wait no longer than 30 minutes in line, reducing the average inspection time to 45 seconds per person. Our customs clearance speed has been among the fastest in the world. To enhance service satisfaction, we have established the Government Service Platform of the National Immigration Administration, offering one-stop services including service appointment, document processing and exit-entry record inquiries. We have also launched the 12367 service hotline, providing 24/7 policy consultation. Additionally, we have rendered the use of exit-entry permits more convenient, so that Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents, as well as overseas Chinese, can enjoy convenience in 35 areas such as travel, communication and financial services, simply by using their exit-entry permits. 

Third, we have safeguarded national security and stability of borders through new efforts. High-quality development depends on high-level security. These last few years, we have always adhered to enforcement that is strict, standardized, impartial and civilized. We protect lawful actions, crack down on illegal ones and guide people to abide by the law, maintaining the normal order in entry and exit administration according to the law. The entry-exit and border inspections at ports are tight. Foreigners' visas are signed and issued in adherence with the rules. Border patrol and control have been strengthened. For four straight years, we have conducted special actions to combat criminal activities disturbing border management, cracking down on illegal border crossings, cross-border gambling and electronic fraud, the smuggling and trafficking of drugs as well as other cross-border illegal and criminal activities. This has resulted in a continuous decrease in the number of illegal border crossings, with the security situation at the border continuing to improve. After years of efforts, the order of entry-exit administration is the best in history. Immigration administration is becoming a brand-new window for China's efforts in advancing law-based governance and ensuring security. 

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee raised new requirements on further deepening reform and promoting modernization in immigration administration while injecting new momentum for implementation. We will thoroughly study and implement the spirit of the third plenary session, stepping up efforts to boost development while ensuring security, increasing vitality while maintaining order, and strengthening regulation while improving services in order to continue our contribution to Chinese modernization.

That's all for now. Next, my colleagues and I are happy to take your questions. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open to questions. Please identify the news agency you work for first.

Red Star News:

We have noticed that since last year China has trialed unilateral visa-free policies for several countries and has implemented mutual visa-free policies with other countries. In particular, our immigration authority has extended the coverage of the 144-hour visa-free stopover policy and has adjusted as well as eased port visa application requirements, among other policies and measures, with the aim to facilitate foreigners travelling to China. What results have these measures achieved? Do you plan to roll out more facilitative measures? Thank you.

Liu Haitao:

Thank you for the questions. I will address them. I just mentioned that the hashtag "China Travel" has recently gone viral on social media platforms worldwide. Thanks to this, our policies and measures that provide convenience to foreign visitors, including the 144-hour visa-free stopover, have become well-known. Over the years, the NIA has worked with relevant departments to expand the scope of the visa-free policy to include more countries, and has carried out a series of policies and measures to facilitate foreigners coming to China. These policies can be summarized in three aspects, as I will explain. 

First, the 144-hour visa-free stopover policy offers convenience to foreigners. The visa-free transit policy has been implemented since January 2013, with eligible countries and ports, length of stay, and areas for stay continuously being optimized. Since the beginning of this year, this policy has further released dividends, attracting foreign tourists and making the increasing openness of China more well-known.  

Second, differentiated visa-free transit policies attract foreign visitors from diverse regions. These policies include: 144-hour visa-free entry for foreign tour groups to Guangdong via Hong Kong and Macao; 144-hour visa-free entry for tour groups from ASEAN countries to Guilin, Guangxi; 30-day visa-free stay for visitors from 59 countries entering Hainan; and 15-day visa-free stay for foreign tour groups on cruises across China's coastal provinces. Recently, we launched a 144-hour visa-free transit for foreign tour groups entering Hainan via Hong Kong and Macao. More than 5.9 million foreign tourists have benefited. 

Third, we have innovated port visa policies to attract foreign businesses by further easing the requirements for port visa applications. Foreigners who urgently need to come to China to engage in business, trade, visits and other activities can apply for port visas with 100 relevant authorities in 73 cities. We provide many convenient services for foreign business personnel and investors, including re-entry visas, to ensure their easy entry and easy stay. 

These policies are complementary and synergistic, and the benefits are multifaceted. The most direct change they bring is the rapid increase of foreign visitors to China. According to NIA statistics, from January to July of this year, a total of 17.25 million foreigners have entered China via different ports, an increase of 129.9% year on year. The number of port visas issued was 846,000, an increase of 182.9% year on year. 

The most significant impact has been the direct boost to China's inbound tourism market. According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics in 2023, foreign tourists visiting China spend an average of 3,459 yuan daily, which is expected to directly boost consumption by over 100 billion yuan.

Moving forward, we will continue to optimize and improve policies and measures such as visa-free transit. We plan to expand the scope of activities, increase interconnected regions, and enhance our openness strategy. These efforts will further increase the value and appeal of our policies. Additionally, we will actively coordinate with relevant departments to improve convenience for foreigners visiting and staying in China.

I would also like to extend an invitation to our friends from around the world. We welcome you to visit China at your convenience and experience firsthand the beauty of China in the new era. China's doors are always wide open to you. We welcome your visit. Thank you.

The Poster News APP:

Currently, residents in 20 cities, including Beijing, can apply for and renew their exit-entry documents online without requiring an in-person visit. Could you share the experiences gained from these pilot programs? Will the scope of these trials be expanded in the future? Thank you.

Liu Haitao:

I'd like to invite Ms. Peng to answer your questions.

Peng Ling:

Thank you for your question. To further advance online reforms in immigration services, we launched a pilot program on May 6 this year in 20 cities, including Beijing, allowing local residents to apply for and renew their exit-entry documents entirely online. In the past three months, we have issued documents to more than 70,000 people, earning widespread praise from the public.

Our experience can be summarized as follows: First, we prioritize convenience for the public as the primary focus of reform. The "fully online process" has expanded options for handling exit-entry documents, allowing people to apply with just a few clicks anytime, anywhere, saving applicants significant time and effort. This meets the public's expectations for immigration management services that can be fully handled online and strengthens our confidence to continue deepening reform based on people's needs. Second, we prioritize the protection of citizens' personal information. We enforce strict security standards and rigorous measures. We have established a robust network security system to safeguard information storage and transmission, ensuring the absolute security of citizens' personal information. Third, we focus on problem-solving. During the pilot phase, some applicants reported issues with the online system's user-friendliness and low acceptance rate for submitted photos. In response, we quickly optimized over 20 functional modules and created step-by-step instructional video guides, continually boosting user experience and satisfaction.

Since the beginning of this year, the implementation of convenient measures, including the fully online process, has boosted the issuance of entry and exit documents. To date, we've issued 15.82 million regular passports and 61.73 million exit-entry permits and endorsements for Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, representing year-on-year increases of 25% and 6%, respectively.

Next, we will promptly evaluate the outcomes of the pilot programs. Following the principles of "safety first and orderly progression," we plan to gradually expand the range of pilot cities, document types, and eligible applicant groups, allowing more people to enjoy the benefits brought by these reform measures.

Thank you.

People's Daily:

In recent years, with China's rapid economic development and increasing openness, mainland residents have shown a strong demand for international travel, business and study. The number of travelers crossing national borders has been steadily rising. What measures has the NIA taken to serve and support mainland residents' exit and entry needs, and what have been the results? What favorable policies or measures are planned for the future? Thank you.

Peng Ling:

Thank you for your question. As you noted, our country's high-quality socio-economic development has increased mainland residents' desire for international travel. Public interest in immigration management services is strong, with high expectations for international standards and work performance. In response, we are committed to establishing a modern immigration management system and mechanism that aligns with new institutions for a higher-standard open economy.

First, we have always adhered to performing our duties according to the law, having firmly established the concept of strict, standardized, impartial and civilized enforcement as well as resolutely preventing and cracking down on illegal and criminal activities that involve the field of exit and entry while effectively safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of citizens. By continuously improving our governance capabilities, we have established a lawful, safe and orderly exit and entry management, providing solid and smooth guarantees for Chinese citizens and enterprises to go global.

Second, in the reform driven by the one-stop government services initiative, we have continuously streamlined application documents, optimized certificate issuance procedures, scientifically set up service windows, and increased technological empowerment. As a result, the entry/exit documents application has evolved from a nationwide, one-stop service that required a one-time visit to an intelligent express service that is fully processed online and doesn't require any visit.

Third, we have continually enhanced the efficiency of entry and exit and border inspections. By setting up dedicated channels for Chinese citizens at ports with heavy passenger traffic, we have brought warm feelings to those traveling afar and returning home. Express lanes have been established at over 200 land, sea and air ports to further shorten customs clearance time and improve travel experiences. Furthermore, we have implemented joint inspection and one-time release at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Hengqin Port, effectively alleviating congestion at large ports.

Additionally, to safeguard the entry and exit rights and security interests of Chinese citizens, we have collaborated with diplomatic departments to promote more countries to facilitate the entry, stay and residency of Chinese citizens. We proactively strengthen security risk warnings, guiding citizens to avoid dangerous regions and preventing personal harm and property losses. We also respond to and cooperate with our overseas institutions around the clock, promptly and properly handling overseas emergencies and actively providing emergency services and support to citizens and their families.

In the next step, we will continue to wholeheartedly do practical and beneficial things and solve difficulties for the people, providing more high-quality, efficient and convenient immigration management services for the vast number of people entering and leaving the country, continuously enhancing people's sense of fulfillment, happiness and security.

Thank you!

Global Times:

On Dec. 1 of last year, the NIA officially launched the issuance of a new ID card for foreign permanent residents, also known as the "five-star card." May I inquire about its current effect and the conveniences it offers in use? Thank you.

Liu Jia:

Thank you for your questions. The "five-star card" is a legal identity document issued by the NIA to eligible foreigners who have been approved for permanent residency in China. The issuance of this card is an important measure of the NIA to implement the strategy for making China a talent-strong country as well as to serve and safeguard the country's high-standard opening up and attract talents and investment. Since Dec. 1 of last year, the number of international talents applying for the new Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, or the "five-star card," has increased by 30% year on year, which is closely related to the facilitation that the card brings. Allow me to briefly introduce some of its conveniences.

In terms of transportation, the "five-star card" can be used to purchase train, air and bus tickets online and offline. It can also be used for ticket checking, check-ins and security checks at airports, train and bus stations and other venues equipped with self-service devices by simply swiping the card. For accommodations, the "five-star card" can be used alone to check in and register at hotels by swiping the card. In terms of communications, it can be used to apply for fixed-line telephones, to register mobile phone accounts and to subscribe to broadband services at telecommunication service outlets. For financial services, the "five-star card" can be used as proof of identity to open accounts, manage finances and conduct other businesses at commercial banks, insurance companies and securities firms. Additionally, the "five-star card" has been integrated into the system for access to all government services through one single portal, enabling holders to enjoy mobile payments, utility bill payments, public transportation and other services via over 30 internet applications such as WeChat, Alipay and Douyin. It is fair to say that the "five-star card" is as convenient and user-friendly as a Chinese resident identity card in public service areas.

To facilitate the renewal of the "five-star card," we have implemented a service that facilitates the submission of application by card holders at service locations near their permanent residences. In the next step, we will work with relevant authorities to further expand the social application functions of the "five-star card," making it even more convenient and user-friendly. Thank you!

CCTV:

With the rapid development of China's economy and the continuous expansion of its opening-up policy, Chinese ports are experiencing a significant surge in the volume and speed of inbound and outbound traffic for both people and goods. Given this situation, what measures has the NIA taken to ensure the security and smooth functioning of ports nationwide? What achievements have been made?

Liu Haitao:

Thank you for your questions. I'll answer them. According to the NIA, 341 million inbound and outbound trips were made from January to July this year, an increase of 62.34% year on year. Additionally, 18.176 million cross-border trips were made by various modes of transport, including aircraft, vehicles, ships and trains, representing a 52.09% year-on-year increase. These figures demonstrate that an open China provides enjoyable travel for passengers and ensures the smooth transport of goods. This smooth flow is closely tied to the immigration administration's policy support.

As for the effectiveness of these policies, I would say they can be encapsulated by the terms "more convenient" and "more efficient."

First, we have more efficiently ensured the smooth flow of industrial and supply chains. We've set up customs clearance "green channels" for major cargo flights at hub airports and implemented priority processing for critical and time-sensitive shipments. We've enacted simplified border procedures for direct round-trip flights and connecting flights. Additionally, we've introduced a one-stop border clearance policy for international passenger and cargo flights on direct round-trip routes entering and exiting the country. For maritime ports, we've adopted time-saving and cost-reducing measures to help businesses, including 10 measures to promote the construction of shipping hubs in the Yangtze River Delta, 16 measures to support shipping enterprises, and a zero-wait policy for inbound international vessels and a zero-delay policy for outbound vessels. Moreover, we have fully digitized border inspection services for matters requiring government approval, with more than 95% of border inspections now processed entirely online. We have introduced "fast channels" at land ports for key cross-border freight vehicles, ensuring immediate inspection upon arrival and expedited customs clearance. As such, 78,000 China-Europe freight train trips have enjoyed immediate inspection upon arrival at border crossings, with an average annual growth rate of 23.4%. The China-Europe Railway Express now delivers vegetables and fruits from Henan and Shandong provinces to Europe 30 days faster than maritime shipping. 

