The State Council on Wednesday approved a blueprint for the development of China's strategic emerging industries during the 12th Five-Year Plan (2011-15), highlighting the importance of these sectors as new economic growth drivers.

Strategic emerging industries are classified as environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient, next-generation information technology, bio-engineering, high-end equipment manufacturing, alternative energy, alternative materials and alternative-energy vehicles.

"The boom of strategic emerging industries is important for maintaining sustainable and smooth growth when the economy faces increasing downward pressure," according to a statement by an executive meeting of the cabinet hosted by Premier Wen Jiabao, which was posted on the central government website.

Under the plan, China aims to increase the share of these industries' total added value in its GDP to about 8 percent by 2015 and 15 percent by 2020, from 3 percent in 2010.

"The strategic emerging industries will become much stronger in propelling the country's industrial upgrading ... and in expanding employment opportunities," said Zhang Xiaoqiang, deputy director of the National Development and Reform Commission.

The plan establishes a general direction and mission for each sector, as well as identifying 20 major projects to be undertaken.

According to the statement from the meeting, spurring the sound development of emerging industries means letting the market allocate resources under an optimized policy environment.

The statement also said these industries should increase their capacity for independent innovation and strengthen international cooperation.

Wei Tian