Closer ties between Burma and China?s southwestern province raise concerns in Beijing... Yunnan, China?s southwestern province bordering Burma, has always taken the lead in forging closer relations with its neighbor, usually with Beijing?s blessing. But in recent years, this special relationship has caused some irritation among China?s political leaders in the north...The Yunnan authorities understand that protecting the growing trade with their neighbor is extremely important to the province?s long-term economic future. The provincial government recently drew up detailed plans to further promote border trade with Burma. This has included favorable customs and visa procedures, and streamlined bureaucracy. But there are fears that because of the low level of trade, there may be central government interference in the future...While Beijing may not be concerned about the official trade between the province and Burma, the central government there is more concerned about the unofficial and illegal trade that is taking place, in the form of drugs, timber, wildlife and human trafficking..."