The central authorities revealed on Monday that China is deliberating changes to its "green card" policy and considering more flexible and pragmatic rules to lower the application and approval thresholds, a move aimed at attracting more foreign talent.

The country launched its green card system in 2004 to provide permanent residency for elite foreign talent, including those who have made large investments or outstanding contributions to the country. But by 2011, only some 4,700 foreigners had managed to obtain Chinese green cards, a small number compared to the 600,000 expats living in China.

By lowering the green card application and approval threshold, China is taking the first step toward retaining foreign talent, said a commentary in China Youth Daily on Wednesday.