Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China has reported remarkable economic growth, positioning itself as a pivotal hub in the nation’s opening-up efforts. Erkin Tuniyaz, chairman of the regional government, announced on Tuesday that Xinjiang’s GDP, investment, consumption, import and export, fiscal revenue, and resident income levels have all ranked among the top five nationwide since last year.
Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing, Tuniyaz highlighted that “2023 marked the best year in terms of the quality and efficiency of economic and social development in Xinjiang in recent years.” The region has been committed to expanding high-level domestic and international openness, striving to become a significant corridor linking Asia and Europe and serving as a gateway for China’s western opening-up.
Over the past two years, Xinjiang’s total import and export volumes have surged by 57 percent and 45.9 percent, respectively. This substantial increase underscores the region’s growing role in global trade and its strategic importance in the Belt and Road Initiative.
Xinjiang is actively building a modern industrial system, leveraging its abundant resources and strong industrial foundation. The region is accelerating the development of major industrial clusters, including oil and gas, coal and coal-fired power generation, coal chemical industry, green mining, and strategic emerging industries. The integrated development of primary, secondary, and tertiary industries is progressively improving, fostering sustainable economic growth.
The chairman emphasized Xinjiang’s role as a strategic base for China’s energy and resource security, as well as a crucial supply base for high-quality agricultural and pastoral products nationwide. These developments are not only enhancing the region’s economic stature but also contributing to national priorities.
In the first quarter of 2024, Xinjiang’s GDP grew by 5.6 percent year on year. The value-added industrial output of enterprises above the designated size increased by 8 percent, while foreign trade volume expanded by 42.7 percent. These indicators exceeded expectations, signaling a promising start to 2024 and reinforcing Xinjiang’s trajectory of robust growth.
With these achievements, Xinjiang is poised to play an increasingly significant role in China’s economic landscape and its connectivity with global markets.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
