Crackdown on Local Law Enforcement Overreach

A rundown of the news making headlines in and around China:

Crackdown on overreach: China’s premier announced that the government will next year launch a campaign to prevent local law enforcement overreach. Speaking at a State Council study session, Li Qiang said the campaign will aim to strengthen businesses’ confidence, make law enforcement more transparent and accountable, and ensure that punishments aren’t excessive. The problem of local governments actively seeking out businesses based in other areas to target with fines and asset confiscation — dubbed “long-distance fishing” — has grown as cash-strapped regions look to bolster their income.