Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region — In a remarkable achievement against challenging plateau conditions, the per capita disposable income of rural residents in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region surged in 2024, nearing the national average.
According to Li Jianshu, deputy head of the Xizang survey team at the National Bureau of Statistics, the per capita disposable income of rural residents reached 21,578 yuan (approximately $3,010) in 2024. This figure represents 93.3 percent of the national average, marking an 8.3-percent increase from the previous year and outpacing the national growth rate by 1.7 percentage points.
\"This substantial growth reflects the effectiveness of targeted economic policies and infrastructure development in the region,\" Li stated at a press conference held during the annual session of the regional people's congress, which concluded on Wednesday.
Urban residents also witnessed significant income growth. The per capita disposable income of urban residents climbed to 55,444 yuan, up 6.8 percent from the previous year and exceeding the national average growth rate by 2.2 percentage points.
Overall, the per capita disposable income of all residents in Xizang surged by 8.2 percent to 31,358 yuan. This growth rate, the highest among China's provincial-level areas, surpassed the national average by 2.9 percentage points.
Once burdened by high altitude, harsh environments, poor transportation, and limited resources, the mountain-locked region of Xizang was previously the only provincial-level contiguous poverty-stricken area in China. By the end of 2019, however, Xizang achieved a historic feat by eradicating absolute poverty, lifting 628,000 people out of impoverishment.
The dramatic increase in income is attributed to the region's dedicated efforts in infrastructure development, a booming tourism market, and the accelerated growth of various industries. These advancements have significantly improved the income structure of Xizang's residents, enhancing their living standards and contributing to the region's overall economic vitality.
The regional government's focus on sustainable development and poverty alleviation has not only transformed the economic landscape of Xizang but also set a precedent for other regions with challenging geographical conditions.
\"The progress we've made is a testament to the resilience and hard work of the people of Xizang,\" Li remarked. \"We will continue to implement strategies that promote inclusive growth and ensure that the benefits of development reach every corner of the region.\"
The success story of Xizang serves as an inspiring example of how targeted policies and community engagement can drive substantial economic growth, even in the most challenging environments.
Reference(s):
Per capita income in rural Xizang nears national level in 2024
cgtn.com
