The resource-rich Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in south China has benefited greatly from its trade with Macao, which will return to the motherland on December 20.

Guangxi's trade with Macao reached 269 million US dollars by the end of last year, while Macao entrepreneurs set up 198 companies in the region. Last year, their direct investment in Guangxi reached 14 million US dollars.

The region, which borders Guangdong Province, has connections with Macao both geographically and from a long history of mutually beneficial trading.

Although economically backward, Guangxi has rich agricultural and forestry resources and its charm gives it potential for tourist development. The region's popular exports to Macao range from livestock, sugar and fruit to textiles, handicrafts, cement, and fireworks. (Xinhua)