The total import and export value of Zhanjiang was recorded at 6.93 billion yuan ($1.1 billion) in the first three months of this year, with steel and paper products emerging as new driving forces.

In the first quarter, general trade was 5.61 billion yuan, 80.9 percent of the city's total foreign trade value. Local private enterprises contributed 3.2 billion yuan, accounting for more than 40 percent.

The main export markets of Zhanjiang are the United States, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union (EU). The major exports are aquatic products and furniture.

Zhanjiang has built a modern industrial system revolving around steel, petrochemicals and papermaking. These three sectors are creating new growth poles by converting imported raw materials into exportable manufactured goods.

Due to policy support in foreign trade and streamlined customs clearance procedures, the overall trend of foreign trade in Zhanjiang is rather positive, according to a Zhanjiang official.