.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Zhao Long, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Fujian Provincial Committee and governor of Fujian province

Ms. Guo Ningning, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and executive vice governor of Fujian province 

Mr. Meng Qian, director of the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission 

Mr. Weng Yuyao, director of the Fujian Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology

Chairperson:

Mr. Chen Wenjun, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

April 8, 2024

Chen Wenjun:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference in the series "Promoting High-Quality Development" held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today, we are pleased to have invited Mr. Zhao Long, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Fujian Provincial Committee and governor of Fujian province, to brief you on pursuing high-quality development as an overarching task and advancing Fujian's practice for Chinese modernization, and to answer your questions. Also present today are Ms. Guo Ningning, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and executive vice governor of Fujian province; Mr. Meng Qian, director of the Fujian Provincial Development and Reform Commission; and Mr. Weng Yuyao, director of the Fujian Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhao for his introduction. 

Zhao Long:

Thank you, Mr. Chen. Good morning, everyone. I'm very pleased to meet with you here to introduce the high-quality economic and social development of Fujian. First, on behalf of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and the Fujian provincial government, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to friends from all walks of life for your long-term interest in and support for Fujian.

It is well-known that Fujian is an important birthplace and practice ground for Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. General Secretary Xi Jinping worked in Fujian for 17 and a half years. During that period, he personally led and promoted the reform, opening-up and modernization of Fujian, creating valuable intellectual and cultural wealth, and practical achievements for us. Since assuming duties in the CPC Central Committee, the general secretary has always placed great importance on and cared for the high-quality development of Fujian, drawing a magnificent blueprint for a new Fujian featuring dynamic mechanisms, upgraded industries, improvement of people's livelihoods, and a beautiful environment. He explicitly put forward the "four requirements ," encouraging us to make greater progress in accelerating the modernization of the economic system, to better serve and integrate into the new development pattern, to make greater strides in exploring new ways to promote integrated development with Taiwan, and to achieve greater breakthroughs in creating a high-quality life. This has charted the course and provided fundamental guidance for Fujian's high-quality development.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of General Secretary Xi Jinping's proposal to build a new Fujian that is "dynamic, upgraded, prosperous and beautiful." Over the past decade, we have always kept his expectations in mind and pressed forward with gratitude, promoting high-quality development in all aspects. The province's gross domestic product (GDP) has successively surpassed three 1-trillion-yuan thresholds, increasing from 2.5 trillion yuan to 5.4 trillion yuan ($746.18 billion), ranking eighth in the country. Its per capita GDP has risen from 64,000 yuan to 130,000 yuan, ranking fourth in the country. Building a new Fujian in the new era has reached a new level, and a splendid scroll of Chinese modernization is gradually unfolding across Fujian province.

We have accelerated the building of a prosperous and strong Fujian, laying a more stable foundation for high-quality development. Today's Fujian is rapidly building a modern industrial system, covering 38 out of the 41 major industrial categories, with the proportion of value added manufacturing in GDP ranking fourth nationwide. It shows the following features: First, we are moving toward high-end development. Our pillar industries such as electronic information, advanced equipment manufacturing, and modern textile and garment have achieved a scale exceeding 1 trillion yuan. Leading enterprises like Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited, Fuyao Glass Industry Group and Anta Sports are known worldwide. Second, we are advancing toward intelligent development. Smart transformation and digital conversion have equipped traditional industries with "digital wings," with the proportion of enterprises in the province with key business segments fully digitalized ranking third nationwide. Third, we are transitioning toward green development. New energy industries such as power batteries, new types of energy storage and offshore wind power have seen strong growth, with clean energy making up 63% of the province's installed capacity.

We have accelerated the building of an innovative Fujian, enhancing the driving force behind high-quality development. Today's Fujian is not only experiencing an "acceleration" in scientific and technological innovation, but an increasing number of innovative laboratory findings have been put into industrial production. Over the past decade, Fujian's total R&D investment has exceeded 630 billion yuan, seven provincial innovation laboratories have achieved breakthroughs in 150 core technologies, the cumulative transaction amount of technology contracts has exceeded 163.3 billion yuan, the number of national high-tech enterprises has surpassed 12,000, and the industrialization efficiency index for advanced and innovative technologies ranks third nationwide.

