China plans to build its large-scale state-owned enterprises
(SOE) stronger and enhance their competitive edge in the
international market.
The giant SOEs managed by the central government realized
sustainable and fast growth in 2006 and made important
contributions to the country's economic and social development,
said Chinese Vice Premier Huang Ju in his message to SOE leaders
that convened on Friday.
He urged the central SOEs to speed up joint-stock reform and
strengthen technology innovation as well as energy resources saving
to become more competitive in the international market.
Chinese Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan said in his speech delivered to
the meeting that sales revenue of the central SOEs are expected to
reach eight trillion yuan (US$1.02 trillion) in 2006, up 18 percent
year on year.
Zeng said the nurturing of large-scale enterprises with
international clout is a prerequisite for China to turn from a big
economy into a strong economy.
China currently has 159 central SOES. The government says it
plans to reduce their numbers to 80 to 100 by 2010 through mergers
and takeovers.
(Xinhua News Agency January 8, 2007)