Second, we have streamlined entry and exit procedures at border crossings for greater convenience. As I mentioned previously, the average border inspection time for Chinese citizens has been reduced to 45 seconds. I'd like to share two more data sets that are highly representative. The average clearance time per person at over 2,400 fast lanes in all 227 designated inspection ports for travelers nationwide is less than 15 seconds. As a result, over 1 million inbound and outbound travelers now enjoy efficient and convenient border clearance services every day. The average customs clearance time for vehicles at Hengqin port is no more than 2 minutes. Thanks to the new border inspection model, ports cooperate with each other to implement one-off customs clearance. This promotes the integrated development of Hengqin and Macao. There are a lot of other data sets similar to this. For example, we have implemented facilitation arrangements for border entry and exit for Belt and Road countries in 24 ports, setting up more than 200 special channels. This has enabled 10.66 million inbound and outbound trips by personnel from countries along the Belt and Road in the first half of the year, a 1.6-fold increase compared with the same period last year. Moreover, we've introduced a policy of 24-hour direct transit without border checks this year at nine hub airports: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Xiamen, Chengdu and Xi'an. Therefore, over 2 million travelers have enjoyed this direct transit service without undergoing border check procedures in the past seven months. 

Going forward, the NIA will continue to actively and prudently advance the institutional opening-up of immigration management. We aim to offer more support for Chinese enterprises, products and personnel venturing abroad while attracting more foreign investment, investors and enterprises. These efforts are designed to serve and promote high-quality development. Thank you. 

Zhinews of Shenzhen Satellite TV:  

With the rapid development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the high-quality development of Belt and Road cooperation, Hong Kong and Macao are integrating themselves into China's overall development at an unprecedented scale and depth. In July, the NIA, in accordance with the law, began issuing mainland travel permits to non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao. What benefits does this new policy offer? How has the permit issuance process progressed so far? Thank you.

Liu Haitao:

You raise a good question. This matter has been receiving a lot of attention online recently. I would like to invite Ms. Peng to answer your question.

Peng Ling:

Thank you for your question. Non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao participate in and contribute to the development of the two special administrative regions. Granting them with mainland travel permits is a major reform measure that embodies our full and accurate implementation of the One Country, Two Systems policy. It also aligns with the new demands and expectations of the Hong Kong and Macao societies, significantly accelerating institutional openness in the field of entry and exit.

There are advantages for permit holders in contrast to the previous requirement of a passport for travel. First, the permit's five-year validity allows for unlimited travel to and from the mainland, facilitating spontaneous trips. Furthermore, each entry allows for a stay of up to 90 days on the mainland, fully meeting the practical demands of investment negotiations, business collaboration, scientific exchanges and personal visits. Additionally, permit holders benefit from expedited customs clearance, as they are exempt from filling out entry cards and can use fast-track lanes at border inspections, thereby experiencing China's speed and efficiency.

Since the policy took effect on July 10, in just over one month, nearly 30,000 non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao have applied for permits. Some individuals have already enjoyed the enhanced efficiency and convenience of this streamlined border crossing process on the very day they received their permits.

Looking ahead, we will further explore and expand the practical applications of the One Country, Two Systems policy in the realm of entry and exit strategies. Our goal is to enhance mutual exchanges between the peoples of the mainland, Hong Kong and Macao, continually injecting new impetus into the socioeconomic development of Hong Kong and Macao. Thank you.

China Daily:

Just now, Mr. Liu mentioned that the NIA has facilitated, coordinated and served the introduction of a large number of international talents in various fields such as science, education, culture, health and sports. Could you provide more details on the outcomes achieved so far and outline the future plans in this respect? Thank you.

Liu Jia:

Thank you for your question. General Secretary Xi Jinping pointed out that "to develop our cause well, it is essential to select the best minds of the world." In recent years, based on China's national conditions and the needs of high-quality economic and social development, the NIA has systematically optimized and improved visa, residence, permanent residence, naturalization and other policies and measures, providing strong support and guarantees for international professionals living and working in China.

First, we aim to attract and retain more talent. We have relaxed visa regulations, allowing eligible foreigners to obtain multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years at Chinese embassies and consulates abroad. For those unable to secure visas before arrival, entry visas can be issued at ports of entry. In cases where legitimate reasons necessitate frequent international travel, we offer facilities to issue or renew multiple-entry visas. Notably, professionals invited to engage in technical collaborations, economic and trade activities at leading Chinese universities, research institutions and renowned companies, as well as high-level talents and their teams working in China, are eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for two to five years.

Second, we aim to ensure a secure and supportive environment for talent. To facilitate this, we have streamlined and simplified the procedures for international talents working and living in China. In collaboration with relevant departments, we have implemented a "one-stop" service for foreigners applying for work permits and work-type residence permits that allows for simultaneous applications, approvals and issuances. We support leading domestic universities, research institutions and large enterprises in their efforts to recruit international talents. Additionally, those transferred within their organizations across regional boundaries are exempt from the need to reapply for residence permits. Qualified high-level foreign professionals are allowed to hold concurrent positions for innovative and entrepreneurial activities upon registration. Furthermore, we have actively engaged with employers, carefully aligning talent supply with demand, establishing linkage mechanisms and consistently devising strategies to help organizations attract and retain talent.

Finally, we aim to improve the living standards of international talents residing in China. We have issued a new version of the foreign permanent resident ID card, known as the "five-star card," and promoted convenient social applications. We have launched the China Immigration Service Hotline 12367 that provides 24/7 service worldwide, and launched the NIA website covering the six official languages of the United Nations. We have also promoted the construction of immigration service centers and sites, which have greatly improved the quality of life for international talent in China.

Next, we will implement the plan set forth by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee to "explore avenues for establishing an immigration system for highly-skilled personnel." We will actively collaborate with relevant departments to enhance policy research and refine system design, with the aim of providing highly-skilled personnel working and living in China with more comprehensive, convenient and efficient immigration management policies. Thank you.

New Yellow River App:

Could you elaborate on the new characteristics and changes in illegal land border crossings and smuggling at ports in recent years? Additionally, what measures has the NIA taken to ensure the safety and stability of the nation's borders and the normal order of exit and entry, and what results have been achieved? Thank you.

Liu Haitao:

Thank you for your question. I will address this. In recent years, with changes in the international landscape and regional geopolitical situations, illegal activities affecting border management have also exhibited new trends and characteristics. In the field of immigration management, this is primarily reflected in two aspects: First, in border areas, illegal exits of Chinese nationals have been curbed, with the number of apprehended individuals decreasing by 30% compared to last year. However, due to various factors, there has been an increase in the number of foreign nationals illegally entering for work through cross-border smuggling. We have been closely monitoring this. Second, at open ports, domestic and international smuggling gangs have been collaborating. They recruit individuals, falsify invitation letters, defraud social security payments and mask would-be smugglers as businesspeople or qualified company employees to obtain travel documents. These gangs then organize them to engage in cross-border criminal activities abroad. There remains a notable phenomenon of criminal groups organizing mainland residents to travel via Hong Kong and Macao to countries in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Central and South America for transit smuggling.

To ensure the safety and stability of national borders and the normal order of entry and exit, the NIA has coordinated and guided immigration management institutions nationwide to deepen the integrated approach of "strike, investigate, manage, treat and coordinate" in combating all forms of illegal activities affecting national border management.

We have continuously carried out special crackdown operations. As I mentioned earlier, we have been conducting the "Mongoose" operation for four consecutive years. The mongoose, a natural enemy of snakes, symbolizes our operation. Relying on the "Mongoose" initiative, we have strengthened supervision over major and serious cases, and centrally deployed cluster campaigns. This approach has enabled concentrated analysis of similar cases, collaborative investigation of cross-regional cases, and comprehensive strikes against entire criminal networks. We have successfully severed numerous smuggling routes and effectively dismantled many illegal profit chains, effectively deterring the audacity of criminals both domestically and abroad.

We have enhanced targeted inspections at border ports. In fulfilling our statutory responsibilities for border inspections, we promptly analyze trends in cross-border crimes such as smuggling and dynamically adjust targeted inspection measures to rigorously monitor and prevent illegal entry and exit activities.

We have strengthened border patrols and controls. We have improved the three-dimensional border defense system by leveraging physical, technological and human defenses. This includes effective management of mountain passes, trails and ferry points that connect to external areas, further reinforcing the border defense line.

We have also implemented source management in critical areas. By integrating the dual strategies of enforcement and governance, we have integrated anti-smuggling efforts into grassroots comprehensive governance. We have conducted concentrated rectification activities in these areas, closing down non-compliant and illegal intermediary agencies and investigating non-compliant and illegal businesses. As a result, smuggling in critical areas has been effectively curbed.

We have continuously deepened international law enforcement cooperation, strengthening collaboration with relevant countries and regions. We have improved mechanisms for sharing intelligence, jointly investigating and handling cases, and pursuing and capturing fugitives. Efforts in the overseas "Mongoose" operation have been ramped up, resolutely squeezing the space for criminals abroad to evade justice.

Since this year, more than 22,000 illegal and criminal cases that obstruct border administrations have been solved nationwide, resulting in the arrest of over 39,000 criminal suspects. More than 6,000 illegal immigrants have been apprehended and 103 fugitive targets who had fled abroad have been successfully captured in cooperation with relevant countries. The effectiveness of these actions in deterring and combating such crimes continues to grow. Moving forward, the NIA will remain focused on the overall situation of national political security as well as economic and social development. We will unwaveringly apply a holistic approach to national security. With higher standards, more detailed planning and more concrete measures, we will maintain a strong and sustained crackdown on various crimes that hinder national (border) security. Our goal is to fully safeguard national political security, border stability and the proper order of entry and exit. Thank you!

21st Century Business Herald:

In recent years, the NIA has released a series of policies to facilitate personnel exchange between mainland and Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. What are the policies' effects? What future deployment and arrangements can we expect? Thank you. 

Peng Ling: 

Thank you for your questions. In recent years, we have continued to innovate policy provisions and have rolled out measures that facilitate mainland citizens' travel to and from Hong Kong and Macao. First, in promoting the movement of talent, we have piloted the issuing of a "talent visa" in Beijing, Shanghai and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area for six professional categories in the fields of science, education, culture and health. So far, over 23,000 high-level talents have been issued these visas, allowing them to make unlimited trips to Hong Kong and Macao for periods of 1 to 5 years. Each stay can last up to 30 days, providing ample time for research exchanges and academic discussions, which significantly facilitates the free, convenient and efficient flow of talent and technology. In promoting economic and trade exchanges, business personnel can apply for business permits conveniently at over 4,000 entry-exit service windows across China. The duration of each stay in Hong Kong and Macao has been extended from 7 to 14 days. In advancing the development of the tourism industry, we have added 10 new cities, including Xi'an and Qingdao, as eligible for "individual visit schemes," increasing the total number of included cities to 59. In addition, we have allowed tourist groups to make multiple trips between Macao and Hengqin via the Hengqin Port, supporting the integrated development of tourism between Hengqin and Macao. 

At the same time, we have been continuing to introduce entry and exit policies and measures that facilitate Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents' travel to and from the mainland. In serving Hong Kong and Macao residents, we have introduced policy allowing Hong Kong and Macao residents to replace and renew their mainland travel permits on the mainland, ending over 40 years of requiring residents to return to Hong Kong or Macao to complete these processes. Like mainland residents, they can now enjoy the convenience of applying in a single visit at a nearby service window and receiving the permit through postal delivery. So far, 312,000 people have benefited from this service. In serving Taiwan residents, we have focused on addressing their needs and have established specialized windows for Taiwan compatriots and companies, as well as entry-exit service stations. Since the beginning of this year, we have issued 798,000 certificates to Taiwan residents, a 21.6% year-on-year increase. We fully support Fujian province in building a demonstration zone for the integrated development across the Straits, rolling out 10 convenient measures including online application for the mainland travel permits for Taiwan residents. They can also apply for longer travel permits upon arrival or entrust travel agencies to make the application and then retrieve the documents upon arrival at the port of entry. These measures enable Taiwan compatriots to enjoy the benefits of integrated development and kinship between Fujian and Taiwan. The number of Taiwan residents applying for residency in Fujian has now exceeded the total of the previous 10 years. In addition, we have established an ID verification service platform for entry-exit documents to better serve Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents living and working on the mainland. Together with 17 other departments, including the Ministry of Transport and the People's Bank of China, we have actively promoted the convenient use of the mainland travel permits for Hong Kong and Macao residents and the mainland travel permits for Taiwan residents in areas such as government services and public services on the mainland, ensuring that they can handle affairs smoothly and travel with peace of mind with just one certificate. So far, we have provided free, real-time identity verification services to 110 million people.

Looking ahead, we will continue to deepen reform and innovation in entry and exit administration services, better maintain the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macao, and actively promote the integrated development across the Straits. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Next question, please. I notice two journalists have their hand raised. 

China News Service:

As the number of inbound and outbound travelers continues to rise, we would like to know what assistance the immigration authorities provide for them when they encounter problems and difficulties during entry and exit activities. Thank you.

Liu Jia:

Thank you for your question. Pressing difficulties and problems that concern inbound and outbound travelers the most are also the focus and responsibility of immigration authorities. China's 12367 immigration service platform, launched on April 8, 2021, has become a "customer service center" to help solve these difficulties and problems.

Why put it this way? First of all, the 12367 service platform is "capable of answering" all inquiries, and it always responds whenever there is a question. As the first government hotline in China that provides direct, bilingual human services in Chinese and English to both domestic and overseas callers, it has received and handled in the past three years of operation a total of 12.768 million calls with regard to immigration-related service consultation, suggestions and advice. The service covers 147 countries and regions around the world. Moreover, the 12367 service platform is capable of "handling problems", as it can offer timely and effective access to services. Besides the hotline, the NIA's official website, "National Immigration Administration Government Service Platform 12367" mobile app as well as WeChat and Alipay mini programs also have access to the functions of the "12367 online service," providing 24/7 bilingual human service or intelligent real-time response services in Chinese and English, truly offering a service that is always online, dutiful and continuous.

