CRI听力：Chinese Consumers Express Mixed Opinions about Levying Fuel Tax

Chinese consumers have expressed mixed opinions about a possible fuel tax reform from the government. Our reporter Shuang Feng takes a closer look.

Reporter:
Zhang Ping, chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, said the fuel tax will reduce users' costs compared with the current charges for road maintenance and management.

But some people argue that as frequent car users, they will shoulder even heavier financial burden. A citizen in south China's city of Shenzhen comments:

"Levying fuel taxes will have a big impact on us. We have to frequently use cars to do business within the Pearl River Delta region. Therefore, we will spend more on fuel. I think the government should first cut the oil price before imposing fuel tax."

But another car owner disagrees:
"In my opinion, levying fuel taxes is a trend of the times. It will be a fair policy for car users."

An online survey by China's leading website Sina.com shows 60 percent of respondents are in favor of the introduction of a fuel tax.

As the tax will be imposed on the principle of "the more you use the car, the more you pay for the fuel," many potential car buyers have shifted their attention to smaller cars. (WWw.hxen.net)

"Previously, I planned to buy a car with a 1.6 or 1.5 liter engine. But now I will take the 1.0 or 1.3 into account."

Energy officials said the fuel reforms will convert various tolls and fees for water and road transport into fuel tax. They pointed out the reforms would contribute to save energy and reduce emission.

China currently imposes road tolls and maintenance taxes on the country's vehicles. The introduction of a fuel tax would put an end to this arrangement and could link domestic oil prices to those on the international market.

Shuang Feng, CRI news.