ISSUING AUTHORITY:

The State Council of the People's Republic of China

DATE OF ISSUANCE:

July 3, 2025

EFFECTIVE DATE:

July 3, 2025

On July 3, 2025, the State Council issued a notice to replicate 77 pilot measures from the Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) nationwide, marking a significant step in China’s high-standard institutional reforms and aiming to build a more open economic system.

This move builds on the 2023 Shanghai FTZ initiative, following notable institutional innovations and successful practices. The Shanghai FTZ initiative conducted early and pilot tests in full alignment with international high-standard economic and trade rules, setting an example for future nationwide opening up while amplifying the benefits of institutional innovation for deeper reform and high-quality development. Notably, measures like digital RMB expansion and e-document adoption will streamline trade and investment, directly supporting Belt and Road partners through enhanced connectivity and digital economy collaboration.

These measures cover seven key areas, including services trade, goods trade, digital trade, and intellectual property protection, with 34 extended to other FTZs and 43 applied nationwide.

To expand the impact of the reform, the State Council instructs local governments and departments to follow four major components: recognizing the importance of promotion, strengthening primary responsibility while enhancing working mechanisms, organizing a clear division of responsibilities, and ensuring security through risk assessment and prevention.

Reference:

《国务院关于做好自由贸易试验区全面对接国际高标准经贸规则推进高水平制度型开放试点措施复制推广工作的通知》