The main functions of this department are focused on study of innovation-driven strategies, institutional mechanisms, and related policies and theories.

The main functions of the Research Department of Social Development are undertaking research on social issues related to economic development and exploring the methods and development trends in providing public goods and social services under the institutions of the socialist market economy

The Enterprise Research Institute (ERI) specializes in providing the government and enterprises with consulting services through research on theories, policies and practices

The main function of Institute of Market Economy (IME) is to investigate and study major theoretical and practical issues in the market-oriented economic reform and development of China.

The main function of the Research Institute of Finance (RIF) is to research important theoretical and policy issues in financial reform and development, focusing on macro, strategic, policy-oriented and foreseeable issues in the financial sector.

Affiliated with the DRC, the Research Institute of Resources and Environment Policies (IREP) undertakes research on theories, strategies, institutions and policies for building a resource-conserving and environmentally-friendly society to promote sustainable development.

Affiliated with the Development Research Center of the State Council (DRC), the Institute of Public Administration and Human Resources undertakes research on overall, comprehensive, strategic and foresight issues concerning China’s economic and social transformation. It serves the government’s policy-making efforts.