In addition to 12367, we also have launched a government website in the six official U.N. languages of Chinese, English, Russian, French, Spanish and Arabic, and offer functions such as guidance on immigration management, and office information query, making facilitations for Chinese and foreign personnel to inquire about China's immigration management services, keep abreast of relevant laws and regulations, and obtain other information they need. Since the website went online, the number of visits in total has been over 1.58 billion.

In the next step, we will continue to optimize the 12367 service platform and multilingual versions of our website, expand channels and functions of services, and make greater efforts to provide more efficient and convenient services to facilitate the entry and exit of personnel. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Last question, please.

Nanfang Metropolis Daily:

The resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee said that China will pursue high-standard opening up. It also stressed that we will improve relevant measures to make it more convenient for people from outside the mainland to live, receive medical services and make payments on the mainland. What arrangements have been made by the National Immigration Administration with regard to that? Thank you.

Liu Haitao:

Thank you for your question. I will take it. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee adopted the Resolution of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization, putting forward specific requirements for improving relevant measures to make it more convenient for people from outside the mainland to live on the mainland, improving the support mechanisms for recruiting talent from overseas, and exploring avenues for establishing an immigration system for highly-skilled personnel, thus sending a clear signal of expanding high-standard opening up. Immigration management work is at the forefront of opening up as well as at the intersection between domestic and international dual circulation. To thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and safeguard high-quality development, it is critical to steadily expand institutional opening up on the basis of ensuring security. We will take the revision of the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China as an opportunity, accelerating the improvement of the immigration management institution that has comparative advantages and is aligned with international economic and trade rules, so as to provide a sound immigration management environment for fostering a new development paradigm, accelerating the development of new quality productive forces and promoting high-quality development.

In combination with the functions of immigration management, I believe that we can make great progress in the following aspects.

First, we will further support the work related to attracting, gathering and keeping talent. In combination with the characteristics of cross-border flow of talent and the developmental law of talent cultivation, we will focus on key links such as facilitating the entry and exit of highly-skilled personnel, their stay and residency, permanent residency, as well as naturalization as Chinese nationals and restoration of Chinese nationality, and vigorously attract overseas high-level talent to pursue their development, business and other innovative ventures in China, enhancing the confidence of global talent in their long-term development in China.

Second, we will further advance high-standard opening up. We will contribute to the development of new institutions for a higher-standard open economy. We will introduce new policies for immigration management to serve major national strategies, minimize social costs and boost the vitality and creativity of market entities. We will empower the development of new quality productive forces, make the institutional supply of the immigration management better adapted to the development of strategic emerging industries and future industries, improve the system of immigration management policies and regulations, making them conducive to the smooth flow of various quality production factors, and propel immigration management to better integrate into and serve the modern economic system. We will facilitate personnel exchange between China and other countries, continuing to optimize the visa-free transit policy, regional visa-free entry policy and port visa policy, and thus making it easier for foreign nationals to work, study and travel in China as well as promoting high-standard opening up through institutional opening up in the area of immigration management.

Third, we will further improve government services for immigration management. We will make administrative approval more efficient. Just now, my two colleagues also shared some information. In the next step, we will make more frequently-used services be accessible at one stop, near people's homes, online and at one time. We will facilitate customs clearance, carry out reservations for rapid customs clearance of cross-border vehicles, promote the mode for fast vehicle customs clearance as well as the mode for mobile inspection and release, continue to explore application of innovative facial recognition and other technologies in the field of border inspection and customs clearance, strengthen the construction of new inspection infrastructure and cutting-edge equipment, further optimize the inspection process, and improve the efficiency of customs clearance, so as to ensure the efficient and smooth flows of personnel, commodities and other factors of production. We will refine social integration services, expand convenient application scenarios for entry and exit documentation, accelerate the multi-channel, multilingual and intelligent development of the 12367 service platform, create an "Internet+" government service brand that is globally-oriented, has complete functions and enjoys high public satisfaction, and make greater effort to remove obstacles and chokepoints in various services for overseas personnel that are traveling, working and living in China.

Thank you!

Xing Huina:

Today's briefing is hereby concluded. Thank you to the three speakers and our friends from the media. Goodbye everyone.

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Wang Wei, Liu Sitong, Wang Qian, Liu Caiyi, Wang Yiming, Wang Ziteng, Gong Yingchun, Huang Shan, Liao Jiaxin, Li Huiru, Yang Chuanli, Liu Qiang, Liu Jianing, Xu Kailin, Zhang Junmian, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Pu Chun, vice minister of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) and administrator of the National Certification and Accreditation Administration

Mr. Wang Guowei, deputy director general of the Department of Comprehensive Planning of the SAMR

Mr. Zhou Zhigao, director general of the Department of Competition Policy Coordination of the SAMR

Mr. Liu Sanjiang, director general of the Bureau of Quality Development of the SAMR

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 16, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Mr. Pu Chun, vice minister of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) and administrator of the National Certification and Accreditation Administration, to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Wang Guowei, deputy director general of the Department of Comprehensive Planning of the SAMR; Mr. Zhou Zhigao, director general of the Department of Competition Policy Coordination of the SAMR; and Mr. Liu Sanjiang, director general of the Bureau of Quality Development of the SAMR.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Pu for his introduction. 

Pu Chun:

Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I'm very glad to attend this press conference with my colleagues, and to speak with you about how market regulation has supported high-quality development in recent years. 

The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) drew a grand blueprint for building a modern socialist country in all respects, with high-quality development being the top priority in this endeavor. In recent years, market regulatory authorities have adhered to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts. They have better coordinated efficiency and fairness, vitality and order, as well as development and security, striving to fulfill their role in supporting overall high-quality development. The achievements are mainly reflected in five aspects:

First, market regulation systems and rules have consistently been improved. We have focused on refining a unified market regulatory framework. For example, we have facilitated introducing and implementing the regulation on the registration management of market entities as well as the revised Company Law and its supporting rules. We have amended the Anti-Monopoly Law, pushed for the introduction of regulations for fair competition reviews, and advanced the revision of interim regulations on the disclosure of information regarding companies' practices. Additionally, we have issued an interim regulation against unfair competition in cyberspace. These efforts have provided strong support for constantly improving the systems underpinning the market economy.

Second, the development quality of business entities has been continuously increased. We have worked to unleash the internal driving forces and creativity of various business entities, establishing and refining an evaluation system for their development quality. We have launched 22 measures to promote the private economy's development, and promoted the practice of "getting one thing done efficiently" in areas such as business deregistration. We have provided precise and effective support for the development of self-employed individuals. In 2023, the number of registered business entities nationwide reached 184 million, with a year-on-year increase of 0.69% in business activity, and the average lifespan of exiting enterprises was extended by 0.64 years.

Third, the fair competitive market environment has been further optimized. We have thoroughly implemented policies for fair competition and continuously enhanced the rigid restraints of fair competition review. We have strengthened regulation and law enforcement against monopolies and unfair competition, effectively ensuring fair market competition. Since the implementation of the mechanisms for fair competition, a total of 1.62 million policies and measures have been reviewed nationwide, abolishing or revising 93,000 policies and measures that eliminate or limit competition. Since the beginning of this year, we have investigated and prosecuted, in accordance with the law, four cases of monopoly agreements and market dominance abuse, 6,076 cases of unfair competition, and 10 cases of abusing administrative power to exclude or restrict competition. After the implementation of revised rules on declaration standards regarding the concentration of business operators, the number of declarations decreased by 13% year on year, making business investments and mergers more convenient. Surveys show that over 80% of enterprises are satisfied with the professionalism of competition-related law enforcement.

Fourth, stronger guidance and support on quality and standards have been provided. We have accelerated improvements to quality infrastructure to adapt to the modernized industrial system. Efforts have been focused on advancing key initiatives, including a special campaign to strengthen supply chains through quality improvement and signature projects to stabilize chains through standardization. We also formulated an action plan to promote equipment renewal and consumer goods trade-ins by improving standards. Since this year, 628 quality improvement projects have been launched nationwide to strengthen supply chains. We've also revised and newly formulated 84 key national standards. Additionally, we've announced 112 national standards in areas such as energy efficiency, home appliances and gas equipment. We've also established and refined quality certification systems for key industries and are accelerating the opening up of high-level certification and accreditation systems to support high-quality development. To date, 3.91 million quality certification certificates have been issued, covering over 1 million organizations. China has joined 21 international conformity assessment organizations and has signed 15 multilateral mutual recognition agreements and 128 bilateral cooperation and mutual recognition agreements.

Fifth, progress has been made in comprehensive market order governance. We've focused on regulating the use of discretionary administrative powers in market affairs to improve regulation-based law enforcement. The consumer environment has been further optimized by fully implementing a public complaint information disclosure system and improving recall management systems. We've developed and strengthened a market regulation safety responsibility system that emphasizes increasing efforts at the primary and grassroots levels to ensure tangible, real-world results. This approach has further enhanced our risk control mechanisms across key areas, including safety in food, drugs, industrial products and special equipment. So far this year, market regulation authorities at all levels have handled 315,000 cases, resulting in fines and confiscations totaling 1.7 billion yuan ($240 million). The national 12315 hotline platform has seen a 33.7% year-on-year increase in complaints, reports, and inquiries, recovering 2.04 billion yuan in economic losses for consumers. There have also been 150 automobile recalls involving 6.678 million vehicles and 485 consumer product recalls involving 3.129 million items.

The present and the near future constitute a critical period for our endeavor to build a great country and move toward national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. We will thoroughly implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Our efforts will focus on major reform tasks like building a high-standard socialist market economy, promoting high-quality economic development, building a unified national market, refining the systems underpinning the market economy, improving the institutions and mechanisms for fostering new quality productive forces in line with local conditions, pushing forward the innovative development of the platform economy while improving the system for its routine regulation, and enhancing the overall market regulation capabilities. These reforms will contribute our part to China's modernization through high-quality development.

That is all for my introduction. Now, my colleagues and I will be pleased to answer your questions. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the news outlet you represent before raising your questions.

Shenzhen Satellite TV:

An increasing number of people are paying attention to the credibility of business entities. Could you update us on the progress of building a credibility system for businesses? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

In recent years, market regulators have accelerated the development of a business credibility system. This includes establishing credibility records, publicizing credit information, promoting incentives for trustworthy behavior, penalizing trust breaches, and implementing categorized credit risk management.

Since its launch, the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System has averaged 131 million visits and over 16 million inquiries daily. Consumers and market participants can easily access comprehensive information about a business's operations and credibility, enabling them to make informed judgments. Information disclosure is now widely seen as a supervisory tool, demonstrating how credit oversight can facilitate public governance and support high-quality business development.

An increasing number of businesses are prioritizing their credit status. On the one hand, the SAMR has intensified its three-year campaign to improve business credit, focusing on laying a solid foundation, empowering leading market players, improving services, and enhancing overall credit levels. On the other hand, we are gradually refining the joint work system for credit restoration, ensuring that information on restoration outcomes is shared and mutually recognized and addressing redundant restoration processes.

Besides, we have continued to enrich our credit supervision toolbox and have implemented inclusive and prudential regulations. We have implemented, across the board, the classification management for enterprise credit risks, with classification results being regularly used in practices such as the random selection of inspectors and inspection targets and the prompt release of results. This random selection method has led to a 51.9% increase in the number of issues detected. Enterprises' credit information will be shared in various ways to all departments. By the end of July, 11.331 billion pieces of data had been directly provided and 2.032 billion interface call services has been offered, supporting coordinated supervision. We have explored sharing credit supervision data with platform enterprises, supporting Zhejiang province and Haidian district of Beijing in sharing such data with platform enterprises on a trial basis. In places like Shenzhen and Hangzhou, pilot work has been done to check information of individual businesses via WeChat and Alipay platforms. All these have contributed to the exploration of enhancing joint governance with platform enterprises. We have promoted the joint construction of credit initiatives in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and Yangtze River Delta Region, as well as initiated the joint construction of a credit system in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, empowering regional coordinated development and serving national major strategies. 

Going forward, the SAMR will follow the principle of "improving the social credit system and related oversight institutions" proposed by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, continuing to focus on the central task of building a market entities credit system. With enhancing enterprise credit as the main task, information collection and publication as the foundation, credit constraint and discipline as the key, dual random selection supervision model as the lever and credit risk classification as the basis, we will continue to leverage the role of credit to empower high-quality development. By doing so, the improvement of the credit environment will drive the improvement of the market environment, business environment and development environment. Thank you. 

People's Daily:

This year the State Council has launched an initiative to optimize administrative services and promote one-stop government services. What has the SAMR done to implement the initiative by the State Council? 

Pu Chun:

I'll ask my colleague, Wang Guowei, to respond to this question.

Wang Guowei:

Happy to answer your question. Since this year, according to the arrangement of the State Council, SAMR's work with relevant departments to promote one-stop government services has been with three services frequently encountered by residents and involving various departments. The three services are business information changes, business deregistration and opening a restaurant. 

What are one-stop government services? Previously, what seemed like a single matter to enterprises and residents actually involved multiple departments, requiring applicants to navigate various procedures step by step, which led to repeated visits to departments. Each department designed its own rules, with some departments requiring the completion of procedures in other departments before the applicants could proceed, resulting in reciprocal requirements and additional trips for applicants. This problem wasn't unheard of in the past, causing great inconvenience to residents. How do one-stop government services solve the problem? In short, it requires coordinated innovation and deep integration across the three aspects of systems, operations and technology.

