The reform program to replace the business tax with a value-added tax will be expanded nationwide on Aug 1 in pilot sectors, Premier Li Keqiang said during a key meeting on Wednesday.

The expanded pilot program will also include enterprises in the radio, film and television industries, alongside those in the transport industry and some modern service sectors, Li said during an executive meeting of the State Council.

The companies will pay a value-added tax, which can be deducted along the supply chain, instead of a business tax to avoid duplicated taxation and to benefit from a lower tax burden.