The influence of Chinese literature works is growing, but translation is still a big obstacle in its overseas promotion, especially in Europe, according to the International Herald Tribune Timeline.

In the 10 years after 1995, China imported 10 books every year, mainly from European countries and US and exported one to east and south Asia. In 2006, the import and export rate changed to 7:1.

The reason for the rate is the low quality of translation. Since Chinese and languages in western countries are totally different in terms of vocabulary and syntax, the duration and cost for precise translations are an obstacle for publishers.

(CRI.com November 21, 2006)