The premier is nominated and appointed by the president with NPC approval. Incumbents may serve two successive five-year terms. Each vice premier oversees certain areas of administration. Each ministry supervises one sector. Commissions outrank ministries and set policies for and coordinate the related activities of different administrative organs.
Offices deal with matters of ongoing concern related to modernization.
Bureaus and administrations rank below ministries. Institutions include state media organs and research institutes. Other duties were transferred to newly expanded social intermediary organizations and local authorities, enabling the halving of staff.