Beijing orders 2,000 inefficient factories to close

Beijing has ordered the closure of more than 2,000 highly polluting and energy-hungry industries by the end of September, Reuters reported, citing state media. Industries such as cement, coking, iron, paper and dyeing have been particularly targeted by the order, and companies could see their business licenses revoked if they do not comply. The decision fits in with Beijing’s larger goal of cutting national energy intensity by 20% from 2005 levels in the five years to the end of 2010, but the closures will negatively affect industrial production data. China’s energy efficiency improved in the second quarter following a crackdown on wasteful industries earlier in the year.