参考译文

　　Today one of the most important factors that affect international competition is market size. A country with a larger market holds greater appeal and is more likely to take a leading position. With 1.4 billion people, China is the world’s largest consumer market. And economists say that the growth rate of the Chinese market has been the fastest in the world over recent years.

　　China has been the world’s largest automobile market for nine consecutive years. In 2016, its car sales were 24 million, compared to 17 million in the United States, and most of the sales came from US joint ventures in the country. Also, China is the world’s largest market in smart phones, apparel, e-commerce, domestic tourism and agricultural products. More importantly, the Chinese market possesses impressive development potential. In China, the middle class and affluent population are expanding rapidly; young people have new consumption habits; and, online and offline sales channels cover the entire country. In addition, the development of the health care and old-age industries will continue to boost the spending power of Chinese residents.