Tianjin was an international trading port for China in the early years, and as a large commercial city its trading reputation over the past 100 years has made it well known worldwide. As the largest bulk goods trading port in northern China and one of the first groups of coastal cities opened to the world, it has been active in engaging foreign trade.

It has established trade relations and marine links with more than 300 seaports in over 160 countries and regions around the world. Garments, textiles, machinery and electronic products are the main export items, and the import of large quantities of commodities has enriched the domestic market. Prosperous trade has promoted economic development and has drawn the attention on numerous investors. Tianjin has become a city for investment and trade.

By the end of 1999, the number of overseas-invested enterprises approved by the Tianjin Municipal Government had reached 12,989,with contractual investment of US$ 26.7 billion, and actual investment so far of US$13.3 billion. The total volume for import/exports in 1999 was US$ 12.6 billion, of which US$ 6.2 billion was for imports and US$6.332 billion for export.