Jan. 15, 2007 (China Knowledge) – The amount of foreign direct investment (FDI) being used in 2006 topped US$63 billion, an increase of 5% over the previous year, said Commerce Minister Bo Xilai on Monday.

Speaking at a national conference relating to commerce issues held in Beijing, Bo said that this figure is a positive sign, adding that China would make the service sector a key area to attract foreign investment.

Looking forward, Bo also said that more FDI would be channeled into research and development centers, new high-tech industries, advanced manufacturing, as well as the energy conservation and environmentally friendly sectors. The upgrading of China’s agricultural and outdated manufacturing facilities would also be given a boost with more FDI.