8. Boosting imports for balanced trade

China has vowed to increase imports and cut import tariffs on some products to promote balanced trade as part of its effort to push forward a new pattern of all-round opening up.

The country will expand free trade zone pilot areas and guide foreign investors to operate in the country in an efficient way, according to the statement released after the Central Economic Work Conference.

The statement also asserted the country will push for nationwide implementation of a pre-establishment national treatment system as well as a negative list, which determines where foreign participation is prohibited or limited.

The negative list will become shorter and shorter, as the country improves laws and regulations and enhances protection of intellectual property.