We have accelerated the building of a dynamic Fujian, expanding the scope for high-quality development. Today's Fujian sees its path of reform becoming broader, with significant progress in 10 key areas. Reforms in areas such as forestry, medical care and the system of specially dispatched technicians have been promoted nationwide. Fujian is further widening its door to the world, with the Maritime Silk Road core area and the BRICS innovation base playing an ever-greater effect as "window displays ." The free trade pilot zone has introduced 275 nationally pioneering measures, with the total volume of imports and exports growing at an average annual rate of 6.5%. The business environment is continuously improving, with our integrated government service capability ranking in the top tier nationwide. The number of business entities has increased from 1.4 million to 7.61 million, marking a 4.4-fold increase.

We have accelerated the building of a happy Fujian, where high-quality development is even more substantial. Today in Fujian, the lives of ordinary people have become richer and more fulfilling. In the past decade, 5.89 million new urban jobs have been created, and the per capita disposable income of residents has grown from 23,000 yuan to 45,000 yuan, ranking seventh nationwide. The preschool enrollment rate is 99.2%, the consolidation rate of compulsory education is 99.5%, and the gross enrollment rate for senior high school is 97.2%, all of which are among the highest in the country. The average life expectancy in the province has increased to 78.85 years.

We have expedited the construction of a beautiful Fujian, adding a touch of green for the region's high-quality development. In today's Fujian, the air is noticeably fresher, boasting an impressive 98.5% of days with excellent air quality in cities with subordinate districts. The concentration of PM2.5 stands at just 20 micrograms per cubic meter, which is 10 micrograms below the national average. Waters become clearer, with 99% of major rivers and 88.7% of nearshore seas achieving excellent water quality. The environment is cleaner, with the intensity of major pollutant emissions at 60% of the national average. The forest coverage rate is 65.12%, ranking first in the country for 45 consecutive years.

We have accelerated the construction of a safe Fujian, strengthening the foundation for the region's high-quality development. In today's Fujian, the exemplary practices of "reaching out to the grassroots" and "prompt action and practical work" have become well-established. The evaluation of public safety construction ranks among the top nationwide, maintaining a continuous public safety satisfaction rate of over 99%.

As we embark on the new journey, our focus remains steadfast on advancing the greatest political goal of promoting the Chinese path to modernization, firmly grasping the primary task of high-quality development, and adhering closely to the important "four requirements ," which encourage us to make greater progress in accelerating the modernization of the economic system, to better serve and integrate into the new development pattern, to make greater strides in exploring new ways to promote integrated development with Taiwan, and to achieve greater breakthroughs in creating a high-quality life. We will strive to transform the magnificent blueprint for the new Fujian outlined by General Secretary Xi Jinping into reality. In doing so, we will make new and greater contributions to the construction of a strong nation and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Chen Wenjun:

Thank you, Mr. Zhao. Now the floor is open for questions. Please state the name of the media outlet you work for before asking your questions. 

CCTV:

This year marks another significant milestone in comprehensively deepening reforms. Fujian has been at the forefront in reform and opening-up. As such, what new measures are you taking in deepening reforms and expanding opening-up this year? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

Thank you for your question. I will answer this. 

It is well-known that before reform and opening-up, Fujian province ranked eighth from bottom nationwide in terms of total economic output, suffering from weak foundations and insufficient development. However, after the initiation of the reform and opening-up policy, the central government granted us pioneering policies. The Fujian people, known for their indomitable spirit, diligence and courage, seized the momentum of reform and opening-up to transform the province from a relatively backward region into a thriving economic hub, where citizens enjoy prosperous lives and robust international engagements. Fujian has thus become a blessed land. As I mentioned earlier, the province's total economic output has surged to eighth place nationwide, and our per capita GDP ranks fourth in the country. We have also explored a path of high-quality development. Throughout this journey, innovative practices stemming from reform and opening-up have served as the most potent driving force. I would also like to share with you the story of the "Jinjiang Experience" here.