First is system innovation. We need to shift from management rules that were designed primarily for government efficiency to rules that prioritize convenience for the public. For instance, we should reduce or eliminate the number of required documents wherever possible, so that applicants only need to visit one department.

Second is business process innovation. The handling processes should move from a sequential approach where one step follows another to a parallel approach. For example, with items that involve various departments, tasks are responded to, linked, circulated and handled through the coordination of these departments. This will make things much more convenient for enterprises.

Third is technological innovation. Online government services should evolve from simple passive reception to diversified scenario services based on the needs of the public. To this end, we have promoted interconnectivity across regions, departments and administrative levels. By leveraging digital technology, we have created an accessible, smart and convenient online government service system, where the public can complete their tasks entirely online.

Our innovative reforms in three key areas have yielded significant results, as evidenced by the following data. For enterprise information changes, we reduced procedures from seven to one, eliminated the need for 13 documents, and cut approval time by six working days. For enterprise deregistration, we reduced the number of procedures from 10 to four. For ordinary deregistration, we cut processing time from a minimum of 70 days to just 46 days, including a statutory notice period of 45 days, which is unlikely to be shortened or skipped because the legitimate rights and interests of creditors and other stakeholders need protection. For opening catering businesses, we reduced processing time from 37 to 15 working days and eliminated 14 previously required documents. These improvements demonstrate that our reforms have streamlined administrative procedures for enterprises and individuals, cutting time and costs while optimizing the whole process. As a result, we are now more confident in better addressing public concerns by upholding the spirit of reform and implementing related measures.

Looking ahead, the SAMR will follow the unified arrangements of the State Council, continue to deepen reform in one-stop government services to achieve new outcomes and improve the quality and efficiency of government services to benefit both enterprises and individuals. Thank you.

Cover News:

The resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasizes the need to enhance the binding force of fair competition review and to take stronger action against monopolies and unfair competition. What work has been done by the SAMR in this regard? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

My colleague Mr. Zhou will answer this question. 

Zhou Zhigao:

Fair competition is the cornerstone of a market economy and provides important support for high-quality development. In recent years, the SAMR has focused on high-quality development as our top priority. We have consistently worked to regulate market competition, ensuring fair competition and maintaining market order. Our work has mainly been in three aspects:

First, we have deepened anti-monopoly regulation and enforcement in key areas. Over the past two years, we have carried out special anti-monopoly enforcement actions in sectors related to people's well-being, enhancing regulation and enforcement in the fields of medicine, building materials, automobiles, and utilities. Since 2022, we have investigated and dealt with 60 cases involving monopoly agreements and abuses of dominant market positions. These actions have resulted in forfeitures exceeding 2.5 billion yuan, contributing to a steady improvement in market competition order. Meanwhile, we deepened regular anti-monopoly regulation in the digital economy and other areas. We unconditionally approved 48 notifications of platform operator concentrations in accordance with the law. We have fully leveraged major cases as cautionary examples to encourage business operators to sign industry-specific self-discipline pacts, issued warnings against monopolistic practices as per the law, urged and guided enterprises involved in various cases to restructure and meet compliance requirements, aiming to continuously optimize order across multiple industries.

Second, we have made efforts to conduct anti-monopoly reviews of cases of operator concentration. Since 2022, we have investigated and closed more than 1,900 such cases, conditionally approved 10, including Simcere's acquisition of Tobishi and Wanhua Chemical's acquisition of Yantai Juli Fine Chemical, and legally lifted the restrictive conditions over the case of Marubeni Corporation buying the entire stake of Gavilon Holdings, boosting enterprises' vitality in investment and mergers. Meanwhile, we reviewed simple cases and other cases separately, authorized market regulation departments in Beijing and four other provincial-level regions to conduct anti-monopoly reviews of some simple cases of operator concentration, and launched online systems to review these cases, thus improving the quality and efficiency of case reviews.

Third, we have supported and guided operators to enhance anti-monopoly compliance. This April, the Anti-Monopoly and Anti-Unfair Competition Commission of the State Council revised and issued anti-monopoly compliance guidance for operators, detailing specific monopoly-related compliance risks, and established an incentive system for anti-monopoly compliance. Meanwhile, we released anti-monopoly compliance guidance for operator concentration and hosted a series of lectures on anti-monopoly compliance, aiming to support and guide operators in enhancing compliance management. We are intensifying efforts to establish national standards for fair competition compliance management among operators. We aim to create a collaborative governance model combining voluntary enterprise compliance, effective government guidance, and widespread public support.

As you just mentioned, the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee laid out explicit requirements for intensifying anti-monopoly measures. Moving forward, the SAMR will continue to enhance and refine its supervision and enforcement of these measures. Our goal is to better maintain market order, address market failures and ensure an environment for fair competition that bolsters the internal driving forces and creativity of the whole of society. By championing fair competition, we aim to promote high-quality development yielding even more substantial outcomes. Thank you.

CCTV:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee emphasized there will be no irresolution about encouraging, supporting, and guiding non-public sector development. Self-employed individuals are a vital component of this sector. How can the SAMR further promote the development of these individuals and enable them to thrive and contribute more significantly? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

Thank you for your interest in and concern for this group. As of the end of this June, the country had 125 million individuals registered as self-employed, accounting for 66.9% of all business entities. This significant number highlights their active role in stabilizing employment, fostering development and delivering real benefits to the people.

As the supportive "parental home" to these businesses, the market regulatory body will fully leverage their close ties with them. In collaboration with relevant departments, we aim to boost their internal drive and innovative potential through adopting a combination of measures, boosting high-quality development.

Our commitment includes improving mechanisms and measures. Currently, we are conducting research and working out a regulation to promote development and standardize registration management of self-employed individuals. This regulation will specify key initiatives for market regulators to boost the development of these individuals, effectively guiding registration authorities at various levels. We aim to address pivotal challenges such as the transition from individuals to corporate entities, succession of management rights and market exit strategies, thereby facilitating sustainable growth for these businesses.

We will continue strengthening our efforts in promoting the implementation of policies. We are advancing precise and tiered support for individual businesses categorized into three development stages: subsistence, growth and advanced development. This approach provides tailored assistance measures that meet the unique needs of each stage. Additionally, initiatives to recognize and cultivate renowned, distinctive, high-quality or emerging individual businesses are underway, which are expected to set industrial benchmarks and elevate sector standards comprehensively. By the end of this year, we plan to consolidate categorized data to establish a comprehensive national directory of self-employed individuals, ensuring clarity and precision in support initiatives.

We will continue strengthening our efforts in innovating service measures. This September, the SAMR, together with 13 other departments, will host the third National Month of Service for Individual Business Owners, under the theme of "Categorized Assistance, Energizing Vitality, Serving Development." This event will include 11 activities focusing on six themes from promotional training to employment matchmaking, boosting consumer convenience and financial support tailored to ensure the policy implementation and elevate service standards. We have also established a nationwide network for the development of individual businesses, designed to align resources from local governments, industry associations, internet platforms and financial institutions and meet the needs of individual businesses in terms of policy consultation, processing operation permit and business license, financial and tax management, recruitment and employment, and skill training. This network aims to facilitate a supportive ecosystem offering comprehensive, market-oriented, regular services tailored to the nuanced needs of this vibrant sector.

21st Century Business Herald:

Quality infrastructure is referred to as "the foundation of the foundation" and is an important technological provision for promoting high-quality development. What work has been done by the SAMR to strengthen the construction of quality infrastructure? How about progress?

Pu Chun:

My colleague Mr. Liu will respond to these questions. 

Liu Sanjiang:

Building high-level quality infrastructure is an important arrangement made in The Outline for Improving the Overall Quality of China's Economy. Here, I would like to briefly introduce the progress that the administration of market regulation has made in building high-level quality infrastructure.

In terms of optimizing management, we have been committed to building an efficient and authoritative national quality infrastructure management system. We have optimized the dual structure of government standards and market standards by advancing the reform and innovation of the standardized management, with a focus on stimulating the vitality of the market to formulate standards independently. Data shows that the total number of social organization standards increased by 45.3% from 2022 to 2023. With regard to the reform on measurement systems, we have launched pilot reforms to diversify measurement instrument certification, improving the management mode of national measurement technical specifications and advancing the construction of a modern and advanced national measurement system. At the same time, we have improved the quality certification management system, deepened the market-oriented reform of inspection and testing institutions, and strengthened industry supervision. As of the end of 2023, there are over 34,000 qualified private inspection and testing institutions in China. Over the decade, the proportion of private inspection and testing institutions in the total number of institutions has doubled, accounting for 63.47% of the total number of institutions in the industry.

In terms of capacity building, China's internationally recognized calibration and measurement capabilities have reached 1,879, ranking among the top in the world. We have established 202 national measurement benchmarks and issued 2,056 national measurement technical specifications. At present, we have issued more than 45,000 national standards and built a new standard system with Chinese characteristics, realizing the full coverage of primary, secondary and tertiary industries and social undertakings. The conversion rate of international standards has surpassed 83%. Concerning certification and accreditation of inspection and testing, China has led the world in the number of authorized certificates and certified organizations for many years. There are 17,870 accredited conformity assessment bodies and more than 54,000 qualified inspection and testing institutions, with an annual revenue of over 470 billion yuan, accounting for about 25% of the world's total. China has become the most dynamic and efficient market in the world. In addition, we have organized and carried out more than 200 inspection and testing capability verification and interlaboratory comparisons in various fields every year, continuously verifying and improving the technical capabilities of inspection and testing institutions.

In terms of improving service efficiency, we have carried out a number of actions for quality infrastructure assistance, such as the program on providing measurement services for small and medium-sized enterprises, a special action on benchmarking and compliance, and the action on certification and enhancement of quality management system for micro and small businesses, so as to promote the continuous release of service efficiency for quality infrastructure in different fields and industries. Among them, the action on certification and enhancement of quality management system for micro and small businesses has provided 32 billion yuan of financial credit support, such as loans for certified micro and small businesses, and nearly 40 million yuan of certification fees have been reduced and exempted. In particular, the administration for market regulation has also been promoting the "one-stop" services of quality infrastructure and has established 1,450 service stations nationwide. A number of typical service models that can be replicated and promoted have emerged, which have played an important role in strengthening the competitiveness of micro and small businesses as well as promoting the high-quality development of regions and industries.

Next, we will continue to promote the upgrading of quality infrastructure and improve its efficiency, carry out monitoring and comprehensive evaluation of the operation of quality infrastructure, innovate the integrated and collaborative model of quality infrastructure and continue to enhance the development of "one-stop" services for quality infrastructure, so as to provide more solid and strong support on quality to promote high-quality development. Thank you.

Hongxing News:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed to build a unified national market, which would require breaking up various secluded small markets and their internal circulation. What measures have been adopted by the administration for market regulation to break up local protectionism and market segmentation? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

My colleague, Mr. Zhou, will answer this question.

Zhou Zhigao:

Thank you for your question. Just as you mentioned, breaking up local protectionism and market segmentation is of great significance to accelerate the construction of a unified national market. In recent years, the administration for market regulation has addressed both the symptoms and root causes, and has attached equal importance to efforts in both establishing new systems and abolishing old ones, working resolutely to break various forms of local protectionism and market segmentation with positive progress being achieved.

First, we have improved the mechanisms for fair competition with higher standards and have consolidated the foundational rules of law for building a unified national market. Building a unified national market requires comprehensive and unified mechanisms for fair competition. In June 2022, China completed the first amendment to the Anti-Monopoly Law after 15 years since its introduction, establishing a foundational role for competition policies from the legal perspective. In January this year, the State Council revised and raised the declaration thresholds for concentration of undertakings, facilitating investment, mergers and acquisitions of enterprises. On Aug. 1, the Regulations for Fair Competition Reviews officially came into effect and put forward specific requirements with 19 prohibitions from four aspects, preventing the introduction of policies and measures that would exclude or impede competition. The formulation and revision of these laws and regulations has laid a solid institutional groundwork for eliminating local protectionism and speeding up the construction of a unified national market.

Second, we further enhanced supervision and law enforcement, regulating improper administrative interventions in market competition. Since 2022, we have focused on public utilities and other key fields and strengthened law enforcement to prevent and stop the abuse of administrative power that excludes and stifles competition. So far, we've investigated and resolved 122 cases of administrative monopolies. In addition, we began reviewing and abolishing policies and measures that hinder the development of a unified national market and fair competition. We've fully implemented a fair competition review system to ensure institutions serve as a rigid constraint. We addressed numerous improper actions that restricted trade, impeded the free flow of commodities and factors of production, or excluded and restricted non-local businesses, aiming to eradicate closed "small markets" and fragmented "minor cycles."

Third, we bolstered public support for fair competition, encouraging all stakeholders to safeguard and promote it. Since 2022, we have organized an annual publicity week for China's fair competition policies with the theme "Unified National Market, Fair Competition for the Future." We have published annual reports on anti-monopoly law enforcement and carried out publicity activities to introduce fair competition laws and policies to government organs, Party schools, and enterprises. We've also intensified publicity and training efforts, vigorously promoting a culture of fair competition. I'd like to inform all our media friends that this year's publicity week for fair competition policies will kick off in September, and we welcome your support.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made important deployments on building a unified national market. It proposed that we enhance the binding force of fair competition review, and review and abolish regulations and practices that impede the development of a unified national market and fair competition. Moving forward, the SAMR will thoroughly implement the guiding principles of the session and enhance the intensity and effectiveness of regulating improper administrative interventions in market competition, aiming to create a fairer and more vigorous environment for all business entities. Thank you.

