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.