The annual growth rate of population in Beijing will be controlled at about 1.4 percent; and the total number of residents will be controlled at around 18 mln by 2020. Of them 13.5 mln have household registration and outsiders who reside in Beijing for over half a year will amount to 4. 5 mln.

According to the "General City Planning for Beijing Municipality (2004-2020)", the number of residents in cities and townships will be controlled around 16 mln by 2020, representing 90 percent of Beijing's total residents.

The figure 18 mln is calculated on the basis of the current population of 14.56 mln. Water and ecological factors, prediction for job demands, and comprehensive growth rate are taken into account when calculating.