Trade freedom

China firmly supports free trade, which will not only promote world economic growth, but also improve people's livelihoods.

Moves by some countries to shore up exports are understandable, but it is still irrational to devalue currencies to stimulate exports while at the same time pushing for currency appreciation of other countries. This is obviously trade protectionism.

As the side effects of the financial crisis take hold, trade protectionism is increasing instead of abating, a development that deserves attention from all nations.

As proof of its support to global trade, China sent purchasing groups to the European Union and the United States last year and will also launch new measures this year to increase imports.

In addition, China will double its efforts to make balanced international payments and propel free trade, a driving force for the global economic recovery.

At present, the most important task is to push forward the Doha round talks and create a fair and balanced trade environment. The United States and EU should recognize China's status as a market economy and lift bans on hi-tech exports to China.

Processing trade accounts for half of China's massive trade volume, and exports from foreign businesses in China and Chinese-foreign joint ventures in China account for 60 percent. So any country that imposes restriction on China will eventually hurt its own business.