China's first National Economic Census is attracting wide attention. Publicity campaigns have begun to ensure a smooth process. Authorities say preparations have already been completed.

Scheduled to begin on December the 31st, the census will gather complete financial data from enterprises in China's industrial and service sectors. This information will be used to create a blueprint for the areas. A database covering all economic sectors will also be completed, for the central government to design future economic and social plans.

Publicity campaigns for the census began on Saturday. Beijing set up 259 campaign stations.

Vice Mayor of Beijing, Zhang Mao said, "The data collected this time will only be used in the census. We'll keep it confidential. And we hope we can ease fears that it will be misused for other purposes and help to ensure our work."

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, more than 10 million statisticians and volunteers will be involved in the effort. Training is now going on around the country. Experts say the information gathered will provide comprehensive data for macro-economic policy decision-making.

The Chinese government is currently drawing up the 11th Five-Year Plan, this one for 2006 to 2010. The results of the economic census are expected to be applied to the plan, as soon as they become available.

Source: CCTV.com