China's key stock index rises 0.76%

BEIJING - Chinese shares extended a three-day winning streak with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index up 0.76 percent to end at 2,391.08 points on Thursday, the highest level in nearly 20 months.

The gains came after China's cabinet announced new measures late Wednesday to boost domestic consumption in the six major fields of information-related products (such as mobile Internet); green and energy-saving products; housing; tourism and leisure; education; and elderly care.

The Shenzhen Component Index on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange closed flat at 8,090.55 on Thursday. The combined turnover of the two bourses stood at 437.26 billion yuan ($71.15 billion), down from 457.26 billion yuan the previous trading day.

The railway infrastructure and electricity sectors led gains with Guangshen Railway Co Ltd and China Railway Group Ltd, both increased by the daily limit of 10 percent.

Shares in GD Power Development Co Ltd, also rose 10 percent to close at 2.83 yuan apiece.

Renewed optimism lifts equities	China shares close at highest since December