Subsidies for appliances to expire

Subsidies for five categories of energy-saving household electrical appliances will end from June, sources said.

"Air conditioners, flat-panel television sets, refrigerators, washing machines and hot water heaters will no longer be subsidized in June 2013," said an online announcement on the official website of the Ministry of Finance dated on Monday.

In an attempt to drive domestic demand and promote wider use of green appliances, the State Council decided to provide subsidies since June 2012. Consumers can get subsidies ranging from 70 yuan ($11.3) to 550 yuan when purchasing these appliances.