Xinhua News Agency:

A series of trade-in policies have been introduced since the beginning of this year. The SAMR, alongside six other departments, also rolled out specific measures to facilitate and encourage equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins. Could you share the progress made on these efforts? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

Thanks for your question. To implement the Action Plan for Promoting Large-scale Equipment Renewals and Trade-ins of Consumer Goods released by the State Council, the SAMR and six other departments have issued specific measures to encourage equipment renewals and consumer goods trade-ins by enhancing standards. We aim to develop or revise 294 key national standards by the end of 2025, with 129 slated for completion in 2024 and 165 in 2025. Through the development and implementation of these standards, coupled with policy support, we will facilitate the renewal of equipment and consumer goods trade-ins.

Since the launch of the standards-upgrading campaign, the SAMR has closely coordinated with relevant departments of the State Council to establish detailed working records, optimize processes, schedule work regularly, and assess and report progress. This approach has connected all stages of standards setting and accelerated the formulation and implementation of standards. At present, all 294 key national standards have been approved, with 55 already released, encompassing energy consumption, energy efficiency, pollutant emissions, production safety, electric vehicles, household appliances, household goods, civilian drones and other fields, playing a key role in promoting equipment upgrades and trade-ins of consumer goods. For example, in terms of energy consumption and efficiency, we introduced mandatory energy efficiency standards for power transformers, chiller units, and small- and medium-sized cold storage facilities. We also introduced mandatory energy consumption quota standards for coal-to-olefin, coal-to-natural gas and coal-to-oil business, as well as refining and chemical industries. The implementation of these standards, supported by relevant policies, helps drive technological transformation and equipment upgrades in enterprises.

High standards are the cornerstone of high-quality development, just as a solid foundation is essential for skyscrapers. The SAMR will continue to thoroughly implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We will adapt to the requirements of high-quality development by accelerating the implementation of our standards improvement initiative, continuously enhancing the national standards system, optimizing the standard supply structure, and elevating the overall quality of standards. For key products affecting people's safety, we will expedite the formulation and revision of mandatory national standards, strengthen their implementation and application, enhance the guiding role of standards, and maximize standardization efficiency. Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

The 2024 government work report proposes resolutely investigating and dealing with the imposition of arbitrary charges, fines and quotas. What measures is the SAMR implementing to curb arbitrary charges on enterprises? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

I'll invite Mr. Wang Guowei to answer this question.

Wang Guowei:

Arbitrary charges on enterprises increase their costs and undermine the business environment. Even if it's an isolated occurrence, it can substantially erode businesses' confidence in the economic climate. This conduct is unacceptable, and we must implement a stringent zero-tolerance policy. To address this issue, the SAMR has implemented directives from the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, launching a special campaign against irregular charges affecting businesses. To identify and resolve problems to the greatest extent possible, we have focused on strengthening four key measures:

First, we are focusing on key fee-charging entities. Regarding behaviors involving providing services or selling goods to businesses and collecting fees, four types of entities are more likely to engage in improper charging. First, administrative bodies, as well as public institutions and social organizations authorized by laws and regulations to perform public affairs management functions. Second, social organizations and public institutions entrusted by the government to undertake tasks and provide services that fulfill official responsibilities. Third, industry associations and chambers of commerce with significant industry influence. Fourth, business entities with advantageous positions in specific fields and market transactions. We will pay particular attention to and conduct thorough inspections of them.

Second, we are highlighting key industries. We'll focus on problems reported by government departments and affiliated units, industry associations, financial institutions, natural gas networks, and water supply companies, as well as issues raised by technology innovation and manufacturing enterprises. The aim is to help the real economy reduce external costs and increase internal momentum.

Third, we are investigating key illegal activities. In this campaign, we've investigated and dealt with relevant illegal practices in accordance with the law. These include unauthorized charges by administrative approval intermediaries, industry associations leveraging administrative power for improper fees, failure of administrative licensing departments and financial institutions to implement fee reduction policies, and natural gas networks and water supply companies not adhering to government pricing. This demonstrates our commitment to tackling the challenges faced by businesses.

Fourth, we are optimizing law enforcement inspection methods. To improve governance quality and effectiveness, this year, we organized cross-regional inspections in different locations and conducted key spot checks with national-level teams. We also implemented measures such as gathering business feedback and reviewing enforcement case files to ensure the timely detection and resolution of illegal activities.

The special rectification action has achieved positive results. Here are some figures: So far, a total of 44,800 units have been inspected, 1,253 cases have been filed, and 393 million yuan in unwarranted charges have been refunded.

Next, we will further smooth the channels for uncovering illegal and non-compliant activities, significantly improve our regulatory enforcement capabilities, and ensure the effective supervision and implementation of the Compliance Guidelines for the Charging Practices of Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce. Additionally, we will also accelerate the introduction of the Measures for Handling Illegal and Non-compliant Charging Practices Involving Enterprises. By relying on the authority of the rule of law, we aim to systematically address the issue of arbitrary charges on enterprises, effectively reduce unreasonable costs and play a stronger protective role in the healthy development of enterprises. Thank you.

Yicai:

Regarding efforts to strengthen quality support and standard leadership, the SAMR is currently carrying out initiatives to strengthen quality in enterprises, across industrial chains and in counties. How is this work progressing? And what will the focus be in the next phase? Thank you.

Pu Chun:

I would like to invite my colleague, Mr. Liu Sanjiang, to answer this question.

Liu Sanjiang:

Thank you for your interest in the three key initiatives related to quality. Earlier this year, the SAMR deployed three key initiatives: strengthening quality in enterprises, across industrial chains and in counties. These initiatives aim to promote high-quality development across points, lines and sectors, and so far, the overall progress has been smooth. In terms of strengthening quality across industrial chains, we are primarily focusing on the quality improvement needs of key industrial chains such as integrated circuits, artificial intelligence, quantum information technologies and new energy vehicles. We have established 146 key tasks for breakthroughs, bringing together a large number of research institutions, top research universities and leading enterprises to collaborate on these challenges. This has strengthened quality support for key industrial chains, and we have achieved phased results. As for enhancing quality in enterprises and counties, work plans and indicator systems have been developed and are being gradually rolled out nationwide. Moving forward, we will focus on the following areas:

In terms of strengthening quality in enterprises, we will cultivate a group of leading enterprises that will contribute to building China into a "manufacturer of quality," thereby better leveraging quality to promote the growth and strengthening of enterprises. Specific measures include: formulating and issuing cultivation guidelines, establishing clear orientation guidance, and, while directing enterprises on "what to do," emphasizing guidance on "how to do it." We plan to organize an on-site experience exchange and promotion conference for leading enterprises to share their quality improvement experiences. We will guide various regions to base their actions on actual industrial development conditions, promote extensive exchanges of benchmark experiences in quality, and encourage more enterprises to learn from advanced examples and align with benchmarks. Our goal is to create a positive atmosphere for quality improvement through "comparing, learning, catching up, assisting and surpassing," thereby gathering strong momentum for building China into a manufacturer of quality.

In terms of strengthening quality in industry chains, we will continue to promote major landmark projects to better leverage the role of quality infrastructure in supporting the creation of complete industrial ecosystems and strengthening industrial chains. To address the weak links and urgent needs for core components, testing methods and other key technical standards essential for the development of key industries, we will accelerate the development of a batch of national standards and promote the establishment of a set of international standards. To address the issue of non-uniform measuring instruments in key industries, we will establish new methods for the transmission and traceability of measurement values and develop a batch of measurement technical specifications and measurement standard devices. To address the notable issues of missing testing methods and insufficient inspection capabilities for key products and important equipment, such as complete industrial robots and their core components, we will expedite the development of urgently needed inspection and testing methods. Regarding the imperfect certification and accreditation system for key industries, such as ultra-fast charging for electric vehicles, we will establish a set of quality evaluation and certification systems to help enhance the quality linkages of industrial and supply chains. Later this month, we will hold a national on-site experience exchange and promotion conference on strengthening quality in industrial chains in Guangzhou, which we welcome you all to attend.

In terms of building strong counties with quality, we will focus on cultivating a group of counties, districts and towns with strong qualities to better leverage quality in promoting sustainable urban development. This includes strengthening categorized development and construction guidance, and supporting various local quality innovation practices. We will establish a repository for counties (districts, towns) with strong qualities and enhance longitudinal monitoring and cross-comparison of quality conditions. We will hold experience exchange meetings for counties with strong qualities to share and promote cutting-edge experiences and distinctive practices, striving to create new regional advantages in quality development. That's all for my introduction, thank you.

Xing Huina:

The last question, please.

Economic Daily:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed promoting the development of the platform economy and improving its routine regulation system. Could the SAMR share its thoughts on this?

Pu Chun:

I'll take this question. Now, internet platforms are integral to our work and daily lives. Ensuring their standardized and healthy continuous development is a widespread concern in society. The market supervision department attaches great importance to this field. From the strategic perspective of building new national competitive advantages, we emphasize both development and regulation. We actively support platform enterprises playing a crucial role in promoting innovation, increasing employment as well as international competition.

This year, we have organized six compliance promotion meetings for platform enterprises, focusing on areas such as regulating the "618" promotion activities and ensuring the safety of electric bicycles. We've established a routine communication mechanism with platform enterprises. We reinforced the responsibility of platform enterprises through compliance management and consistently conducted online market supervision actions to foster development and ensure safety, especially issuing compliance reminders during critical periods to maintain a regulated and orderly market environment within the platform economy. This helps secure a foundation for the high-quality growth of various business entities.

In terms of standardization, we've guided the release of the Big Data Standardization White Paper (2023 Edition), introduced 35 national standards that are critical to the flow of data and 22 national standards for e-commerce quality supervision. We have continued to formulate and improve the standards for e-commerce, cross-border e-commerce and other key areas. We have advanced standards related to e-commerce quality traceability and development evaluation. As the secretariat of the ISO Technical Committee on Transaction Assurance in E-commerce, we have actively engaged with international counterparts to build a global framework for e-commerce regulations. By promoting the integration and alignment of domestic and international e-commerce standards, we strived to facilitate the high-quality development of the platform economy.

Moreover, we have been building and enhancing the quality certification system in the field of data, intensifying our certification efforts in areas such as mobile internet applications, data security management and personal information protection, with over 300 certificates issued. We have promoted a comprehensive, multi-level mechanism for accrediting applications in quality certification, continuously enhancing the system's effectiveness and credibility, as well as bolstering data security awareness and personal information protection capabilities among platform enterprises.

In terms of regulatory measures, we have improved the smart regulatory rules in the field of market supervision and have initially formed a smart regulatory system and model that enables timely perception, rapid response, systematic supervision, proactive service and integrated governance. We are accelerating the development of the national online transaction supervision platform, enhancing our ability to provide early warnings and emergency response to major risks in the platform economy sector, and thus ensuring its healthy development.

That's all for my briefing. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

That concludes today's press conference. Thank you to our speakers and all the reporters for participating. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxian, Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, Liu Jianing, Ma Yujia, Guo Yiming, Liu Sitong, Xu Kailin, Lin Liyao, Yuan Fang, Yan Xiaoqing, Liu Qiang, Wang Yanfang, Huang Shan, Zhou Jing, Liao Jiaxin, Li Huiru, Zhang Rui, Zhang Junmian, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Ms. Li Yongjie, deputy China international trade representative (vice-ministerial rank) of the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM)

Mr. Xu Xingfeng, director general of the Department of Market Operation and Consumption Promotion of MOFCOM

Mr. Li Xingqian, director general of the Department of Foreign Trade of MOFCOM

Mr. Zhu Bing, director general of the Department of Foreign Investment Administration of MOFCOM

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Aug. 2, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited Ms. Li Yongjie, deputy China international trade representative (vice-ministerial rank) of the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), to brief you on relevant developments and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Xu Xingfeng, director general of the Department of Market Operation and Consumption Promotion of MOFCOM; Mr. Li Xingqian, director general of the Department of Foreign Trade of MOFCOM; and Mr. Zhu Bing, director general of the Department of Foreign Investment Administration of MOFCOM. 

Now, I'll give the floor to Ms. Li for her introduction. 

Li Yongjie:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I'd like to express my gratitude to you for your interest in and support for the commerce-related work. It's a pleasure to meet you here and speak with you on the high-quality development of commerce. 

The report to the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) points out that "to build a modern socialist country in all respects, we must, first and foremost, pursue high-quality development." MOFCOM has firmly implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, and promoted the high-quality development of commerce. Our efforts have contributed to creating a new development pattern and advancing Chinese modernization through the development of commerce. This is mainly reflected in four aspects:

First, new progress has been secured in consumer spending. We have focused on enhancing the fundamental role of consumption in promoting economic development. During this process, we have introduced consumer goods trade-in programs and policies to boost automobile and home furnishing consumption, as well as to promote high-quality development of the catering industry. We have also launched the "Consumption Boosting Year" and "Consumption Promotion Year" series of activities. Additionally, improvement of urban and rural distribution facilities has been advanced. In 2023, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 47.1 trillion yuan (about $6.6 trillion), setting a new record.

Second, foreign trade has gained new momentum. We have worked to stabilize the volume of foreign trade and improve its structure, rolled out the "1+N" policy package, and implemented a series of polices and measures aimed at promoting trade and assisting enterprises. Major events such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE), Canton Fair, China International Fair for Trade in Services, and Global Digital Trade Expo were successfully held. We have promoted the innovative development of trade in services and implemented a negative list for cross-border trade in services. In 2023, China maintained its position as the world's largest trader, securing rapid advancements in new growth drivers such as the "new trio" (electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products) and cross-border e-commerce.

