New types of businessmen associations emerged following the development of new industries and commerce during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. These associations included comprehensive, sector-specific and even city-specific associations. These associations, such as chambers of commerce, guilds, clan associations, and street business leagues, played an important role in the self-management, sectoral management and municipal construction. The groups moderate conflicts within the business sectors accordingly by using tools such as institutional design, mechanism building and authorised self-management powers. As a result, the public sphere was expanding and philanthropic activities were enhanced. The tools of social management of a city were therefore enhanced and its efficiency was also improved.