They are still the backbone of the economy. Yet some are losing out in market completion, or failing to cater for public needs. They have undergone reforms. But this time, reforms must go deeper. Welcome to People In the Know. I'm Lin Shaowen, with the second installment of our reform series.
 
China is now mulling over a new round of SOE reforms. Measures include introducing more private capital in areas traditionally dominated by the state sector, and securing state assets so that the market can play a greater role. President Xi Jinping has held several meetings on the future direction of SOE reforms, and stressed the importance of avoiding the erosion of state assets and increasing their value in public service.

So what hurdles lie ahead for SOE reforms? How can the private sector forge greater synergy with SOEs in these reforms? CRI's Zheng Chenguang speaks to Dr. Edward Tse, founder and CEO of Gao Feng Advisory Company, based in Hong Kong.
 
So more completion, but better regulated, especially in some sectors where key public interests are at stake, not purely profit-driven. Like where? Like how? Next Zheng Chenguang talks to Professor Yao Shujie, Head of School of Contemporary Chinese Studies, University of Nottingham in the UK.
 
State-owned enterprises -I love you, sometimes I hate you, but I'll still need you. So behave better through reforms. That's the public outcry for SOEs. That brings us to the end of the second part of our People in the Know series on China's ongoing reforms. Your questions or comments for us can be sent to PIK@CRI.COM.CN. I'm Lin Shaowen. Thank you for joining us and make sure to tune in at the same time tomorrow when we discuss tax reforms.