The economy in Tibet has progressed significantly over the past 50 years. Tibet is fast on its way toward a modern market economy after having thoroughly abandoned the former closed, natural economy.

The region's GDP reached 11.746 billion yuan (1.42 billion U.S.dollars) in 2000, twice as much as in 1995 and over 30 times as much as in the pre-peaceful liberation period.

Modern industry, having grown from nothing, has gradually become an important pillar of the fast economic development in Tibet. The modern industrial system with Tibetan characteristics has cultivated some nationally famous brand names.

In 2000, the region's total grain output reached 962,200 tons, and the total amount of livestock numbered 22.66 million head. Self-sufficiency in grains and edible oils had been basically realized. The distribution of meat and milk per capita had surpassed that of the national average.

People from all ethnic groups in the region have basically shaken off poverty and had enough to eat and wear. Some are even living a better-off life.

The white paper says that the reform and opening-up have shortened the distance between Tibet and the rest of the country as well as other parts of the world. In 2000, Tibet scored 130 million U.S. dollars of imports and exports trade volume.

The unique natural views and cultural points of interest in Tibet have attracted numerous tourists from both at home and abroad. In 2000, Tibet received some 600,000 tourists and earned adirect income of 780 million yuan (94 million U.S. dollars).