The Baiyin Municipal Bureau of Science and Technology said on Nov 11 that 24 of the city’s projects are listed in the Circular on the 2013 National Scientific and Technology Plan released by the Ministry of Science and Technology, adding that this demonstrates the city’s capabilities and achievements in these fields.

The 24 projects include eight which are part of China’s Torch Program, two projects of the National Spark Program, one project of the National Key New Product Program and 13 projects which are part of the Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Innovation Fund Program.

China’s Torch Program refers to the planning of the country’s high-tech industry, which is approved by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and implemented by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

The National Spark Program aims to promote the transformation of the rural economy from extensive to intensive growth by increasing labor productivity and economic benefits and guiding farmers to change their traditional mode of production. It is of great significance for accelerating the improvement of scientific and technical standards in rural areas.

Baiyin’s two projects listed in this program relate to Chinese herbal medicine and sheep embryo transplants.

In addition, a project related to CW550-11G Efficient Centrifugal Blower for Calcium Carbide Furnace Gas Recovery was selected as part of the National Key New-Product Program, and 13 projects, with an investment of 7.7 million yuan ($1.26 million), are part of the 2013 National Technical Innovation Fund Program for small and medium-sized enterprises. The fund is approved by the State Council and aims to promote the technical innovation of small and medium-sized enterprises.

The implementation of these projects is expected to give renewed impetus to the innovation capabilities of Baiyin-based enterprises and enhance market competitiveness.

Edited by Niva Whyman