Chinese officials detailed transformative progress in the Yangtze River Economic Belt during a press conference on January 5, 2026, marking ten years since the launch of this strategic development initiative. Spanning 11 provinces and municipalities, the economic corridor accounts for over 40% of the Chinese mainland's population and GDP.
Key achievements highlighted include:
A 68% reduction in industrial pollution along the Yangtze's mainstem since 2016
GDP growth averaging 6.2% annually across the region
Establishment of 32 cross-provincial ecological protection zones
Officials emphasized the 'dual focus' on environmental restoration and high-quality development, with new smart manufacturing hubs in Wuhan and Chongqing attracting $12 billion in overseas investment this year. The conference also previewed upcoming initiatives to enhance shipping capacity and develop green energy infrastructure along Asia's longest river.
