Meanwhile, the country's foreign trade is estimated to grow 24.5 per cent year-on-year this year to US$1.77 trillion, according to a report on China's autumn foreign trade, jointly drafted by the ministry and the Chinese Academy of International Trade & Economic Co-operation.

Total exports this year are estimated at US$960 billion, a rise of 26 per cent year-on-year, while imports are expected to surge 22 per cent to reach US$810 billion.

Dramatic increases were seen in the exports of machinery and electric products and high-tech products during the past months.

Imports of primary products grew quickly this year as a result of robust domestic demand and high prices in the international markets.

Imports and exports of general trade grew at 25.3 per cent year-on-year to US$547.2 billion in the first three quarters while processing trade grew at 21.8 per cent to US$596.2 billion.

However, China's foreign trade growth could see a slowdown next year, increasing by about 15 per cent year-on-year to US$2 trillion, the report predicted.

The trade surplus is likely to continue in the coming years, said Li Yushi, a research fellow with the academy.

"China's trade surplus, which has aroused much concern since last year, mainly results from the world manufacturing industry's transfer to China," he said. "China has been regarded by most multinationals as a vital link in their international production chain."