In order to improve the local business environment, especially to simplify the procedures for starting a business in the city, Harbin municipal people’s government released a plan with a target set to reduce the time required.

The plan specifically requires relevant departments to reduce the unnecessary examination and approval procedures, increasing the efficiency of customs clearances, with a target set to reduce it to less than five days.

In addition, the necessary procedures are expected to be shortened within four steps, including company name approval and registration, making official seals, accepting invoices and social security registration.

Harbin plans to provide a “one-stop approval” process, which allows businesses to complete the whole process in one place. Meanwhile, the city is also working to offer better access for registering the names of new businesses.

As for a firm’s official seal, the government will now allow enterprises to choose their own. Besides, the social security administration department of Harbin has adopted an improved registration process for social security, providing a much more convenient service for enterprises.

Moreover, related tasks will be promoted through a Harbin e-government citizen services platform starting from Sept 1 this year.