The spring report of 2006 on economic forecast, released by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences on April 24, expects China's national economy to maintain a fast growth of 9.6 percent this year.

The report also predicts the fixed assets investment in China will amount to 10,788 billion yuan, breaking through 10 trillion for the first time.

It is estimated that the price indices will rise very slowly in 2006. Although prices of crude oil and some bulk commodity are surging on the international market, the macro-economic landscape helps moderate the price hike. As a result, the domestic consumer price index will climb merely two percent. The stability of prices will provide sound environment for the development of economy and society.

According to Beijing Evening, the income of urban and rural residents will keep increasing this year, with 5.8 percent growth of disposable personal income (DIP) for urban dwellers.

In addition, the retailing sales will amount to 7559 billion yuan.

By People's Daily Online