China's Minister of State Development and Reform Ma Kai said on Monday that economic growth should be 8.5 per cent this year and above 7.2 per cent in 2004.

"Gross domestic product growth is expected to be 8.5 per cent this year," Ma Kai told Reuters after a press briefing here. "GDP next year is estimated to be higher than the 7.2 per cent target set by China's five-year plan."

Vice Commerce Minister Ma Xiuhong said that China could boost imports of U.S. soybeans and wheat and may send a delegation to the United States in mid-December to discuss the notion if prices are favorable.

"We might increase imports of soybean and wheat," Ma Xiuhong told Reuters, adding that China may send a delegation to the United States on Dec. 15 or 16 "if the price is correct."

Close

Today's Top News		Top Business News
+Export increase key to cutting trade deficit ( 2003-12-09) +Moon probe to blast off in 3 years ( 2003-12-08) +Premier Wen urges stronger US ties ( 2003-12-09) +Defensive referendum manipulates democracy ( 2003-12-08) +In the hiring line ( 2003-12-09)		+China sees higher growth, mulls U.S. deal ( 2003-12-09) +Exchange rate not factor in U.S. trade deficit - China ( 2003-12-09) +Snow: Encouraged by China currency steps ( 2003-12-09) +Autodesk sees 30% rise in software sales ( 2003-12-09) +BEA hopes to loan RMB to mainland companies ( 2003-12-09)