President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need to systematically study and implement Yiwu's development strategies, describing the Zhejiang city's transformation as a blueprint for regional economic growth. In a recent directive, the Chinese leader highlighted how Yiwu's evolution from local marketplace to global trade hub demonstrates the effectiveness of localized development policies.
"Yiwu's journey from small commodity trading to becoming the world's supermarket offers valuable lessons for county-level economies," Xi stated, urging Party members to incorporate these insights into ongoing governance training programs. The city currently hosts 1.26 million registered businesses and maintains trade relationships with over 230 countries and regions.
With 2025 export values leading all Chinese county-level administrations, Yiwu's model emphasizes leveraging unique regional advantages – an approach Xi wants replicated nationwide. Analysts suggest this directive could reshape local economic strategies ahead of key development milestones in the 2026-2030 Five-Year Plan period.
The Yiwu International Trade Market, spanning 5.5 million square meters, continues to serve as both economic engine and cultural bridge, recently expanding its digital trade platforms to accommodate evolving global supply chain demands.
