Eight departments responsible for areas closely related to people's health and safety, such as food, building finishing materials and medical appliances, all expressed their determination to crack down on below-standard commodities.

Open markets are to be given first attention, with a focus on enforcing supervision and eradicating counterfeit and substandard products.

"Standardization of the market is the key to enhancing the city's appeal as an international metropolis," said Chai Junyong, deputy secretary-general of the municipality.

With the country's membership of the World Trade Organization, the government cannot depend on offering preferential policies to multinational companies as it would violate the principle of equal treatment for all citizens.

"Only if we create an open, fair and just economic environment will foreign capital flow into the city," Chai said.

Problems in the real estate market are the most serious. Exaggerated advertisements mislead consumers, and agents con buyers to increase their profits.

Related departments all publicize their hotlines and websites to make it easier for people to report their complaints. And they will co-operate effectively with each other and regularly examine performance in their own departments.

(China Daily April 30, 2002)