Expert sees import boom coming

A boom in imports from countries and regions related to the Belt and Road Initiative is expected in China this year, and the country's investment in these destinations will likely grow, a former vice-minister of commerce said.

China will likely import more high-quality agricultural and industrial products, cutting-edge technologies, and luxury goods from these regions, said Wei Jianguo.

His expectation is based on an evaluation of mutual benefits that all sides stand to derive from the initiative.