A green opportunity not only for China

China's shrinking import of cars may have disappointed foreign manufacturers who are struggling to cope with the ongoing global crisis. But a close look at the mix of its auto import finds that it may actually be a blessing in disguise for the world economy in search of a strong and sustainable recovery.

Latest customs statistics show that China's automobile imports dropped by more than 30 percent year on year in the first six months of 2009 while pent-up demand has tremendously driven up domestic sales to the surprise of all.

In 2008, China's auto sales grew only 6.7 percent from the previous years to 9.38 million units. It was the first time, since 1999, that growth in the industry fell below 10 percent.