Companies could include facilities in nearby areas within scope of reforms

Premier Li Keqiang wrapped up a two-day visit to the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone on Friday with a promise that companies registered in the zone will get more flexibility to expand beyond the boundaries of the FTZ while still functioning under the umbrella of the zone's pilot status.

Experts said his comments indicated that the 28-sq-km area will become a concept as well as a specific location.