The total export value of the Guangdong city of Zhanjiang rose to 3.83 billion yuan ($590.97 million) in the first quarter this year, with a steady growth rate of 2.9 percent compared to the same period last year, according to the city's customs office on April 21.

Of the total export value, general trade export accounted for approximately 90 percent, increasing by 7.1 percent year on year to 3.42 billion yuan.

In the first three months of the year, local private enterprises in Zhanjiang became the major contributor to total exports bringing in 2.12 billion yuan, up 13.2 percent compared to the same period a year ago.

Exports to ASEAN, US, EU and Africa also saw a jump of 45.7 percent, hitting 990 million yuan from January to March this year.

Furniture exports, one of the main composers of the total export products, surged to 1.46 billion yuan, rising by 15 percent compared to the same period last year. Mechanical and electrical products increased one percent in the first quarter.

Established in 1950, the Zhanjiang Port has now become an international transportation hub in South China, having business connections with 100-plus countries and regions. [Photo/yinsha.com]