QINGDAO would encourage the development of commodity markets in five categories this year, according to a plan recently issued by the city’s commerce department.

    The five markets include farm produce wholesale markets, and markets for farm produce, groceries, agricultural tools and a special market.

    The farm produce wholesale market was a key platform to promote the industry’s development and increase farmers’ income. Focus this year would concentrate on developing regional markets in five areas, including vegetables, fishery, animal husbandry, fruit and plants. The farm produce trading market would be upgraded this year. More big grocery markets could be built along Metro lines and some special markets for products such as kitchen appliances, lighting and home appliances could also be developed this year. The agricultural tool market would offer tools and facilities for farming and the development of large markets will be speeded up. The special market was to meet special demands in daily life, such as book stores and flea markets. More flea markets can be built in communities this year.

    (Wang Yuanyuan, He Jun)