“South Gate” of Jiangsu. That’s a fitting nickname for Wujiang District. Wujiang stands as a testament to China’s rapid economic development and rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern innovation.
Wujiang District is located in the southernmost part of Jiangsu province. It borders Shanghai to the northeast and Zhejiang province to the south. Wujiang is one of five urban districts in Suzhou. Once a county-level city, it became a district in 2012.
Historically, Wujiang was known as the “Land of Fish and Rice” and “Capital of Silk.” Today, it is also celebrated as the “Capital of Cable and Optical Cable” and the “City of Electronics.” Wujiang seamlessly blends its agricultural past with its technological present.
With a population of over 1.5 million, Wujiang covers an area of 1,176 square kilometers. Songling is the central town. It serves as the seat of the district government. Wujiang’s strategic location south of Suzhou positions it as a vital economic hub.
The economy of Wujiang is booming. In 2007, its GDP reached 61.8 billion yuan. The GDP per capita was approximately US$10,700. Wujiang’s economic success is driven by both foreign investment and local innovation.
Over 1,300 foreign enterprises have invested in Wujiang. Their total registered investment amounts to US$10 billion. This influx of foreign capital has spurred growth in various sectors.
Wujiang Economic Development Zone (WEDZ) is a key industrial site. Established in 1993, it covers an area of 80 square kilometers. WEDZ hosts over 783 foreign-invested enterprises. It is a major IT industry manufacturing base.
Jiangsu Fenhu Economic Development Zone borders Shanghai. It is a young provincial economic zone. Fenhu leverages its proximity to Shanghai to drive economic growth.
Wujiang’s IT industry is rapidly developing. Over 700 IT enterprises operate in the district. These companies produce computer peripherals, mobile phones, and LCD monitors. Wujiang Economic Development Zone is the world’s largest manufacturing base for power supplies, ADSL devices, and backlight modules.
The silk and textile industry has deep roots in Wujiang. This sector boasts over 100,000 shuttle-less looms. The annual output of various fabrics is 7 billion meters. Wujiang’s silk production accounts for a significant portion of the national total.
The China Eastern Silk Market in Wujiang is a major trade hub. In 2007, its trade volume reached US$6.9 billion. It is the largest retail market for fiber filament in China.
Wujiang Taihu New City is located on the east coast of Taihu Lake. It features ecotourism resources such as hot springs and theme parks. The area boasts a 60% green coverage rate.
Fenhu High-tech Zone integrates the administrative zone with Lili. It’s known as a “Chinese Famous Historical and Cultural Town”. Fenhu enjoys a prime location in the economic circle around Shanghai.
Wujiang High-tech Zone is located in Shengze. It is known as “Chinese silk capital”. Shengze has jurisdiction over numerous communities and villages.
Wujiang is twinned with eight sister cities around the world. These include Bourgoin-Jallieu in France and Chiba in Japan. These partnerships foster cultural exchange and economic cooperation.
Wujiang seamlessly blends history with progress. Its economic achievements and cultural richness make it a unique destination. As we conclude our visit to Wujiang District, remember its story. It is a story of transformation, innovation, and enduring cultural pride.