The General Office of the State Council approved establishing a joint inter-ministry conference system to guide and promote industry associations and chambers of commerce in deepening reform, and advancing transition and development, according to a circular released on Sept 6.

The inter-ministry conference system will strengthen overall planning and coordination work on deepening reform of management systems and promoting sound and regulated development of industry associations and chambers of commerce, according to the circular.

It also will formulate related policies and measures, coordinate related work to resolve key issues and difficulties in the course of deepening reform, and continue to create a favorable environment for industry associations and chambers of commerce to leverage their strengths, the circular said.

Led by the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the conference system consists of 10 departments and units, with its office set at NDRC.

Other departments and units involved in sectors such as the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Science and Technology can join in related work, the circular said, adding that meetings will be convened as needed.