This would be made possible by processing of application through an Intranet connected with more than 40 relevant government departments, said an official with the municipal administration for industry and commerce.

"All companies within the administration of Guangzhou, including overseas-funded enterprises, are eligible," said the official.

He said during the past two months, relevant departments in Guangzhou have experimented with the registration process on the Intranet.

Apart from Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shanxi, Shandong and some other areas in China have also initiated similar programs as a response to China's entry into the WTO.

(Xinhua News Agency July 28, 2002)