Third, new strides have been made in utilizing foreign investment. We have intensified efforts to attract and utilize foreign investment by introducing policies to refine the foreign investment environment and step-up efforts to attract more investment. We have actively cultivated the "Invest in China" brand and upgraded the foreign enterprise roundtables system. Moreover, we have proactively aligned with high-standard international economic and trade rules and piloted such alignment in free trade zones and ports, to develop new pacesetters for opening up.

Fourth, new breakthroughs have been achieved in international economic and trade cooperation. We have focused on promoting high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and successfully hosted the Thematic Forum on Trade Connectivity of the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. At the thematic forum, a series of economic and trade cooperation outcomes were achieved and the Initiative on International Trade and Economic Cooperation Framework for Digital Economy and Green Development was launched. China has involved itself fully in the reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and facilitated practical outcomes at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference. We have promoted the entry into full effect of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), worked toward joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA), and actively engaged in free trade agreement negotiations.

This year, business operations have been steady while making progress. New achievements have been made in high-quality development, contributing to national economic growth.

Consumption has maintained steady growth, with total retail sales of consumer goods reaching 23.6 trillion yuan in the first half of the year, up by 3.7%. The consumer goods trade-in policies are gradually taking effect, with over 450,000 applications for car scrapping and renewal subsidies submitted nationwide as of 9 a.m. today. The retail sales of new energy passenger vehicles grew by 33.1% in the first half of the year. Services consumption grew rapidly, with retail sales of services and catering revenue increasing by 7.5% and 7.9%, respectively, in the first half of the year. 

The volume of foreign trade has steadily increased and its quality has improved. In the first half of the year, imports and exports of goods totaled 21.2 trillion yuan, an increase of 6.1%; and imports and exports of services reached 3.6 trillion yuan, up by 14%. The contribution of goods and services imports and exports to economic growth reached 13.9%. The cultivation of new foreign trade growth drivers has accelerated, with cross-border e-commerce exports maintaining rapid growth and exports of competitive products such as ships and vehicles growing quickly in the first half of the year. According to a survey of 16,000 key foreign trade and foreign-invested enterprises conducted by MOFCOM, over 70% of enterprises expect export growth this year.

The "Invest in China" brand has become more attractive. A total of 17 major "Invest in China" events have been organized, widely promoting investment opportunities in China, and 12 foreign enterprises roundtables have been held. It has continuously become easier for foreign nationals to live and work in China. As the business environment has constantly been improved, 27,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in China in the first half of this year, with utilized foreign investment reaching 498.9 billion yuan. The structure of foreign investment attracted has been continuously refined, with the proportion of investment in high-tech manufacturing increasing by 2.4 percentage points compared to the same period last year.

Foreign investment and cooperation have grown rapidly. In the first half of the year, non-financial outbound direct investment reached 516 billion yuan, an increase of 19.5%. The turnover of overseas contracted projects amounted to 513.3 billion yuan, up by 4.7%.

The recently concluded third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made systematic plans for further deepening reform comprehensively. MOFCOM will thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of the session, promote the establishment of a unified national market, and steadily expand institutional opening up. We will also deepen the foreign trade structural reform, further reform the management systems for inward and outward investment, improve planning for regional opening up, and refine the mechanisms for high-quality cooperation under the BRI. Through these efforts, we aim to make substantial achievements in commerce reform and development, thus making new contributions to advancing Chinese modernization.

Next, my colleagues and I are happy to answer your questions. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open to questions. Please identify your news agency before asking your questions.

Beijing Youth Daily:

Recently released data shows China's total import and export value of goods exceeded 21 trillion yuan in the first half of the year, up 6.1% year on year. This scale set a new record for the same period. How does MOFCOM view foreign trade performance in the first half of the year, and what are its evaluations and views on future foreign trade trends? Thank you.

Li Yongjie:

Thank you for your question. In the first half of this year, foreign trade operations have shown steady progress. Our goods trade has demonstrated strong resilience and market vitality, characterized by increased volume, improved quality and a stable market share.

From a quantity perspective, we've maintained scale. Here are some numbers: First, in the first half of the year, the total import and export value of goods reached 21.2 trillion yuan, a record high for the same period, up 6.1% year on year. The daily average import and export value was 116.31 billion yuan, which is over 40% higher than in the same period in 2019. Net export of goods and services contributed 0.7 percentage point to GDP growth. Second, export and import quantities increased by 12.7% and 3.1%, respectively, indicating active cross-border movement of goods. Foreign trade cargo throughput at national ports rose 8.8% in the first half of the year. Third, the number of foreign trade entities involved in exports and imports increased to 586,000, up 8.7% year on year, adding 47,000 entities, further boosting corporate vitality.

From the perspective of quality, the structure continues to be optimized. First, trade cooperation with emerging markets has deepened, with the proportion of our imports and exports with these markets rising to 64.9%. At the 135th Canton Fair, buyer attendance from Belt and Road partner countries increased by 25%, and transactions were also very active. Second, the export products have been continuously improved, with electromechanical products now comprising 58.9% of exports. High-tech and high-value-added products maintained rapid growth, with automobile and ship exports increasing by 22.2% and 91.1%, respectively. Electronic information products steadily recovered, with exports of integrated circuits and household appliances growing by 25.6% and 18.3%, respectively. Third, new drivers of foreign trade show positive progress. According to preliminary estimates by the General Administration of Customs, cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan in the first half of the year, up 10.5%, involving over 120,000 business entities. We actively pursued international cooperation on trade digitalization and sustainability. We've reached agreements on the Initiative on International Trade and Economic Cooperation Framework for Digital Economy and Green Development with 39 countries. The market for green and low-carbon products is vast, with new energy vehicles exported to over 170 countries and regions. Fourth, the international market share remained stable with some growth. In the first quarter, the export international market share was 13.6%, a 0.2 percentage point increase year on year. China continued to maintain its position as the world's largest goods trading nation. Preliminary estimates indicate that the share stabilized at around 14% in the first half of the year.

Currently, the external environment's complexity and severity are increasing. We must fully recognize the serious difficulties and challenges in foreign trade. Several international organizations report that the global trade in goods has shown a moderate recovery since early this year. However, geopolitical tensions, increasing trade restrictions and intensified national industrial policy competition may have significant negative impacts. The WTO's latest monitoring shows a significant increase in members' import restrictions. Measures taking effect in 2024 are expected to affect $2.3 trillion worth of imports, 9.7% of global imports — the highest level since 2020.

Maintaining stable growth in both the quality and volume of foreign trade this year will require continued efforts in the second half. We will make good use of various multilateral and bilateral mechanisms to help businesses counter unreasonable trade restrictions, support enterprises in exploring international markets through platforms like the Canton Fair, and work to create a stable and predictable trade policy environment. Additionally, we will intensify efforts to cultivate new drivers of foreign trade and enhance the overall competitiveness of foreign trade. At the same time, we will continue to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with trade partners to jointly maintain the stability and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

In the first half of this year, China's cross-border e-commerce maintained steady growth and exhibited positive development momentum. What measures will the MOFCOM implement to further promote the development of cross-border e-commerce?

Li Yongjie:

I will invite Mr. Li to answer this question.

Li Xingqian:

Thank you for your interest in cross-border e-commerce development. In the first half of the year, China's cross-border e-commerce imports and exports maintained stable growth. The growth rate reached 10.5%, 4.4 percentage points higher than overall national foreign trade growth. From a market perspective, our trade with countries like France, Belgium, Spain and Malaysia has grown rapidly. Consumer goods are the main export products, and some high-value-added products show strong growth momentum. For example, exports of office equipment increased by 50.7%, and camera exports grew by 30.7%. Imported goods from overseas are popular among domestic consumers, with food imports increasing by 22.8%, luggage imports growing by 70.8% and wine imports rising by 55.4%. Geographically, coastal regions such as Guangdong and Zhejiang are the main drivers of cross-border e-commerce trade, accounting for nearly 90% of the national total. According to a recent survey we conducted, nearly 80% of cross-border e-commerce enterprises are optimistic about growth prospects in the second half of the year.

Next, we will implement the plans from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, continue to adhere to the principle of encouraging innovation and conducting regulation in a tolerant and prudent way, and focus on doing a good job in two aspects:

On the one hand, we will optimize the service ecology. We will implement special policies for cross-border e-commerce, support the development of cross-border e-commerce to empower industrial belts as well as guide local governments to cultivate a number of development models. We will promote through on-site meetings between comprehensive pilot zones the exchange of experience with cross-border e-commerce. We will support the cultivation of cross-border e-commerce brands. At the same time, we will also give full play to the role of local industry organizations, improve the level of industry self-regulation as well as guide cross-border e-commerce companies to operate within compliance, to compete in an orderly manner and to actively fulfill their social responsibilities. In the second half of the year, we will also hold the 136th Canton Fair, which is also known as the "Autumn Fair." At the Canton Fair, we will continue to set up a special exhibition area for cross-border e-commerce. We will encourage Chinese logistics companies to strengthen international cooperation with host country's courier delivery companies, especially to increase efforts to enhance the "last kilometer" performance of cross-border e-commerce companies.

On the other hand, we will deepen international cooperation, actively participate in international multilateral and bilateral negotiation as well as take advantage of the bilateral joint economic and trade committees and standing working groups on promoting trade cooperation as communication mechanisms to promote the experiences, practices and achievements of our cross-border e-commerce development. We should vigorously develop "Silk Road e-commerce" and support comprehensive pilot zones for cross-border e-commerce. Industries and enterprises at all levels need to actively carry out international exchanges and cooperation. We encourage cross-border e-commerce platforms to expand their categories and service functions of goods, and support the healthy development of e-commerce platforms of consumer goods mainly for C-end, as well as the innovative development of e-commerce platforms for industrial equipment, semi-finished products and parts mainly for B-end. Thank you.

Tianjin Haihe Media Group:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed to implement a strategy for upgrading pilot free trade zones and encouraged these zones to engage in pioneering and integrated explorations. How have the free trade pilot zones progressed this year? What explorations will be carried out in the next step? Thank you.

Li Yongjie:

I'll ask Mr. Zhu to answer your questions.

Zhu Bing:

"Implement the strategy for upgrading pilot free trade zones and encourage these zones to engage in pioneering and integrated explorations" -- we interpret "upgrading" and "exploration" here as further improving the construction quality of pilot free trade zones on the basis of the construction achievements of the past ten years, strengthening the function of the comprehensive experimental platform for reform and opening up, giving better play to the pioneering spirit of community-level organizations, paying more attention to the system integration of reform, and daring to brave uncharted waters and solve difficult problems, so as to accumulate new experience for comprehensively deepening reform and opening up. In September of last year, General Secretary Xi Jinping issued important instructions on deepening the construction of the pilot free trade zones (FTZs). The MOFCOM has carefully studied and implemented the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping, accelerated the implementation of strategies to upgrade FTZs and has made progress in four aspects:

First, the pilot alignments have been promoted across the board. The pilot measures for the first batch of qualified FTZs and free trade ports (FTPs) to align with high-standard international economic and trade rules that promote institutional opening up have been fully implemented, and the overall plan for the Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone to fully dovetail with high-standard international economic and trade rules is also being accelerated. A number of projects and demonstration cases have been formed for importing remanufactured products in key industries and for supporting overseas personnel to provide professional services.

Second, the opening up of services has been steadily expanded. We have issued and implemented a negative list of cross-border trade in services in the FTZs, and have cooperated with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology to expand foreign investment access in the telecommunications sector within the Shanghai Pilot FTZ and other regions, continuously improving the opening up of the service sector.

Third, breakthroughs have been made in key areas. We have worked with the Cyberspace Administration of China and other departments to support pilot free trade zones in formulating a negative list for cross-border data flows under the framework of the national data classification and hierarchical protection system. Currently, pilot FTZs in Tianjin, Shanghai and other areas are actively promoting relevant explorations.

Fourth, the benefits of innovation have been continuously released. We have released and promoted 47 institutional achievements with innovation as well as have promoted 349 items at the national level, effectively utilizing the demonstration and leading role of the comprehensive experimental platform for reform and opening up. In the first half of 2024, the actual use of foreign capital in the 22 pilot FTZs reached 103.96 billion yuan, and the total value of imports and exports reached 4.1 trillion yuan. Covering less than 0.4% of China's total land area, the 22 pilot FTZs attracted 20.8% of the country's total foreign investments and contributed 19.5% to national imports and exports.

Next, the MOFCOM will implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, promote pilot FTZs to carry out preliminary trials and to integrate exploration in a wider and deeper range of areas, and contribute to further deepening reform comprehensively as well as advancing Chinese modernization.

First, we will strengthen overall planning and system integration, enhancing the function of the comprehensive experimental platform for reform and opening up. We will further develop reform in a systematic, holistic and coordinated way by focusing on in-depth implementation strategies for the upgrading of pilot FTZs. At present, we are studying and formulating a comprehensive document on implementation strategies for the upgrading of pilot FTZs. We will launch a number of leading and integrated reform measures to explore more successful experiences that can be replicated and promoted for deepening reform comprehensively.

Second, we will deepen alignment with international high-standard economic and trade rules, raising the level of institutional opening up. In terms of aligning with rules, we will ensure the successful implementation, evaluation and replication of pilot projects in FTZs that seek to align with international high-standard economic and trade rules, aiming to help release policy dividends on a larger scale. At the same time, we will strengthen forward-looking research on these rules and conduct new pilot tests in areas such as property rights protection, the environment, government procurement, e-commerce and finance to achieve compatibility in rules, regulations, management and standards. Regarding the opening up of key areas, we will conduct in-depth research on further expanding the opening up of commodity, service and capital markets by relying on FTZs. We will use the two negative lists for foreign investment access and cross-border service trade as essential tools to expedite the opening up of relevant service sectors.

