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)