CHINA is still in the process of improving the long- awaited fuel tax plan, said Finance Minister Jin Renqing on Friday.

While reiterating that the government is aiming to roll out the fuel tax system “as soon as possible,” Jin didn’t give a clear timetable.

Jin made the comments at a press conference held during the National People’s Congress.

He also said the current proposal being studied focuses on having a fuel tax replace road traffic and maintenance fees, rather than a plan that focuses on conserving energy as many have expected.

He didn’t give details about the system being planned.

Jin stressed that the government is concerned about the ability of ordinary people to cope with such a fuel tax, which will be linked to the level of fuel consumption by individuals. (SD-Agencies)