China's rural areas have the biggest potential in boosting domestic demand, according to Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, speaking during a visit to the countryside yesterday.
Wang said China should make a priority of tapping the rural market and developing the countryside when at a time when the global financial crisis is blunting China's economic growth.
He made the remarks when visiting towns, rural stores and farmers in central China's Henan Province on Monday and Tuesday.
He said more chain stores should be set up in the countryside to boost rural consumption.
He also urged local officials to implement policies to subsidize the purchase of home appliances by farmers and their families, adding that financial institutions should develop more services targeting the need of farmers and rural enterprises.