China's GDP Expands By 8.7 Pct In 2009

China's grosss domestic product (GDP) grew by 8.7 per cent in 2009 from a year earlier to reach 33.54 trillion yuan, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) here on Thursday.

NBS commisioner, Ma Jiantang, said in terms of growth by quarters, it was up 6.2 per cent for the first quarter, second quarter (7.9 per cent), third quarter(9.1 per cent) and fourth quarter (10.7per cent).

"In terms of growth by sectors, the primary industry rose by 4.2 per cent to 3.54 trillion yuan; secondary industry 15.69 trillion yuan ( 9.5 per cent); and, the tertiary industry 14.29 trillion yuan ( 8.9 per cent)," he told a media briefing here.

He said agricultural production continued to achieve steady growth which marked the six consecutive years of increase.

"In 2009, grain output rose to 530.82 million tonnes, an increase of 0.4 per cent over the previous year," he said.

Ma said industrial production rose quarter-by-quarter with heavy industry up 11.5 per cent and the light industry up 9.7 per cent.

He said investment continued to record fast growth.

"Total investment in fixed assets increased by 30.1 per cent year-on-year to 22.48 trillion yuan," he said.

He said the positive data did not meant that China was free from worries and challenges.

"My first worry is how to bring the price increase under control while promoting economic growth.

"Everybody is concerned about the price increases of real estate in some cities," he said.