Eighteen of China's future science stars are experiencing the world-class research going on at British Columbia universities - and finding out why they should return here for graduate school, or to become entrepreneurs.

Led by strong gains to Asia and Europe, British Columbia's exports for the first half of 2011 are up by nearly 14 per cent compared with first six months of 2010.

Figures released by Statistics Canada show that B.C.'s international merchandise exports from January to June were worth $15.9 billion, compared with $14 billion last year.

Upgraded high-performance computing (HPC) systems with massive memory and exceptional speed are being launched at two British Columbia universities. This will give researchers the tools to solve problems that have previously been beyond their reach.

Penticton-area companies wanting to learn more about how to start or increase their overseas business can get first-hand tips from international trade experts visiting Okanagan communities.

The Province is bringing its nine trade and investment representatives, who work in seven countries around the world, to communities throughout B.C. where they will help businesses wanting to expand into overseas markets.