China is expected to split off its oil and natural gas pipelines from state-owned oil giants.[Photo:Chinanews.com]

Media reports say China will split off its oil and natural gas pipelines from state-owned oil giants.

Insiders believe the spin-off of oil and gas pipelines would help break the monopoly in the sector by integrating the operation of state-owned oil companies and reinforcing competitiveness of the industry.

It's said that further private capital will be sought, with fully state-owned companies and private firms both enjoying space in the sector.