China's economy has grown rapidly in the past few decades, becoming a major player in global trade and lifting millions out of poverty. Special economic zones and industrial clusters have played a key role in driving this growth. China's GDP has been increasing at a rate of over 9% annually, with exports growing by 13% each year. By 2010, China is expected to surpass Japan as the world's second-largest economy. The country's success in reducing poverty and becoming a global economic leader is truly remarkable.