Reform the administration approval system

Premier Li Keqiang in a press conference vowed to cut a third of current government's more than 1,700 administration approval procedures to smooth the operation of society and the market. Reducing the number of government's administration approval procedures is the priority in reforming government's functions, says an editorial in Guangzhou Daily. Excerpts:

The government's "macro-regulation and control" feels like a tangible hand for Chinese entrepreneurs. The complex administration approval procedures sometimes make business people feel helpless.

The powerful administration approval system seriously affects the effective deployment of resources and hinders the development of the economy. Although the State Council has reformed the system six times, China has a long way to go to fully release its market and social vitality.

There are three aspects to deepen the reform. First, the government should be more open to the investment system by simplifying the administration approval procedures for private capital in many fields. Secondly, China's social organizations deserve more freedom in both registration and operation. Third, the government should abolish some outdated restrictions on enterprises and social organizations.

Governments always regard their administration approval rights as a lucrative power to seek interests. Legislators of the country should make laws to completely eliminate this wrong mindset from officials' heads.