Transparency of trade policy

Transparency is another basic principle of the WTO, according to which all members shall publish all trade- related laws, regulations and other measures. The implementation and observation of the transparency principle is conducive to building an open and fair market environment for competition. In fact, since 1991, China has itself been gradually publishing its trade- related laws, regulations and other measures. As such, China has committed to observation of the WTO transparency principle.

All the laws, regulations and other measures related to foreign trade will be published before they are implemented. Laws and regulations pertinent to WTO agreements shall be reported by China to the WTO. Following accession to the WTO, China will establish or designate an enquiry point in the foreign trade administration, which shall provide a reasonable period for comment to the appropriate authorities before such measures are implemented. Replies to WTO members shall be complete and shall represent the authoritative view of the Chinese government. Accurate and reliable information will be provided to individuals and enterprises . Replies to requests for information shall generally be provided within 30-45 days after receipt of a request. Upon the request of WTO members, a translated version in formal WTO language shall be provided within 90 days after the publication of the laws and regulations.

Following its entry to the WTO, China has set up the WTO Notification and Consulting Bureau in MOFTEC. Since 14 January 2002, when it began offering consulting services to the public, the bureau has received hundreds of enquiries from foreign embassies in China, overseas and domestic enterprises and individuals. Most of the enquiries have been replied to in writing.