"We are greatly encouraged by the Party report which promises to promote the healthy development of the non-public sector and better safeguard private property," said Jing Shuping, chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, also known as China's general chamber of commerce.

He made the remarks at the ninth national congress of the federation, which began in Beijing on Saturday.

Established in 1953, Jing's federation has served as a bridge between the government and the non-public sector. It now represents more than 1.61 million members around the country.

"The federation should effectively consolidate, help, guide and educate its members to love the country, be professional, credible and law-abiding," said Wang Zhaoguo, member of the politburo of the CPC Central Committee.

Representing the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, Wang congratulated the federation on convening its national congress.

China's non-public sector, which embraces self-employed individuals, private and other forms of ownership outside the public sector, has seen rapid growth since the 1999 Constitution raised it from a "complement to the State-owned economy" to "an important constituting part" of the socialist market economy.

The nation now has more than 2.2 million privately run domestic enterprises representing a total investment of 2.1 trillion yuan (US$254 billion) and a labour force of 29 million.

Jing said the federation should have a better understanding of the Party report and translate its content into actions that suit the advancement of time.

"We should find out how the non-public sector can play an important role in stimulating economic growth, expanding employment and invigorating the market," Jing said.

(China Daily November 25, 2002)