The Chinese government has banned Microsoft Corp's Windows 8 for government use as part of China's security measures and to promote products that are energy efficient.

The move by the Chinese government takes a strong blow on Microsoft Inc., which has already been hit by slumping sales in the country.

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Last week, the Central Government Procurement Center posted on its website saying the ban on the use of Windows 8 for government computers is a part of its effort to promote the use of energy-saving products.

The state-owned Xinhua News Agency said that the ban is aimed at ensuring the security of government computers after Microsoft ceased supporting the old Windows XP operating system, which is widely used in the country.

The news agency did not elaborate how the ban would ensure the security of government-owned computers or how it would support energy-saving products usage.

Microsoft did not give any statement regarding the report.

Microsoft ended its support for Windows XP last month. The 13 year-old-operating system was put to rest to pave way for the newer OS, which was seen to be more secured.

Without the company supporting the older version of the Microsoft OS, XP users are left vulnerable to hacking and viruses.

Data firm Canalys said in a statement that the decision of China to ban the use of Windows 8 would hinder Microsoft's move to push the desktop market of China to use the newer version replacing XP.

XP users make up 50 percent of the desktop market in China.

The ban on Windows 8 for government computers in China is expected to ultimately cripple the sales of Microsoft products in the country. According to the Associated Press, the Chinese government is the biggest paying client of Microsoft.

TagsWindows 8, Windows XP, Microsoft Inc, Steve Ballmer, Xinhua