The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region celebrated its 70th anniversary with a grand gathering in Urumqi on Thursday, showcasing transformative development metrics that highlight its evolving role in China's growth story.
Regional GDP surged to over 2 trillion yuan ($281.4 billion) in 2024 – a 203-fold increase since 1955, maintaining an average annual growth rate of 8%. This economic leap mirrors infrastructure advancements: railway networks now span 9,234 km, while highways expanded from 8,820 km in 1955 to 231,900 km in 2024, connecting once-remote communities to national supply chains.
Demographic shifts tell another success story. Xinjiang's population grew from 4.78 million in 1953 to 25.85 million in 2020, with ethnic minority populations rising from 4.45 million to 14.93 million during the same period. These figures underscore improved living conditions and social stability in China's northwest frontier region.
Analysts note these developments position Xinjiang as a strategic hub for cross-border trade and energy corridors, particularly under China's Belt and Road Initiative. The growth metrics come amid intensified efforts to boost regional employment, cultural preservation, and sustainable resource management.
