The reform of the natural gas industry in the PR of China

In light of China's energy revolution, reform of the natural gas industry and the acceleration of the natural gas sector development are of strategic significance to ensure China's energy security, to optimise the energy consumption structure and to address environmental pollution. In recent years, the Chinese government has introduced numerous policies and developmental plans to speed up natural gas sector reform, which have led to considerable progress. However, China's natural gas industry and reform still encounter many problems and challenges. The purpose of this study is to investigate the reform of the natural gas industry in China. First, the current situation of China's natural gas industry is outlined. Next, four aspects of natural gas industry reform are systematically reviewed: natural gas administrative system reform, industry structure reform, pricing mechanism reform, and tax and fee system reform. Third, the major problems and challenges facing further reform of the natural gas industry are analysed in depth. Finally, this study proposes policies and suggestions for China's natural gas sector in the coming future.