Tianjin Municipality, Further Promotion of the Development of Chain Operations in Tianjin Implementing Opinion

Issued: March 12 2004

Main contents: The Opinion encourages certain existing chain operation enterprises to expand and get stronger through multiple channels such as asset reorganization, leasing and buy-out, while traditional department stores will be encouraged to transform themselves into modern shopping centres (Section Two(1)). It encourages local large chain enterprises to tap markets outside Tianjin and at the same time encourages large chain enterprises outside Tianjin including foreign ones to invest in the municipality (Section Two(1)). It also calls for accelerating the construction of logistics distribution centres, steadily pushing forward franchise operations and strengthening foreign exchanges and cooperation (Section Two(2), (3) and (4)). The administrative approval procedures will be simplified for chain operation enterprises to establish wholly owned or controlled distribution centres and stores, and to engage in the retail of pharmaceuticals, books, newspapers, magazines, audio and video products, and tobacco products (Section Three).
Related legislation: State Council Office for Restructuring the Economic System and State Economic and Trade Commission, Promoting the Development of Chain Operation Several Opinions, Aug 12 2002, CLP 2002 No.10 p8
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