Third, we will strengthen integrated innovation across the entire industry chain, enhancing the development momentum of new quality productive forces. We will support FTZs to further deepen differentiated exploration, fully leveraging their advantages of a sound industrial foundation, high-level aggregation and strong innovation capabilities. We will promote innovative development throughout the entire industry chain by focusing on key areas such as bulk commodities, biomedicine, equipment manufacturing and the marine economy. We aim to achieve more institutionalized innovative outcomes in developing new quality productive forces.

That's all from me, thanks.

International Business Daily:

What new progress has China made in building a high-standard global free trade zone network in recent years? The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed improving systems and mechanisms for high-level opening up and proactively aligning with international high-standard economic and trade rules. What steps will MOFCOM take next to further expand high-level opening up? Thank you.

Li Yongjie:

Promoting the construction of a high-standard global free trade zone network is an important task for MOFCOM. In recent years, following the instructions of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, we have actively advanced relevant work and made good progress. So far, we have signed 22 free trade agreements with 29 countries and regions, and trade volumes with our free trade partners account for about one-third of China's total foreign trade volume. Our free trade partners are spread across Asia, Latin America, Africa, Europe and Oceania. In the first half of this year, we implemented three free trade agreements with Nicaragua, Ecuador and Serbia, signed an early harvest arrangement for the free trade agreement with Honduras, completed substantive negotiations on upgrading the free trade agreement with Peru, and officially started free trade agreement negotiations with El Salvador and negative list negotiations with New Zealand. The content of our free trade agreements is also continuously being enriched. For example, new contents, such as cooperation on standards and the digitization of trade documents, are gradually being included in the free trade agreements being signed or negotiated.

At the same time, free trade agreements have further helped to enhance the bilateral trade and investment. For example, since the China-Nicaragua free trade agreement took effect this year, the two countries have seen their bilateral trade volume rise 56% year on year in just half a year. Another example is the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). China's non-financial direct investment in other RCEP member countries reached $9.53 billion in the January–May period of this year, a 28% year-on-year increase.

Next, MOFCOM will resolutely implement the relevant arrangements and requirements of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and further expand the high-standard global free trade zone network.

First, we will expand its scope. We will continue to follow the CPTPP's accession procedures, further conduct bilateral consultations based on previous exchanges with all members, and advance the accession process. We will strive to conclude negotiations as soon as possible on version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, on free trade agreements with Honduras and El Salvador, and on upgrading free trade agreements with New Zealand and others. We will vigorously promote the China-Japan-South Korea FTA talks, as well as free trade cooperation with the Gulf Cooperation Council, Norway, Switzerland, Bangladesh and other countries and regions. We will expand our network of free trade agreements with receptive countries and regions, aiming to boost our trade volume with free trade partners to 40% of the county's total foreign trade by 2030.

Second, we will improve its quality. We will further open up trade in goods in newly signed free trade agreements, promote more products to be included in the zero-tariff list, advance negotiations on service trade and investment through negative lists, and further open up key areas such as telecommunications, healthcare and tourism. We will also actively incorporate into future free trade agreements high-level economic and trade rules in areas such as the digital economy, green economy, intellectual property and standards certification. We seek to build a new development pattern through high-level opening up and achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes with our free trade partners.

Third, we will increase its efficiency. We will continue to ensure high-quality implementation of all the signed free trade agreements such as the RCEP, further enhancing their utilization. We will actively launch promotional events and training to help enterprises fully leverage the preferential policies of these agreements. Such efforts aim to further promote the flow of goods, services and investments, allowing the agreements to benefit people on both sides better. Additionally, through the dividends of free trade cooperation, we aim to strengthen the cooperative ties between China and our free trade partners.

Fourth, we will promote reforms. We will further collaborate with relevant departments to actively align with high-standard economic and trade rules at the international level and in accordance with the requirements of the third plenary session of the Central Committee of the CPC, further advancing reforms in areas such as property rights protection, industrial subsidies, environmental protection, labor protection, government procurement, e-commerce and finance. At the same time, we will intensify efforts in pilot projects and promptly summarize and promote successful experiences. All these efforts aim to boost the integration and compatibility of rules, regulations, management and standards, as well as achieve a favorable situation where high-standard opening up and deep reforms can mutually support and reinforce each other. Thank you.

Cover News:

In March of this year, the MOFCOM and relevant departments jointly issued an action plan to promote consumer goods trade-ins. What results have been achieved? What further measures will be introduced in order to favor consumers with more tangible benefits? Thank you.

Li Yongjie:

Thank you for your questions. I'll invite Mr. Xu Xingfeng to answer them.

Xu Xingfeng:

First of all, thank you for your attention to consumer goods trade-ins. To promote this initiative is the decision and arrangement made by the Party Central Committee and the State Council with a focus on overall high-quality development. The MOFCOM and relevant departments have thoroughly implemented this initiative by introducing action plans and detailed rules for application of subsidies and have established an effective mechanism based on full respect for consumers' willingness, empowering them with convenience and motivation. In terms of vehicles, we have coordinated various parties and rolled out a combination of policies and measures focusing on the entire industrial chain encompassing the purchasing, driving, selling and scrapping of cars. In terms of home appliances, décor and kitchen and bathroom products, we have adopted measures to optimize recycling, making consumption more convenient, recycling more standardized and the circumstances more eco-friendly.

The journalist is interested in the results of our efforts, which can be demonstrated in two aspects. First is consumers' wide recognition. A recent survey conducted by relevant departments in over ten provinces and cities showed that more than 80% of consumers were aware of this policy and over 70% were willing to participate in it. The results are reflected in social recognition. Second is data. As the specific data just reported by Ms. Li Yongjie presents, by 9 a.m. today, we have received over 450,000 applications for vehicle scrapping and trade-in subsidies, showcasing robust growth. In the first half of this year, the recycling of scrapped vehicles increased by 27.6% year on year, and new energy passenger vehicles' retail sales have increased by 33.1%. In terms of home appliances, the retail sales of units above designated size increased by 3.1% year on year in the first half of the year, which was 2.1 percentage points higher than the same period last year. In terms of home décor and kitchen and bathroom products, the yearly growth of retail sales of furniture at units above designated size was 2.6%, indicating that the effects of the policy have been gradually emerging.

Recently, in accordance with the arrangements of the State Council, the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Finance have rolled out several measures to boost large-scale equipment renewals and consumer goods trade-ins. The efforts are ramped up with 150 billion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds to support different localities to make their own decisions and carry out consumer goods trade-ins. The subsidy standards are increased from 10,000 yuan for purchasing a new energy passenger vehicle and 7,000 yuan for purchasing a fuel passenger vehicle to 20,000 yuan and 15,000 yuan, respectively. 

In terms of home appliances, we offer subsidies for eight categories, including refrigerators, washing machines, televisions, air conditioners, computers, water heaters, household cookers and kitchen exhaust hoods. There are more detailed measures regarding home decoration and kitchen and bathroom products, providing support for old house renovation, kitchen and bathroom renovation, elder-friendly home modification and smart home solution consumption. We also support trade-ins of electronic bicycles, which is an addition. 

The journalist just asked about our plan to favor consumers with tangible benefits and further manifest the effects of the policy, which can be summarized into four keywords:

The first keyword is continuity. We have made adjustments with supportive policies by increasing the level of support and expanding the scope to cover more categories, and we should ensure continuity between previous and following policies. We will collaborate with relevant departments to promptly issue notices on further enhancing trade-ins of vehicles and home appliances, and introduce guidelines for upgrading home decoration and kitchen and bathroom products as well as implementation plans for trade-ins of electronic bicycles. The vehicle trade-in policy will also cover past cases. Those who previously received a subsidy of 10,000 yuan will be compensated an additional subsidy to match the new standard of 20,000 yuan, ensuring that early consumers do not suffer losses, which also reflects policy continuity.

The second keyword is guidance. We will encourage local governments to make their own decisions and improve their capabilities regarding trade-ins, guide them to improve supporting measures timely, and organize and implement the work effectively. We will further optimize subsidy review and fund allocations, speed up the review process, and improve service quality, to smooth the "last mile" of subsidy application and minimize the time for consumers from submitting applications to receiving subsidy funds. We will also implement measures such as facilitating sales of used cars, online cancellation of automobile registration and reverse invoicing of renewable resource recycling enterprises. These are supportive measures for promoting trade-ins, with the aim to ensure a smooth "venous circulation" in the trade-in process by continuously improving the renewable resource recycling system and making it more convenient for consumers to dispose of waste materials.

Third, publicity and promotion. To make this policy better known among the people, we hope journalists can pay more attention and be more supportive, using popular and easy to understand ways to step up this publicity and promotion at communities, enterprises, platforms, institutions and expos in order to increase the public's awareness. Moreover, we plan to step up publicity and promotion by providing trade-ins at various activities, including distinctive brand events of different regions and major expos for different industries, as well as organizing supply-demand matching activities. We will promote intelligently connected vehicles and smart home devices among other products highlighting quality and value for money to satisfy consumers' demand for trade-ins. 

Fourth, supervision and guidance. We will enhance follow-up efforts to evaluate the effectiveness of this policy by organizing comprehensive inspection for consumer product trade-ins, offering guidance for different localities and making better use of fiscal funds. The public has concerns over such trade-ins. They worry about false publicity, false price reduction and the selling of fake and low-quality products only to swindle subsidies. In view of this, we will smooth channels for filing complaints and lawfully crack down on these misconducts to create a favorable business environment. And we welcome media supervision. Let's work together to deliver good results. 

That's all I have to share. Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

My question is about consumption. This year, China launches a year-long program to stimulate consumption, and the MOC has organized and carried out a series of consumption promotion activities across the country, what measures will be taken next to spur the steady growth of consumption? Thank you.

Xu Xingfeng:

I appreciate your interest in this issue. Since the beginning of the year, the MOC has earnestly implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, boosting consumption by implementing policies and hosting activities. We have carried out a series of innovative activities to mark this year of consumption promotion, achieving remarkable results. According to Ms. Li's briefing, in the first half of the year, retail sales of consumer goods totaled 23.6 trillion yuan, up 3.7% year on year. The highlights of consumption in the first half of the year can be summarized by four terms: 

First, "steady" growth in bulk consumption. In the first half of this year, passenger car sales grew 3.3% year on year. New energy passenger vehicle retail sales grew 33.1% and accounted for 41.8% of all retail sales for passenger cars. Home appliance and furniture retail sales of businesses above designated size grew 3.1% and 2.6%, respectively, year on year. 

Second, "rapid" growth in service consumption. In the first half of this year, the retail sales of services grew 7.5% year on year, 4.3 percentage points higher than the growth rate of retail sales of goods. 

Third, "vitality" in new types of consumption. For example, in the first half of this year, online retail sales grew 9.8% year on year. The online retail sales of physical goods grew 8.8%. Online retail accounted for 25.3% of total retail sales. 

Fourth, "new" momentum in rural consumption. In the first half of this year, retail sales in rural areas reached 3.14 trillion yuan, up 4.5% year on year, 0.9 percentage point higher than the growth rate in urban areas. Per capita consumption expenditure of rural residents increased 7.6%, with the growth rate 1.5 percentage points higher than that of urban residents. 

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made arrangements for consumption related work. More recently, a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee emphasized the expansion of domestic demands with the focus on boosting consumption. The economic policies will be more focused on improving wellbeing and promoting consumption. We will thoroughly implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, upholding the three important roles of commerce related work (an important part of the domestic economic flow, an important link connecting domestic and international economic flow, and an important factor for the new development paradigm), and continuing to boost consumption. We will focus on five aspects in the second half of this year:

First, to make this year's consumption promotion activities great successes, providing the opportunity to enjoy a better life. With the aim to meet people's demand and address people's concerns, we will plan and launch serial high-quality activities. The campaign will have four features. Firstly, we plan to create four waves of consumption: one at back-to-school season, one at harvest season, one at ice and snow season, and one at family reunion season. Secondly, we insist on providing benefits for all. We will host lifestyle fairs to offer convenience to people within a 15-minute radius within urban areas, spur agricultural development through e-commerce and let urban and rural residents enjoy the harvest together. Thirdly, we will focus on intelligently networked vehicles and smart home devices as well as trendy domestic brands, driving up the volume of consumption of quality products by promoting both long-standing and newly established brands as additional growth points. Fourthly, we plan to promote consumption with different themes, such as hometown flavors, beautiful elderly life, scaling the heights and enjoying autumn scenery, fun with ice and snow and a celebration of the new year. We will provide diverse and quality products, including scenic views and gourmet food, for consumers to savor a beautiful life. 

Second, to step up efforts to promote consumer good trade-ins with the aim to stabilize bulk consumption. We have already given a briefing on this. Now, I'd like to stress that we will do a good job in hosting supply and demand matching activities, boosting unimpeded upstream and downstream industries in production, supply, and marketing. In addition, we will enhance policy alignment to truly and directly benefit the public. 

Third, to promote the high-quality development of service consumption and foster new drivers for consumption. Currently, consumers increasingly value pleasant experiences as well as mental and physical health. Boosting service consumption is an important measure to further expand and upgrade consumption. We will push the issuance of comprehensive documents to promote the high-quality development of service consumption, and wider openness in an orderly manner in the fields of telecommunications, internet, education, culture and medical care as well as encourage consumption in culture, tourism, elderly care, child care and housekeeping, with the aim to meet residents' demands for service consumption. 

