The Chinese government has rolled out measures with a clear timetable to end unnecessary certificates, or certificates with no legal basis, to bring convenience to citizens and enterprises in handling government-related affairs, according to a circular issued by the State Council in June.

It came after an announcement on relaxing market entry made by Premier Li Keqiang during the news conference for the first session of the 13th National People’s Congress in March.

The circular urged departments and local governments to study and offer advice on canceling or reserving certificates item by item, and remove certificates no later than the end of 2018, to ensure any license without a legal foundation will be canceled.

For necessary certificates, a list of their legal bases, issuing departments and process guidance should be published, and any government organ is banned from creating certificates beyond the list, according to the circular.

Any government unit issuing unnecessary certificates or raising requirements should be investigated, and those who cause adverse social impact should be held accountable.

Also, the circular stressed enhancing technical support for information sharing among and within government departments, to thoroughly address the problem.