Investment to be curbed

Macroeconomic control measures have to be expanded this year to curb excessive investment in fixed assets and the energy sector, according to Ma Kai, director of the National Development and Reform Commission, the South China Morning Post reported. China's 24% increase in fixed-asset investment in 2006 has spurred government authorities to look for ways to control the size of investment and enhance returns. Ma said the key to reining in excessive investment is to control the supply of land and currency, and limit the number of infrastructure projects. New projects will have to satisfy more stringent requirements in energy conservation and pollution.