Chinese companies need to be more environmentally conscious and socially responsible when investing overseas, the Ministry of Commerce said today.
It released a guide on environmental protection overseas and it is based on past experiences and international norms to ensure sustainable development in targeted markets and a better image of Chinese companies abroad.
The guide was co-produced by the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Environmental Protection.
China's overseas investment surged at an average annual growth rate of 44 percent between 2008 and 2011. Last year, Chinese companies invested a record US$26.8 billion in overseas markets through mergers and acquisitions, the commerce ministry said.
The guide gives instructions on voluntary protection of the environment in targeted markets, observation of local rules concerning the environment, as well as respect for religion, customs and employees' legal rights.