China looks to double trade

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao is expected to give some but take a lot during his three-day India trip, billed by his countrymen as a “significant event”.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao is expected to give some but take a lot during his three-day India trip, billed by his countrymen as a “significant event”.

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Although the dragon wants to kiss and make up on issues, such as stapled Chinese visas for residents of Jammu and Kashmir and India’s bid for permanent membership in the UNSC, what the sixth Chinese Premier will target during his second India visit – his first visit was in April 2005 – is opening up of a window for Chinese companies.

If the $60-billion bilateral trade target set for this year is achieved, China will become India’s biggest partner. The two countries are planning to almost double the target to $100 billion in 5 years.

The former geologist and engineer — the leading figure behind China's economic policy shift — will lead 400 businessmen, one of the largest ever business team ever travelled with a Chinese head of state to India.