A plan to allow cross-border stock trading between the Hong Kong and Shanghai stock markets was presented on Thursday, the mainland's latest move to open up its capital markets.

The trial will begin in six months and enable dealers to invest in designated shares through local securities firms or brokers, the China Securities Regulatory Commission said in a statement with the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong.

"It is an important step in the opening up of China's capital market and will enhance capital market connectivity between the mainland and Hong Kong," it said.