Li Zhongzhou remarked that: "Curbing pollution caused by manufacturing, improving water quality, using more renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency are recognized priorities at the highest level of the Chinese government. The development of a more efficient international trade environment could actually accelerate such efforts by allowing the freer flow of sustainable technologies and services."

"Technologies for energy and environment applications already have a huge and growing market in China and one that European enterprises are well placed to develop, particularly in light of China's on-going government procurement reforms," Bartley added.

Li explained that China's 11th Five-Year-Plan (2006-2010) "really demonstrated the depth of the government's commitment to building a harmonious, resource-saving society and of achieving a balance between economic growth, social equality and environmental protection. China has put in place ambitious targets in this regard."