China unveils new steps to facilitate foreign trade

China has adopted 16 measures to optimize the business environment at its ports and streamline customs clearance processes for foreign trade companies, the General Administration of Customs said on Thursday.

The government aims to cultivate new drivers of foreign trade growth and explore new opportunities.

These measures will support the development of new foreign trade formats such as cross-border e-commerce and bonded repairs, according to a statement released by the administration.

The new measures also include facilitating faster customs clearance for businesses, assisting companies in fully utilizing tax incentives and helping them reduce operational costs.

Currently, more than 630,000 companies in China are involved in import and export activities, serving as the driving force behind the country's efforts to expand its presence in international markets, said the administration.