China to hike fuel prices to combat air pollution
政府提高燃料價格 應對空氣污染

In another bid to combat air pollution, policy makers in China are raising fuel prices. The National Development and Reform Commission said on Monday that it will increase both gasoline and diesel prices.

Gasoline and diesel prices that meet National "4" standards will be raised by 290 and 370 yuan per ton respectively while those that meet National "5" standards will see prices go up by 170 and 160 yuan per ton.

The price hikes will be gradually implemented in the following one to four years. In order to make sure the more vulnerable sectors such as agriculture and public transport, are not overly impacted by the price hike, some government subsidies will be introduced.

Regulators estimate that vehicle emissions make up around 20 to 30 percent of total pollutants in the air.