The School of Contemporary Chinese Studies presents this seminar from Dr Guilong Shen, Shanghai Academy of Social Science.

Abstract: The operation of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone (SFTZ) has achieved positive progress in implementing the five major missions in the Framework Plan of the State Council, and has also provided valuable experience for China’s reforms and opening. From the perspective of institutional innovation, there are three types of reforms. The first type is the continuation of practices which have been tested in other regions in China. The second type is the broadening of reforms in zones which were part of SFTZ, such as the Waigaoqiao Tree Trade Zone. The third type is innovation reforms which have not been done before in China. The last type is the highlight of SFTZ. while innovation reforms of SFTZ have made progress, four aspects needs to be strengthened: The speed and pace of reforms are slower than expected; innovation measures are far behind international standard; innovations trend to be fragmented; and the operability of innovations tend to be fragmented; and the operability of innovations needs to be strengthened. Furthermore, deep-rooted underlying problems include bottlenecks in institution, in organizational mechanism, and in the legal system. Strengthening the coordination function of the SFTZ Leading Group in Shanghai; enhancing the solemnity and authority of the law; and letting more enterprises, industry associations and other social organization to participate in the reform process of the SFTZ.

Admission free, all welcome.

Part of the China Seminar Series. For more information, visit the School of Contemporary Chinese Studies website.