Lin-gang to assume 1,149 administrative powers

Shanghai's Lin-gang Special Area Administration will assume 1,149 administrative powers from district- and municipal-level authorities, according to a document released by the municipal government on Oct 12.

Of the 1,149 administrative powers, 552 were previously exercised at the municipal level and 597 at the district level. They cover administrative licensing, penalties, inspections, enforcement, and other types of administrative powers.

The powers span fields closely related to business operations, including talent services, intellectual property, planning and natural resources, construction and transportation, environmental regulation, and emergency management.

Specific matters include planning permits for construction land and projects, planning and natural resources inspections upon project completion, environmental impact assessments and pollutant discharge permits, enterprise and foreign investment project approvals, and overseas investment project filings.

The list also covers approvals for foreign-invested travel agencies, entertainment venues, and internet service venues.

The powers apply within the 431-square-kilometer area directly administered by the Lin-gang Special Area Administration.

Updated service guides will be published, and the transfer of the administrative powers must be completed by Dec 31, 2026.