A resident buys apples at a market in Lianyungang, Jiangsu province. (Photo: China Daily)

China will take a multipronged and targeted approach to step up relief for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, the State Council's executive meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang decided on Wednesday.

"The confidence and market expectations of MSMEs are falling. In this context, we need to further bolster relief policy support for MSMEs and help them grow more competitive. The relief policies must be inclusive and targeted," Li said.

Efforts will be made to prevent cost-induced pressure being transmitted from commodity price hikes to downstream industries. Inclusive benefit policies including time-limited tax and fee cuts will be studied as quickly as possible, and localities encouraged to provide support to MSMEs such as reduction or exemption of rent and utility bills, to lighten their burden and help them tide over difficulties.

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises will be supported in developing themselves into ones with specialized, sophisticated techniques and unique, novel products, to enhance their competitiveness.

"We need to respond proactively to the acute difficulties facing MSMEs and help ease their cost-induced pressure. The central government will roll out temporary support policies to shore up their confidence," Li said.

"Supporting MSMEs and other market entities will ensure stability in employment, and is also conducive to increasing supply and stabilizing prices."