Foreign trade is booming in the Tibet Autonomous Region in
southwest China thanks to more local emphasis on expanding trade,
attracting investment and enhancing economic cooperation with
overseas partners.
In
1951, the year marking Tibet's peaceful liberation, the autonomous
region had practically no foreign trade. Men and cattle were the
only means of transport to carry goods from one place to
another.
Tibet has stepped up with reforms in recent years by fully
exploiting its resources and expanding trade.
Today, the autonomous region is exchanging commodities with 26
countries and regions, including machinery and electric products,
chemicals, petroleum, communication facilities and medical
equipment.
Traditional border trade with India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, and
Myanmar has also maintained upward momentum. Last year, Tibet's
trade with these neighboring countries totaled US$98.08 million, up
47.42 percent year-on-year.
(
Xinhua News
Agency 10/04/2001)