National Economic & Technology Development Zones

The economic and technology development zones are a component of China's opening-up. Within the special zones in a city, a small piece of land is singled out and a cluster of excellent infrastructure facilities is set up to create international investment environment. The zones are expected to attract foreign investment and help form the modern industrial structure led by hi-tech industries. These zones have become key areas of the local cities and surrounding region to develop foreign-oriented economy and trade. In 1988, 14 coastal cities receieved approval from the State Council to set up their economic and technology development zones. They are Dalian, Qinghuangdao, Tianjin, Yantai, Qingdao, Lianyungang, Nantong, Minxing, Hongqiao, Zaohejing, Ningbo, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Zhanjiang. Up till now, there are 49 national economic and technology development zones in China, with 27 in eastern coastal area and 22 in the mid-western region. Besides, the State Council has also approved to set up the Suzhou Industrial Park, Jinqiao Export Processiong Zone, Ningbo Daxie Economic and Technology Development Zone, Xiamen Haicang Investment Zone, Hainan Yangpu Development Zone. These areas enjoy the same policy as that in the economic and technology development zones.