Social organizations to become independent

China's trade and professional associations will become independent from government agencies by 2015, the head of the nation's top authorities that oversee social organizations announced on Thursday.

The reform, intended to boost the dynamics of social organizations, is expected to start in about 100 national trade and professional associations in January, said Li Liguo, minister of civil affairs, at a news conference in Beijing.

Li said his ministry is conducting a reform plan jointly with other government departments, including the National Development and Reform Commission.