China targets seven strategic industries for growth

China reaffirmed its intention to promote seven new strategic industries, including alternative energy and biotechnology, and spur firms in those sectors to expand abroad. The State Council said it would encourage banks to lend to these cutting-edge sectors. It also urged venture capital firms and private equity funds to finance their growth, according to a statement posted on the main government portal, www.gov.cn. The other industries are new-generation information technology, high-end equipment manufacturing, advanced materials, alternative fuel cars and energy-saving and environmental protection. Plans to develop the seven sectors are likely to feature prominently in the 2011-2015 five-year plan. (September 8, 2010)