Life of Guangzhou - Mayor: GDP Expected 12% Increase and CPI 4% Decrease

In 2007, the GDP in Guangzhou reached 9,302 USD, an 11.3% increase over 2006, reported mayor Zhang Guangning in a government report conference yesterday. The GDP increase is expected to surpass 12% in 2008.

Mayor Zhang Guanning giving the report. (Guangzhou Daily photo)

The scene at the conference (Guangzhou Daily photo)

The third conference of the 13th Guangzhou People's Congress inaugurated at the Baiyun International Conference Center on Sunday. 478 deputies participated in the meeting. Citizens from all walks of life and officials from the Consulates in Guangzhou sat in on the meeting.

CPI rises less than 4% in 2008

In the year 2007, Guangzhou's GNP reached 705 billion RMB. The city has witnessed over 100 billion RMB yearly increase on GNP for the 5th successive year.

Guangzhou City along the Pearl River (File photo)

The government aims to control the 2008 CPI rise with less than 4% and ensure steady prices of food and commodities. More will be put into improve the city's infrastructure and citizens' daily life.

Creation industry encouraged to develop

Inputs in education, housing and industry are also emphasized in the report. Children of migrant workers in the city will have the right to enjoy 9-year compulsory education free. Price-limited apartments will further cover more applicants and relieve stress on the housing system.

Housing focus for the citizens. (File photo)

The 3 pillar industries in Guangzhou - automobile, electronic and petroleum are now required to adjust their direction from "made in Guangzhou" to "created in Guangzhou". New materials, environmental-friendly energy, software and creation are greatly encouraged.

Parking space for 50,000 vehicles added

The deputy suggested that huge parking lots should be built in the outskirts of Guangzhou, reducing private cars from other cities and encouraging car owners to use public transportation. Spaces of vertical and underground parking lots are planned to increase by 30%.

The 6-day conference covers topics including economics, health, environment, industry, finance, transportation and security.

(By Jessie Hwang, Alan Devey)

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