In 2006, the national economy maintained steady and fast growth. The economic and social development made a good start for the implementation of the llth 'Five-Year-Plan'. According to National Bureau of Statistics, the output of cotton reached 6.73 million tons in 2006, up by 17.8%compared to 2005. The yarn output in 2006 was 17.4 million tons, with a rise of 20% compared to last year.