Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Wednesday stressed the importance of acting on the series of measures introduced to help the SARS-hit service sector.

Wen told a meeting of the State Council that government at various levels should guarantee the smooth implementation of already-released policies, such as tax-relief to help enterprise get through the difficulties by SARS.

In addition to those steps already taken, the government is also considering a series of other measures aimed at assisting small firms.

Support for badly hit industries such as civil aviation, tourism, catering and taxis should be another priority, said Wen.

He also emphasized the importance of getting welfare benefits, including minimum wages to migrant farmers, laid-off workers, and urban and rural people hit by absolute poverty.

Wen said the outbreak of SARS had already greatly impacted on the country's short-term economic growth and it is essential for the nation to keep losses to a minimum.

New engines for consumption and economic development should be cultivated. Industries such as automobiles sales and manufacturing, real estate, telecommunications and Internet-related business are all key areas.

To increase overseas confidence exported products should be effectively quarantined, said Wen. He also called for greater support for exports of electro-mechanical, high-tech and textile products.

Other areas highlighted by Wen were those of telecommunications, electric power, transportation, water and gas supplies, banking and the stock market particularly as normal life and social activities were beginning to return to normal.

Editor: Liao Ming