In September 2023, a pivotal meeting emphasized the urgent need to promote the full revitalization of northeast China in the new era. Central to this strategy is the intensification of ecological resource conservation and utilization. By harnessing the region's strengths in ecological and biological resources, northeast China aims to develop modern biology, big data, and other emerging industries with distinctive characteristics.
Among these emerging sectors, the ice and snow economy stands out as a promising new engine for economic growth. Traditionally known as the \"eldest son of the People's Republic of China\" for its robust support during the early years post-establishment, northeast China has faced challenges in recent decades. Since the onset of reform and opening-up in the 1980s and China's accession to the WTO in 2001, the region has struggled to capture strategic opportunities, resulting in a gradual lag behind the southeastern coastal provinces in economic development.
Despite these challenges, recent years have seen a strong push to develop the ice and snow economy, although it has yet to scale significantly. By fully leveraging its ecological endowments and tapping into ice and snow resources, northeast China seeks to unlock its industrial dividends and accelerate its revitalization strategy. This approach not only aims to rejuvenate the region's economy but also positions northeast China as a key player in emerging global markets.
