Sixteen cities in east China's Yangtze River Delta will share their large items of scientific equipment so as to reduce the costs of technological innovation.

The move was decided at the Fifth Conference for Economic Coordination between Cities in the Yangtze River Delta. Their research institutes and laboratories will also cooperate in design, inspection, testing and standardization services.

The cities will also establish a research and development database to share information on equipment.

In recent years, strong economic growth has allowed cities in the Yangtze River Delta to invest heavily in science and technology, particularly in scientific equipment.

However, over-investment and inefficient use of this equipment has handicapped technological development in the region.

(CRI November 4, 2004)