In 1978 China embarked upon its journey of economic reform and opening up, and ever since its economy has exhibited unprecedented dynamism and vit.ality. In less than 40 years, China has transformed itself from an impoverished third-world country playing a minor role in the global economy into the world's second-largest economy, biggest t.rader in goods and top manufacturing powerhouse. With such awe-inspiring achievements, China's economy today is rising on the horizon, with unlimited prospects ahead.