Kaifeng depicts high-quality development -Along the River During the Qingming Festival– Ancient charm and new style blend in, economic and cultural comparison

On October 25, during a press conference held by the Henan Provincial Publicity Department, Kaifeng’s Mayor Wu Haiyan revealed several impressive statistics about the city’s development. The government is focusing on building three major industry chains, with a comprehensive revenue from cultural and tourism sectors reaching 61.89 billion yuan in the first three quarters of this year. Additionally, Kaifeng has led the province in foreign trade growth for eight consecutive months.

As one of China’s ancient capitals, Kaifeng, which boasts a rich history, faces the challenge of harmoniously blending historical charm with modern innovation while promoting both economic and cultural growth.

Mayor Wu shared that “we are prioritizing the high-quality development of the manufacturing industry and are concentrating on establishing three trillion-yuan industrial chains: automotive manufacturing, new chemical materials, and modern food production. We are also vigorously developing new forms of productivity.”

During her presentation, Wu highlighted Kaifeng’s initiatives in the automotive sector, emphasizing the creation of three major automotive parts production bases. The city currently has 47 registered automotive and parts companies. Notably, Chery Automobile, which has been operating in Kaifeng for 14 years, achieved a production value of 19.1 billion yuan in 2023, with expectations to reach 26 billion yuan this year. Kaifeng also hosts the province’s only development zone focused on fine chemicals, boasting five main product lines that include chlor-alkali, coal chemicals, specialty chemical additives, phosgene, and pharmaceuticals. These lead the nation in producing certain materials used in rubber and plastic products.

Regarding the integration of culture and tourism, Wu elaborated on the city’s approach to creating a shared cultural experience, stating that they are working on a Song Dynasty-themed park that emphasizes immersive experiences and younger consumer engagement. Kaifeng is also actively restoring its ancient city, undertaking significant archaeological projects at sites like the Shuntian Gate and the Bianhe River, and has successfully connected the ancient city walls and waterways to enhance tourism.

Wu pointed out that cultural performances themed around the Song Dynasty, such as “Dream of the Great Song Dynasty,” have become exemplary models for cultural and tourism integration across the nation. She reported that in the first three quarters of this year, Kaifeng welcomed 87.82 million visitors, a 5.6% increase, generating 61.89 billion yuan in cultural and tourism revenue, up by 13.1%. Attractions like Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden and Wansui Mountain Wuxia City have emerged as top destinations in the province.

In terms of economic development, Kaifeng is making strides in its integration within the Zhengzhou metropolitan area and is actively supporting innovative reforms in the Kaifeng section of the free trade zone. The city has launched 220 reform initiatives, with 53 being promoted nationally and provincially, marking significant progress in commercial reforms.

Furthermore, Wu noted that Kaifeng has established a comprehensive bonded zone, a national cultural export base, and an international art bonded warehouse. With 17 overseas warehouses located in countries like the UAE and Germany, the development of Kaifeng International Dry Port is accelerating. Currently, there are 7,074 enterprises operating in the Kaifeng free trade zone, a remarkable increase from pre-establishment levels. On average, a Chery car departs Kaifeng every eight minutes, contributing to an ongoing surge in the city’s foreign trade growth.

“Kaifeng is not only renowned for its history but also shines in its modern advancements,” Wu concluded, emphasizing the city’s commitment to becoming a pioneer in the practice of Chinese-style modernization and to sketching a vibrant picture of high-quality development in the new era.