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BEIJING, June 26-- China once again shortened its negative list naming sectors that are off-limits to foreign investors in its steadfast opening-up moves, injecting certainty into an uncertain global economic environment. The new list saw a reduction in number of sectors in which foreign investment is not allowed from 40 to 33. China has shortened the list for four consecutive years. It underlines China's image as a staunch supporter of globalization and free trade even when the world economy is severely impacted by COVID-19. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, global foreign direct investment flows are forecast to decrease by up to 40 percent in 2020 due to the pandemic. Hit by the epidemic, foreign direct investment into the Chinese mainland fell 10.8 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2020. While sentiment on investment liberalization in many parts of the world has faded, China does not erect walls of protectionism, but resorts to further reform and opening up, strengthening confidence and policy consistency in a year of tumult and volatility. The new list is expected to improve business environment in China, draw more multinational companies from all over the world to invest in the country more efficiently, promote the gradual stabilization of global trade and investment, thus helping offset the negative impacts of the epidemic and enhancing economic vitality. It is in the interests of China and the rest of the world. | 
