BEIJING - Chinese small-cap stocks were the biggest beneficiaries from the ongoing annual legislative meetings in Beijing.

The ChiNext gauge climbed by 1.8 percent at the mainland close of trading, led by automation companies including CSG Smart Science & Technology Co, after Premier Li Keqiang said the government would "actively develop" the measure.

The CSI 300 added 0.5 percent as Midea Group Co and Gree Electric Appliances Inc rose to lead makers of consumer discretionary goods higher.