China advises ‘softer approach’ to law enforcement to ease jitters in private sector

“Constructive interaction between an environment with the rule of law and private companies is a requirement for developing the economy,” the piece read, pointing out complaints from some private enterprises over issues like “too frequent” inspections by local law enforcement and “inappropriate” administrative fines.

The editorial followed a report on Tuesday from the National Development and Reform Commission – China’s top economic planner – delivered to the standing committee of the National People’s Congress, the leading body of the country’s top legislature which works outside full sessions.

The commission stressed the need to support the country’s private sector, and made specific mention of an end to “selective” law enforcement methods.

The “practicality” of law enforcement came up in the Study Times piece as it addressed problems encountered in implementation.

“It is necessary to clarify different roles and functions along the chain of implementation,” the editorial said, “such as the combination of fragmented operations by different departments.”

“Novelty” is necessary when carrying out laws, the authors said, which could reduce “inappropriate” disruptions to company operations at a time when the economy is facing downward pressures.

“Currently, law enforcement work at the grass roots level focuses on small and micro-sized enterprises,” the piece noted, citing “integrated investigations” and the development of “joint law enforcement plans” as examples of potential reforms.

The Study Times also emphasised “agility” in terms of the capability of law enforcement – especially among on-the-ground personnel – and suggested tackling situations in effective and efficient ways.

“Simplifying the process of implementation and using communication, negotiation, coordination and participation instead of hard penalties to redress issues are encouraged,” the editorial said.

In addition to the Study Times piece, a front-page commentary by party newspaper People’s Daily said on Wednesday that China will continue on the path of economic reform, with new policies strengthening “coordination” to “prevent [departments] working separately and restraining each other”.