The State Council approved the launch of three-year comprehensive pilot programs to further open up the service sector in Tianjin, Shanghai, Hainan province and Chongqing, according to a circular released on April 20, 2021.

The pilot programs should focus on the development orientation of each place, promote reform and opening-up of the service sector, boost the modern service industry, and develop new strength in international cooperation and competition, the circular said.

Diversified development in the above four places is encouraged. The circular suggested developing experiences that can be replicated and promoted nationwide in terms of accelerating the modern industrial system and building an open economic system at a higher level.

The circular also urged the Ministry of Commerce to work with other departments to strengthen guidance and coordination and evaluate results of the programs, ensuring to fully implement the reform and opening-up measures.

Major problems in the pilot programs must be reported to the State Council.