Steely expression

By banning new steel projects before the end of 2011, the government is trying to drive home the message that its patience is wearing thin with the industry's slow progress in energy conservation and emission reduction.

This is a much-needed warning for steel makers who are still engaged in "blind investment" and "repetitive construction".

As a big energy consumer and greenhouse gas emitter, the steel industry is supposed to contribute significantly to China's efforts to raise energy efficiency and cut emissions through aggressive restructuring.