Coal made up the bulk of that cargo — about 1.1 billion tons — up 17 percent year-on-year.

The province also saw a growth in the import of agricultural products, iron ore, mechanical and electronic products, and sawn timber.

The official said that the government will encourage central SOEs to conduct strategic cooperation in various ways.

Coal made up the bulk of that cargo — about 1.1 billion tons — up 17 percent year-on-year.

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The remarks came after the association reported weakening demand of steel materials and high prices of raw materials used in production like coking coals.

Lian also introduced development situations of Hebei during the conference.