Since adopting the reform and opening-up policy in 1978, China has embarked on a remarkable journey toward modernization and common prosperity. A shining example of this progress is the city of Jinjiang in Fujian Province, southeast China.
Before 1978, Jinjiang was an impoverished agricultural county with scarce land and resources. However, leveraging its position as a hub for overseas Chinese, Jinjiang embraced reform and set out on a unique path to industrialization, urbanization, and modernization. This journey has come to be known as the “Jinjiang experience” of county-level modernization.
Over the past 40 years, Jinjiang has prioritized manufacturing, continuously driving economic transformation and upgrading. The city has crafted the “Made in China” gold standard, with the clothing brand Septwolves serving as a prime example. Beginning as a small garment factory with only a few dozen workers, Septwolves has grown into a household name and a publicly listed company. This success is largely attributed to government policies encouraging enterprise innovation, guiding businesses to implement brand strategies, restructure for public listing, establish modern corporate governance systems, and enter the capital market.
In 2023, Jinjiang’s private economy surpassed 800 billion yuan (around $110 billion) in output value. The city is now home to over 90,000 enterprises, 51 listed companies, and 16 government-recognized brands. This economic boom has given rise to globally recognized independent brands, earning Jinjiang titles such as “brand capital” and “fashion city.” It stands today as one of the most economically developed counties in the Chinese mainland.
These achievements reflect China’s broader efforts to pursue social reforms, promote employment and entrepreneurship, narrow the wealth gap, and establish the world’s largest social security system. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 2012, China has made significant strides toward economic development and long-term social stability. Jinjiang’s transformation exemplifies the milestones of modernization with Chinese characteristics and lays a solid social foundation for achieving common prosperity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
