Deep within Chengdu’s vibrant landscape lies Qingbaijiang. This district whispers tales of transformation and global connection. Qingbaijiang District wasn’t always the bustling hub you see today. Once, it was an industrial zone established in 1960. It was built for the Sichuan Chemical Company Limited and Chengdu Iron and Steel Factory.
These enterprises were crucial. They transformed the region into an industrial powerhouse. Synthetic ammonia and steel production marked milestones in Sichuan’s history. Imagine the groundbreaking ceremony on September 1, 1956. It marked the start of Sichuan Chemical Company’s main project. Less than two years later, it was operational. This rewrote Sichuan’s history by introducing nitrogen fertilizer.
Then, picture August 1, 1958. Construction began on the Chengdu Iron and Steel Factory. It achieved iron production in 45 days. Steel production followed in 108 days and steel rolling in 181 days. This ended the Chengdu plain’s reliance on other regions for steel. Qingbaijiang shouldered the national mission. It built Southwest China’s first industrial zone. This was achieved through “chemical industry” and “iron and steel”.
Now, fast forward to today. Qingbaijiang stands as a crucial node in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The Chengdu International Railway Port is located here. It spans over 31 square kilometers. It connects Chengdu to over 110 cities globally.
Consider this: Qingbaijiang is Sichuan’s only railway freight-oriented national port open to the outside world. It handles imports like vehicles, meat, and grain. This solidifies its role in China’s trade strategy. The port focuses on international supply chain, trade, and intelligent manufacturing. This has attracted significant investment. Nearly 200 major projects are worth over RMB 100 billion. SF Express, Yuhu, Hema Fresh, and TCL are among the investors.
Notice the Chengdu-Eurasia National Commodity Pavilion. It is at the heart of the Chengdu International Railway Port. This pavilion showcases goods and cultural artifacts. They come from countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. The pavilion covers 107 mu with a building area of approximately 34,000 square meters. It features 34 national pavilions including Italy, France, Netherlands, and Greece. The Chengdu-Eurasia National Commodity Pavilion is a cultural and trade hub. It fosters deeper cultural ties between Chengdu and other countries.
In April 2017, the Qingbaijiang area became part of the Sichuan Pilot Free Trade Zone. It became a national “experimental field” for economic reforms. Since then, Qingbaijiang has implemented over 80 reforms. Many have set nationwide benchmarks.
Consider the numbers. Qingbaijiang’s GDP has increased nearly 2,800 times since its establishment. It rose from 19 million Yuan to 52.6 billion Yuan in 2019. The total investment in fixed assets has grown over 1,200 times. It reached 36.18 billion Yuan in 2019.
Qingbaijiang has transformed into a “Tianfu gateway” and an “open hub”. It leverages its strategic location. It enhances its position within the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle. This district embodies China’s global trade ambitions. It blends industrial heritage with modern logistics. Qingbaijiang stands as a testament to China’s economic evolution. It plays a vital role in shaping global trade and cultural exchange.