Regulatory Reform in China

The OECD has been requested by the Chinese authorities to initiate a Regulatory Reform Review of China. This is the second review of a non-member country, following that of Russia (2002-05). This review will be based on the well-tested methodology, which has generated country reviews in 22 OECD member countries and Russia. The China review will take account of the specific reform needs and challenges in China, while retaining the benefits of comparing and illustrating Chinese reform challenges with OECD practices.  As for the OECD Country reviews, this review will include three thematic sections covering cross-sectoral policy and institutional issues, three sectoral chapters, and a chapter synthesising the findings of the report as a whole as well as placing the reforms in a macro-economic context.

The report will generate recommendations for China to improve its regulatory frameworks and public services. The analysis and recommendations will cover capacities, tools and institutions for high-quality regulation; market openness; competition policy and municipal urban services.

To support discussions between the Chinese Government and OECD member countries during the analysis and formulation of the Review, a number of working groups have been created. The working groups will carry out and supervise analysis and policy dialogue as an input to the review. The groups will be composed of Chinese and OECD officials and experts. Two working groups are envisaged, covering i) trade and competition, ii) regulatory frameworks at both the national and municipal level. Stakeholders from the business and trade union community in OECD countries, through the BIAC and TUAC, will also have the opportunity to participate in the working groups.

Regulatory Reform Review in China: First Working Group Meeting, 12 September 2007, Beijing, China