China's state assets supervisor said in a notice Thursday it would accept requests, effective immediately, from individuals and institutions for data about state-invested companies to promote transparency.

The State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) said it would release the information on its website or through the media.

It would release government documents and regulations as well as details of the businesses and state asset management of these companies, it said. The notice said information would not be released if it was against national, public or economic security or if it violated the legal rights and interests and commercial secrets of the companies.

Individuals or institutions can apply by letter, fax or e-mail. The agency will reply within 15 days.

The SASAC will also set up public reference rooms for the public to seek information.

(Xinhua News Agency February 13, 2009)