The customs revenue in 2003 will reach 338 billion yuan (US$40.8 billion), 103.8 billion yuan more than last year, and growth is mainly pulled up by soaring foreign trade volume, said Liu Wenjie, vice minister of the General Administration of Customs.

He made the remarks at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on October 9.

According to Liu, foreign trade volume in the first 11 months rose sharply compared with the same period last year. Export reached US$370.6 billion, up 39.1 percent.

In addition, customs administration strengthened tax collection, smuggling strike and anti-fraud works to ensure the increase of customs revenue.

In recent years, the average tariff rate has been slashed after China's entry into the WTO and further opening up. However, Liu noted that customs revenue will continue rising following China's investment environment, economic environment as well as foreign trade sector improvements.

At the press conference, Liu also introduced the Regulations of People's Republic of China on Export and Import Duties, which will take effect from January 1st, 2004. The conference was chaired by Wang Guoqing, vice director of the State Council Information Office.

(China.org.cn by Tang Fuchun and Daragh Moller, December 9, 2003)