China has planned a crackdown on illegal surveying and mapping, the State Bureau of Surveying and Mapping said Monday.

The bureau is the only body in China legally allowed to undertake such work, but illegal surveyors have been publishing and selling maps. The bureau said it uncovered 791 cases of illegal surveying and mapping in 2008.

The bureau outlined the crackdown during a video conference with local branches. It said it would "strictly control" the gathering, offering and use of confidential geographic information.

It would also crack down on the illegal production, publication and transmitting of geographic information and prevent and prohibit illegal surveying and mapping for military use.

Officials said the bureau would undertake stricter inspection of foreign organizations and individuals who enter China to undertake surveying and mapping activities.

The bureau would also strengthen education on the laws and regulations that cover surveying and mapping, they said.

(Xinhua News Agency March 17, 2009)