China set a target of 7 percent economic growth for 2004, down from 2003's projected rate of 8.5 percent.
The State Development and Reform Commission (SDRC) said the government's goal of slowing the pace of GDP growth was aimed at cultivating a "scientific approach'' to social development that placed more emphasis on indicators such as education, health, the environment and social welfare.
The SDRC suggested a massive campaign should be organized in 2004 to promote resource-shortage awareness among the public and governmental officials.
Economists said the target re-adjustment was aimed at curbing excessive growth in some sectors, which are putting a strain on transportation and power suppliers, driving up the prices of raw materials and damaging industries across the country.
