Shanghai-based East China University of Political Science and Law (ECUPL) has been at the forefront of bridging academia and practice through its China Institute for Law-based Business Environment and establishing a legal business environment network that covers Shanghai and extends nationwide, the university said recently.

In Shanghai, ECUPL has been deeply involved in building a law-based business environment community, providing a supportive development space for small and innovative enterprises, and offering intellectual support for the enhancement of regulations aimed at promoting the private economy.

Such a collaborative model has expanded across the country. In 2024, the university launched a strategic partnership with Shenyang, Liaoning province, unveiling the northern base of the institute. This initiative is aimed at tailoring management solutions aligned with international standards for the revitalization of Northeast China.

In Shanxi and Guizhou provinces, Luo Peixin, vice-president of ECUPL and director of the institute, delivered reports to local government officials, promoting the concept that "the rule of law is the best business environment". The institute's specialized courses on building a legal business environment have also been well-received in the provinces of Fujian, Anhui and Jiangxi.

The China Institute for Law-based Business Environment was jointly established by ECUPL and the Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission in June 2024, alongside the creation of an expert committee dedicated to building a law-based business environment.

"As the sole sample city representing China to be surveyed by experts in the World Bank business environment assessments, Shanghai has undertaken substantial work from revising laws and regulations to improving government and public services, all benchmarked against international standards," said Luo.

"Shanghai's experience in institutional reform offers a microcosm of nationwide efforts to optimize the business environment," he added.