The economy of China's western region is expected to grow by 13 percent this year, higher than the nation's average, said the Western Blue Book 2011 published on July 24.

The book, China's first evaluative report on the economic quality of the western region, reviewed and analyzed economic growth in western areas since the implementation of the country's strategy on the development of western regions in 2000.

It said local economies in China's western regions have been developing rapidly and the living standards of local residents have greatly increased over the past 11 years.

The book also summarized the main obstacles barring economic growth in west China and suggested several policy changes and additions in accordance with the problems facing west China's economies.