Statistics showed that as of the end of September, funds in actual use in the zone topped US$56.3 million, a rise of 26 percent compared with the same period last year.

Its three pillar industries are high technology, advanced materials and biotechnology pharmaceuticals

To standardize its investment environment in line with international regulations, the Fushun Economic Development Zone applied for International Standard Organization (ISO) 14000 certification in July.

One-stop service has been adopted in more than 10 departments including industry and commerce, customs, tax and environmental protection in a bid to improve efficiency.

"We are encouraging the growth of high-tech industries as well as boosting the development of labour-intensive industries,".

(china.org.cn November 13, 2002)