Stimulus Package Showing Effect on Guangzhou Economy
Guangzhou authorities held a press conference yesterday (August 4) to present the results of 18 measures the government has set-up to boost domestic demand. Our journalist Wang Jianping was at the conference:
In the first half of this year, Guangzhou's GDP growth rate was of 8.5%, that's 1.4% higher than the provincial and national level. In addition, fixed asset investments soared nearly 20% and retail revue grew over 12%. The director of the Guangzhou Development and Reform Commission, Mr. Chen Haotian, told media that this shows that the measures to boost domestic demand are starting to take effect.
"For 2009 and 2010, we have decided on key construction projects requiring a total investment of 650 billion yuan, amongst which 350 billion yuan will be spent this year. Investment has been set aside for the Asian Games, improving infrastructure and the environment, without forgetting people's livelihood."
In terms of environmental protection, in the first 6 months of 2009, Guangzhou has seen 94.5% of days with an air quality reaching fairly good standards. Chen added that:
"in the first half year, we have shut down 7 coal power stations and emissions of both sulfur dioxide and chemical oxygen demand are on the decline."    

32 Toll Booths to be Closed
By 2010, Guangdong will close 32 tolls on its secondary highways. This decision is part of numerous efforts to incorporate the 9 PRD cities, creating a fluid transportation network in the region and relieving pressure on other major axis. By 2012, drivers will be able to purchase an annual ticket valid throughout the entire PRD region.

Guangzhou and Foshan to Unify Call Fees
Beginning in January 2012, mobile phone users calling between Guangzhou and Foshan will no longer be charged for a long-distance call. What's more, for landlines, fees in the two cities will be unified. Guangzhou authorities announced the decision yesterday (August 4) in a new step towards uniting the 2 cities.