China's urbanization speed would slow down around 2013 after years of accelerated pace, said a report Wednesday released by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

China's urbanization rate in 2008 was 45.68 percent, and it would reach 47.93 percent to 53.37 percent around 2013, ending its acceleration in recent years, said Liu Xiahui, professor from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

He added that urbanization would raise prices for residents, which could lead to unsustainable economic development.

The government should play a critical role in controlling costs related to social security, administrative fees and housing prices, said professor Liu.