China launched a reform package on Monday for Shanghai Harbor, the country's largest port, with the goal of increasing efficiency in port administration and management.
The Shanghai Municipal Port Bureau and the Shanghai International Port Group have been established in order to separate the administrative and corporate functions, which were previously handled by the same port authority.
The reform will be carried out in accordance with modern corporate systems, said Deputy Mayor Han Zheng, adding that the reform is essential for Shanghai Port's development into an international center of maritime commerce.
The official expressed the hope that the reform will increase the port's competitiveness in the global shipping market.
Last year, the Port of Shanghai handled 260 million tons of goods, including 8.61 million TEUs, according to official figures.
(Xinhua News Agency January 28, 2003)
