Jul 26, 2004. /Lesprom Network/. Chinese government intends to increase forestries from 16.55% to 19% of the total territory by 2010, Xinhua news agency reported. By 2020 forestries are expected to increase to 23%, by 2050 – to 26%. As a result of fast economic growth Chinese forestries decreased. Within the last 50 years forestry resources consumption was 8.6 billion cub m, timber production for building purposes was 5 billion cub m. In June 2003 the government decided to boost the planting of forests after facing the threats of floods, draughts and deserting caused by timber felling. In 2003 Chinese authorities spend $5.2 billion on reforestation. In 2004 the expenses are expected to reach $5.3 billion, while only $2.9 million were spent on reforestation during 1949-1999.