Burma’s foreign trade topped US$7 billion in the first quarter of 2013, representing a 15 percent increase compared to the same period last year, Democratic Voice of Burma reports. The increase is caused by a strong growth in imports, which rose to $3.9 billion, up from about $3 billion in the first quarter of 2012. Burma’s export saw no growth and remains valued at about $3.1 billion. A Minister of Commerce advisor said the rise in imports was necessary in order to build up the country after years of international isolation. Foreign trade is expected to reach about $25 billion this year.