#China #Xi Jinping #Rural Revitalization #Aojiao Village #Dongshan County

Aojiao Village: An Inspiring Transformation

Nestled in Fujian Province, Aojiao Village is the epitome of a successful rural transformation, showcasing the harmonious blend of nature and modernity. This coastal village has leveraged its unique maritime heritage and the vision of China's leadership to create a prosperous and sustainable community. In recent years, Aojiao has emerged as a model for rural revitalization, impacting local livelihoods and the broader economic landscape.

A Rich Maritime Heritage

The charm of Aojiao Village lies in its rich history, deeply influenced by its maritime culture that has thrived for over 500 years. Located at the southeastern tip of Dongshan County, this village boasts stunning coastal scenery with fishing boats gliding across the waters, bringing in fresh catches at dawn. The local fisheries are not just a source of livelihood; they are the foundation of Aojiao’s communal identity.

The Vision of Leadership

President Xi Jinping's vision for rural revitalization has significantly shaped Aojiao's development. During his second visit in 2024, he acknowledged the village's remarkable progress since his first visit as governor 23 years prior. Xi emphasized the importance of leveraging local resources, stating, "Use the mountains if you live by the mountains, and use the sea if you live by the sea." This philosophy resonates through Aojiao's strategies for economic growth and sustainability.

Modernization and Economic Growth

Aojiao’s transformation began with the modernization of its fishing fleet. In the early 2000s, fishermen relied on small wooden trawlers under challenging conditions. Recognizing the need for advancement, village officials secured loans for local fishermen to invest in larger, steel-hulled vessels. Equipped with advanced technologies like GPS navigation and refrigeration systems, these modern boats allowed fishermen to venture further into the sea, significantly enhancing their productivity and profits.

Today, Aojiao boasts 88 registered steel-hulled fishing boats and a total of 603 smaller vessels. By 2023, the village's marine output exceeded 330 million yuan (around $45.3 million). This phenomenal progress is a clear reflection of Xi's vision for diversification in food supply and income generation for rural residents.

Aquaculture and Sustainability

Alongside traditional fishing, Aojiao has embraced aquaculture as a key driver of economic growth. The village now features advanced sea farms, utilizing innovative technology to maximize productivity in an environmentally sustainable way. For example, farmers like Guo Handong have transformed their operations from wooden boatbuilding to pioneering abalone farming. His operations now include 122 tanks, nearly double their previous capacity, monitored via an IoT system for optimal water quality management.

This transition reflects a broader national trend where 82% of China’s aquatic products were produced through aquaculture in 2024, making Aojiao a vital player in this transformative sector.

Environmental Restoration and Rural Tourism

Part of Aojiao’s revitalization has included a committed focus on environmental restoration. In response to past challenges with pollution from rapid aquaculture growth, local authorities have implemented extensive ecological cleanup initiatives, ensuring the coastal ecosystem thrives. These efforts have revitalized the marine environment, promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and nature.

With improved environmental conditions, rural tourism in Aojiao has flourished. Local entrepreneurs like military veteran Lin Hubin now offer homestays, appealing to tourists eager to immerse themselves in the seaside lifestyle while supporting the community's economy.

The Road Ahead

Despite these successes, Aojiao faces challenges such as declining fish stocks and an aging workforce as younger residents migrate to urban areas. Nevertheless, local fishermen remain optimistic about their future. According to Shen Zhiqun, a 59-year-old fisherman, the enduring relationship with the sea is the cornerstone of their livelihood: "Everything we have comes from the sea. As long as we treat it with care and respect, it will continue to give back."

In conclusion, Aojiao Village stands as a testament to the successful implementation of a comprehensive rural revitalization strategy, combining traditional practices with modern technology. The village's journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for similar communities across China, aiming to achieve sustainable growth while preserving their unique heritage.