IN a token measure to build a more diversified society, the Communist Party has set up the country's first non-governmental chamber of commerce, which, at least in theory, is similar to private business lobbies in Western countries.
Official reports said the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC) had taken on another name, the China Non-governmental Chamber of Commerce.
The decision was announced by Politburo member Li Lanqing at the opening of a plenum of the ACFIC in Beijing on Wednesday.
Mr Li, also a Vice-Premier, said the business body would become a ''bridge'' between the Government and the non-government economic sector.
The development of private economy would be accelerated as economic reform quickened, he said.
Mr Li urged ACFIC to promote the spirit of patriotism and law and order to build a good image and healthy development of the private sector.