The regulation will be effective on Dec. 1, 2002 and its predecessor issued on Apr. 15, 1991 will be automatically annulled.

According to the regulation, no government departments, institutions, private enterprises or other businesses are allowed to employ minors under 16 years old. Job recommendations for them are banned in all job agencies.

Meanwhile, youngsters less than 16 years old are not permitted to start up a business or become self-employed.

The regulation says that employers must check the identity cards of all job applicants. Parents and children's legitimate guardians are responsible for protecting their minors from being illegally employed.

Government departments such as the labor and social security departments, the police and administrations for industry and commerce are authorized to supervise and stop any use of child labor.

Violations by business people or government officials will lead to punishment which includes fines, withdrawal of business licenses and criminal charges.

(Xinhua News Agency October 17, 2002)