The State Oceanic Administration announced 10 measures to promote development on December 10, as part of the government's efforts to stimulate domestic demand, according to a Beijing Morning Post report.

Domestic and foreign investors are to be given the right to exploit the resources of unpopulated islands. There will be enhanced oversight of investment projects and administrative procedures will be streamlined in order to promote development of the islands.

Yu Qingsong, a director of the State Oceanic Administration said China has over ten thousand unpopulated islands, many of which are suffering from chaotic development and blind exploitation, because of the absence of laws and regulations.

"It is better to bring investors in to develop the islands in a rational and strategic manner," said Yu.

(China.org.cn by He Shan, December 11, 2008)