The Qiantang River flows through Hangzhou. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

Hangzhou maintained steady foreign trade growth in the first three quarters of the year, according to figures recently released by the local customs office.

Imports and exports in the first three quarters reached 401.9 billion yuan ($56.93 billion), a year-on-year increase of 3.4 percent, accounting for 17.9 percent of the total in Zhejiang province.

Hangzhou's trade with countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative also saw a notable increase over the period.

The city is now working to stabilize its foreign trade and investment. A municipal meeting was convened on Oct 24 in which participants discussed how to reach fourth quarter growth targets. 

While working to improve foreign trade, Hangzhou is also striving to develop new growth drivers from within.