Fourth, we will expand new types of consumption and nurture new consumption drivers. In the long run, we need to foster new areas of consumer spending. New technologies, industries and models have boosted emerging forms of consumption, such as digital, environmentally-friendly, and health-related consumption. These are new areas in the field of consumption. We will develop digital consumption further by implementing actions to boost it and holding promotional activities, such as "E-commerce Boosts Agriculture" initiative and "Silk Road Cloud Products" E-commerce Festival. We will continue to encourage the purchase of new energy vehicles, green intelligent home appliances, and green building materials in rural areas. Additionally, we will expand smart consumption and artificial intelligence-enhanced consumption scenarios, promoting smart devices such as intelligent home appliances, mobile phones and wearable devices. We will also promote health-related consumption and continue to carry out various activities to bring healthy consumption options into thousands of households.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has outlined plans to actively promote the debut economy. We will accelerate implementation according to this arrangement, encouraging companies to release new products, open their first stores, and hold their first shows and exhibitions. We will continue to introduce new business forms, models, services and scenarios to meet consumer demand for fashion, quality and new trends.

The final point is to optimize consumption channels and promote consumption upgrading. We need to accelerate the development of international consumer center cities, pilot the reduction of restrictive measures on consumption in these cities, implement the debut economy, and improve cities' commercial capacity. We will continue to enhance the logistics system in rural areas and further unlock the consumption potential there. In short, urban and rural areas should interact with each other. That concludes my introduction. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

Not long ago, MOFCOM announced data and information on China's use of foreign investment from January to June. This year, newly established foreign-invested enterprises in China have increased, while actual use of foreign capital has declined. How do you view the current situation of attracting foreign investment, and what tasks will you focus on next? Thank you.

Li Yongjie:

Let's invite Mr. Zhu to answer your questions. 

Zhu Bing:

Thank you for your attention to our efforts to attract and utilize foreign investment. As Ms. Li announced in her opening remarks, the actual amount of foreign capital utilized in the first half of this year was close to 500 billion yuan, maintaining a relatively high level compared to the past decade. Frankly speaking, the scale of foreign investment has experienced a year-on-year decline, primarily attributed to the exceptionally high base in the same period last year.

From a structural perspective, the composition of foreign investment has been continuously optimized. The proportion of actual foreign investment in China's high-tech manufacturing industry increased by 2.4 percentage points compared to the same period last year. Similarly, the proportion of foreign investment in the overall manufacturing industry also rose by 2.4 percentage points compared with the same period last year. These two instances indicate that the structure is being optimized and that foreign investors are actively adjusting their investment layouts across various industrial sectors. This trend aligns with China's broader initiatives to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces and advance new industrialization.

The underlying trend of China's economic recovery and long-term growth remains unchanged. China's comprehensive advantages — including its ultra-large-scale market, supply of high-quality industrial systems, and availability of high-end talent — continue to attract foreign investment. Most multinational companies are optimistic about long-term investment prospects in China, so they continue to increase their investments. As mentioned, nearly 27,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in the first half of this year, a 14.2% year-on-year increase. This figure demonstrates continued activity and continues the trend of rapid growth in the number of foreign-invested enterprises that we've seen since last year.

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee detailed a comprehensive plan for attracting and utilizing foreign investment. Next, we will deeply study and implement the guiding principles of the third plenary session. We will uphold the Party's overall leadership, adhere to a people-centered approach, uphold fundamental principles and break new ground, strengthen institution building as our main task, stay committed to law-based governance on all fronts, and apply systems thinking. We will increase efforts to attract and utilize foreign investment. Moreover, we will pursue high-standard opening up to advance in-depth reform and high-quality development. Specifically, this includes the following aspects:

First, we will steadily expand institutional opening up. As previously mentioned when discussing pilot free trade zones, these areas play an important role in foreign investment, accounting for 20.8% — a significant share. Therefore, the work of pilot free trade zones is also crucial to foreign investment efforts. We will align with high-standard economic and trade rules mainly through pilot free trade zones and free trade ports. This will help achieve interoperability of rules, regulations, management and standards in multiple fields. We aim to leverage the exemplary role of pilot free trade zones and the Hainan Free Trade Port, while promptly extending qualified pilot measures to free trade zones nationwide.

Second, we will further relax market access. We will expand the catalog of industries that encourage foreign investment and publish the 2024 version of the negative list for foreign investment access. We will implement measures proposed by General Secretary Xi Jinping to remove all restrictions on foreign investment access in the manufacturing sector, meaning restrictions on the manufacturing industry throughout the country should be eliminated. At the same time, in light of our own development needs, we will promote orderly opening up in areas such as telecommunications, the internet, education, culture and medical care. We will also revise the Measures for Strategic Investment by Foreign Investors in Listed Companies to encourage more high-quality foreign capital to enter our capital market for long-term investment.

Third, we will deepen the reform of mechanisms and systems to promote foreign investment. We will focus on building the "Invest in China" brand and enhancing the effectiveness of key investment expos, including the notable China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) hosted in Xiamen, along with other landmark events. We will improve the system for assessing the effectiveness of efforts promoting foreign investment, support regions in innovating their investment attraction models, and focus on advantageous fields to elevate the precision of investment solicitation, thereby drawing in more high-quality foreign capital.

Fourth, we will continue to enhance various opening-up platforms. This includes promoting comprehensive trials and demonstrations for expanding the opening up of the service sector. We will introduce new pilot projects to increase openness and innovation in fields such as value-added telecommunications, medical and health services, the digital economy, cultural tourism and transportation, and commercial aerospace and related niche consumption. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the inaugural batch of state-level economic and technological development zones. We are committed to the high-quality development of these zones, which is crucial in catalyzing an open economy and fostering new quality productive forces. 

Fifth, we will continue to optimize the environment for foreign investment. Annual assessments will be conducted on the effective implementation of the "Opinions of the State Council on Further Optimizing the Business Environment for Foreign Investment and Increasing the Attraction of Foreign Investment," i.e. 24 measures for boosting foreign investment. Each policy and measure will be thoroughly implemented. In line with directives from the State Council, we are further refining the roundtable meeting system for foreign-funded enterprises, as well as the mechanism for handling complaints by foreign investors, providing timely assistance to enterprises in overcoming difficulties. This ensures that foreign enterprises enjoy national treatment in terms of access to production factors, qualification licensing, standards setting and government procurement, thereby sharing the dividends of China's reform and opening up.

That is all from me. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, we will take two final questions.

CCTV:

The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee just wrapped up recently, at which the importance of accelerating the development of new drivers for foreign trade was emphasized. Could you share the key initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Commerce in this field this year? What are the plans or initiatives we can expect?

Li Xingqian:

Developing new drivers for foreign trade is an initiative responsive to both the laws of the market and global demands. This approach aims to refine the structure of our foreign trade offerings, boost trade efficiency and more effectively cater to the production and living needs of end-users by deepening international cooperation and fostering innovative practices within supply chains. The export-import situation in the first half of the year indicates that China's foreign trade has achieved substantial gains in four aspects, which are also the focuses of our efforts to nurture new drivers for foreign trade.

First, cross-border e-commerce has been boosted in terms of both import and export. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies and adapting to emerging market demands, cross-border e-commerce stands as a dynamic component of foreign trade and is a business mode widely favored by consumers worldwide. In the first half of this year, around 9 million small parcels were exchanged daily between China and various countries, facilitating the rapid delivery of Chinese products to international customers and bringing an increasing array of premium goods to the Chinese market via cross-border e-commerce platforms. This year, the Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with other relevant departments, has rolled out special policies to support cross-border e-commerce and has organized on-site meetings, hosted targeted training programs and initiated measures for brand development and the cultivation of business entities. Looking ahead, we will enhance exchanges in cross-border e-commerce, bolster supply-demand connections, engage more deeply in international cooperation, and continue to expand comprehensive pilot zones for cross-border e-commerce.

Second, green trade has become a growing trend. Green trade not only involves trading in eco-friendly, low-carbon products and services, but also entails the green and low-carbon transformation of all elements of the foreign trade supply chain — such as R&D, procurement, manufacturing, logistics and marketing. We released a handbook on green and low-carbon transformation for foreign trade enterprises in the first half of this year and intend to publish further guides. Moreover, we have conducted thematic trainings and are swiftly developing a public service platform for green trade, with the aim to diversify services for foreign trade enterprises. Moving forward, our aim is to research and enact specialized policies for fostering green trade, progressively build a robust support system for related initiatives, cultivate a conducive international environment, and enhance the capabilities of foreign trade enterprises in sustainable and low-carbon operations.

Third, the digitalization of trade has been accelerated. This year, the Ministry of Commerce, along with relevant departments, has been vigorously promoting the application of digital technologies within trade sectors, achieving a paperless cargo release rate of up to 90% at some ports. We have organized numerous exchanges on trade digitalization and examined methodologies to facilitate the utilization of electronic bills of lading in finance and other sectors. At the same time, we are encouraging global collaboration by initiating digital pilots that cover the whole process of international trade with our trade partners. Future steps involve supporting regional- and enterprise-level efforts to explore practical ways to fully digitize trade processes, guiding foreign trade participants toward proactive digital transformation, refining the systems for trade digitalization, and deepening cooperation and exchanges within the international trade realm.

Fourth, expanding imports provides new momentum and opportunities for our trading partners. Actively increasing imports is a significant step in further opening up to the world, contributing to global economic development and demonstrating China's commitment as a responsible major country. We have made significant strides in facilitating imports. In the first half of this year, China's import volume reached 9 trillion yuan, an increase of 5.2% year on year. Going forward, we will continue to leverage platforms like the CIIE, the China International Consumer Products Expo, and the import section of the Canton Fair. We will advance free trade agreement negotiations with relevant countries and regions and support increased imports of high-quality products, turning China's vast market into a global opportunity. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

The last question, please.

Xinhua News Agency:

Could you brief us on the key achievements of high-quality BRI cooperation in the economic and trade sectors and share future plans? Thank you.

Li Yongjie:

Thank you for your question. Since 2018, General Secretary Xi Jinping has made a series of important statements on promoting high-quality BRI cooperation, providing direction and a framework for economic and trade cooperation with Belt and Road partner countries. Conscientiously following and implementing his directives, we have made major progress in continuously deepening pragmatic economic and trade cooperation with partner countries. I'd like to elaborate on this by focusing on the following three aspects:

First, the scale of our cooperation has continued to expand. From 2018 to 2023, our trade in goods with BRI partner countries grew from $1.9 trillion to $2.8 trillion, representing an average annual growth rate of 8.1% and increasing the share of the total trade from 40.6% to 46.6%. In the first half of this year, our trade in goods with BRI countries reached $1.4 trillion, accounting for 47.4% of total trade. From 2018 to 2023, our cumulative direct investment in these countries reached $180 billion, with an average annual growth rate of 5.9%. In the first half of this year, our non-financial direct investment in these countries reached $15.46 billion, accounting for 21.3% of our total outbound investment. From 2018 to 2023, the cumulative value of newly signed construction contracts with partner countries reached $1.3 trillion, and the actual turnover of Chinese contractors reached $800 billion. In the first half of this year, these figures were $93.35 billion and $58.92 billion, respectively, both exceeding 80% of the total.

Second, the quality of our cooperation has been steadily improving. Our trade structure has been consistently optimized. We have expanded exports of equipment and component parts with partner countries, contributing to local industrial growth. For example, our exports of electronic components, general machinery equipment and medical equipment in the first half of the year have seen rapid growth. At the same time, we have actively expanded imports of agricultural and industrial products from partner countries, providing them greater access to China's vast market. For example, in the first half of the year, we saw rapid import growth in agricultural products like dried and fresh fruits, nuts, barley and wheat as well as industrial products like automobile components. Our cooperation with partner countries has also expanded into new areas. We've signed investment and cooperation agreements with 42 partner countries in green development, the digital economy, and the blue economy. Moreover, we are actively expanding industrial cooperation in areas such as new energy vehicles and photovoltaics. The number of partner countries participating in our Silk Road e-commerce program has grown to 33. The quality of our cooperation projects has also seen significant improvements. Besides the completion of landmark projects like the China-Laos Railway we have introduced various "small and beautiful" livelihood projects related to agriculture, education and health care. We continue to enhance sustainability in BRI development. In the first half of this year, the value of new contracts for energy-saving and environmentally friendly projects grew by nearly 70%.

Third, the form of our cooperation has been diversified. We have strengthened communication with partner countries through bilateral mechanisms. We have established trade facilitation working groups with 24 partner countries, investment cooperation working groups with 64 partner countries, and joint venture mechanisms for trade in services with seven partner countries. We have also signed economic and trade agreements to unlock institutional advantages. We have signed 15 free trade agreements with partner countries and recently concluded bilateral investment agreements with countries like Angola. We are also leveraging platforms such as exhibitions and forums to deepen cooperation. We have successfully hosted six editions of the CIIE, attracting over 7,000 enterprises from Belt and Road partner countries. Additionally, we have achieved fruitful results in advancing cooperation and deepening exchanges through the China-Arab Cooperation Forum and the China-Africa Cooperation Forum.

Going forward, MOFCOM will continue to implement the guiding principles of General Secretary Xi Jinping on BRI cooperation, the major reform initiatives from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, improve the mechanism for high-quality BRI cooperation, and carry out the eight major measures for supporting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, delivering real and substantive results for all participants. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, today's press conference is hereby concluded. Thank you to the four speakers and friends from the media. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Wang Yiming, Wang Qian, Liu Caiyi, Zhou Jing, Liu Sitong, Wang Yanfang, Yan Bin, Yan Xiaoqing, Yang Xi, Ma Yujia, Liao Jiaxin, Guo Yiming, Li Huiru, Wang Ziteng, Wang Wei, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.