#China #Xi Jinping #Xiamen #Free Trade Zone

The Transformation of Xiamen

In the heart of China’s Fujian Province lies the Compressive Service Center in the Xiamen Area of the Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ), a beacon of innovative economic policy and collaborative governance. This remarkable facility, characterized by its glass walls and organized workspace, showcases how diverse government agencies work harmoniously to create a seamless experience for businesses. This one-stop center's design resembles that of a high-end banking establishment, but its role transcends traditional expectations, serving as a model for China's modern economic strategies.

A Legacy of Progress

The Compressive Service Center houses an exhibition hall that tells the gripping story of Xiamen's evolution from a modest port city to a global harbor. The hall features important documents dating back to significant milestones, such as the establishment of China's first wholly foreign-owned company in 1982 and the license for the first Chinese-foreign joint venture bank in 1985. At its center stands the Xiamen Economic and Social Development Strategy document from 1985 to 2000, a prized artifact that outlines the city’s path to prosperity, underscoring the foresight of its pioneers, including Xi Jinping, who played a pivotal role in its formation nearly four decades ago.

In October 2024, during an inspection of the Xiamen FTZ, President Xi reflected on this legacy, remarking, "We planted seeds here; today's harvest surpasses our expectations." His words highlight not just the success of a city but the fulfillment of a national vision, affirming that long-term strategic planning, as outlined in the Development Strategy, is crucial for sustained growth and development.

Long-Term Vision as a Driving Force

Xiamen has been a critical trading hub for centuries due to its strategic location along China's southeastern coastline. Designated as one of four Special Economic Zones in 1980, Xiamen became a pilot site for various economic policies aimed at engaging with global commerce. However, when Xi Jinping became the vice mayor in 1985, the city's future was uncertain; economic fundamentals were weak, and differing opinions divided local officials on the city's prospects.

Recognizing the need for a coherent long-term plan, Xi advocated for comprehensive strategies with a vision extending beyond the immediate future. This led to the formulation of a pioneering 15-year development plan that stands as a testament to long-term, strategic economic planning — a rarity in urban governance at the time. Known as the