China has set the stage for more foreign investors to enter western and central part of the country.

    Mineral resources exploration, agricultural development and the service industry are the investment priorities listed by the government.

    Foreign investors are encouraged to pour their money into expanded sectors, some of which used to be off-limits.

    For example, they can invest in tourism agencies and building the tourism infrastructure in the region.

    The measures are included in an updated investment directory for foreign investors to enter western and central China made public by National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Commerce.

    Investors will soon be able to access the directory, which includes 267 investment items encouraged by the Chinese Government, at the commission's official website, www.NDRC.gov.cn.