In a major reform in China's highest institution of natural sciences, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) will turn some of its research institutes into high-technology enterprises, said Lu Yongxiang, president of the CAS.

The reforms are aimed to create several high-tech companies, which will be very competitive technologically, said Lu.

The CAS Software Center and nine other institutes which have already become enterprises will enjoy favorable policies from the CAS and from the government.

Companies run by the CAS and its institutes will be encouraged to introduce modern enterprise systems.

The CAS will try to implement a strict appraisal system of its research institutes, reform its budget system and optimize the use of its resources. (Xinhua)