In the early 1980s, Jinjiang locals were known for their motto "Love to compete and will win, losing gracefully, and smiling in defeat." They kick-started their entrepreneurial endeavors with the help of the "three supplies and one compensation" trade modes, namely, processing with supplied materials, processing according to supplied samples, assembling with supplied parts, and compensation trade, with numerous enterprises emerging like mushrooms after rain. This spurred rapid development in the private sector economy. During his tenure in Fujian, General Secretary Xi Jinping visited Jinjiang seven times in six years, personally summarizing and refining the "Jinjiang Experience." This amalgamation of people's pioneering spirit with a systematic understanding of reform and specific deployment requirements became the "golden key" that guided Jinjiang and even the entire Fujian toward high-quality development. In today's Jinjiang, there is one entrepreneur for every seven individuals, and one enterprise for every 21 people. Although Jinjiang constitutes only 1/200 of the land area of Fujian, it contributes 1/16 of the province's total economic output, building itself into a renowned hub of brands at home and abroad. Many well-known brands, such as Anta, 361 Degrees and Xtep in sports, as well as Hengan Group , Panpan Foods and clothing firm Septwolves , all originate from Jinjiang. Without the reform and opening-up policies, Jinjiang's present-day achievements would have been unimaginable.

In Fujian, there are many similar stories, such as the calls for loosening restrictions and delegating power, the forestry reforms in Wuping, the healthcare reforms in Sanming, and the deployment of science and technology experts. It can be said that Fujian's current development and achievements are due to reform and opening-up, and its future prospects and hopes also rely on this policy. Moving forward, we will continue to adhere to the principles of uninterrupted reform and continued opening-up, consistently deepening the process of reform and opening-up. Specifically, we will focus on the following two aspects:

In terms of reform, we will focus on four main areas. First, we will address key issues in ideological understanding, promoting the spirit of pioneering and striving for success, and continuing to use the spirit, mindset and measures of reform to solve problems and drive development. Second, we will focus on key areas of reform, including market-oriented allocation of production factors, state-owned assets and enterprises, fiscal, taxation and financial systems, and the transformation of green resources. Third, we will grasp key links, particularly in balancing between the objectives and means of reform, between eradicating the old and establishing the new, between higher authorities and local development, and between the definition of what's right and what's wrong, continuously removing institutional barriers that hinder high-quality development, ensuring the government effectively balances the interests of multiple parties, and allowing the market to play its role with more vitality. Fourth, we will highlight Fujian's characteristics, continuously deepening reforms in areas such as healthcare, forestry and the deployment of science and technology experts, striving to offer more of Fujian's experiences to the rest of the country.

In terms of opening-up, we will focus on three areas. The first is going global and extending a warm welcome. We will better leverage domestic and international markets and resources and conduct the "Invest in Fujian" global investment attraction event. By intensifying efforts to attract foreign investment, we aim to expand further into markets in ASEAN, Europe, and emerging economies, making foreign capital and enterprises eager to come, stay and thrive. The second area involves proactively aligning with the country's major regional strategies. Our statistics show that Fujian's trade with the Yangtze River Delta and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area accounts for more than 55% of its inter-provincial trade. Given our proximity and connectivity to these two major economic regions, we will enhance coordination and collaboration with them. For example, we plan to improve efficient transportation networks, facilitate the sharing of innovative resources, optimize the mechanism for industrial alignment, and promote the integrated development of culture and tourism, striving to achieve seamless connectivity. The third area is leveraging the advantages of overseas Chinese. As 15.8 million overseas Chinese originate from Fujian, there is a saying: "Wherever there is sunlight and seawater, Fujian people are working hard." Since the launch of reform and opening-up in 1978, the vast number of Fujian people overseas have shown patriotism, love for their hometowns, dedication to success, integrity, and philanthropy, making indispensable contributions to the development and progress of Fujian. We will always remember and keep this in our hearts. Today, we will vigorously implement the Fujian Business Return Project, providing more convenience for overseas Fujian people to invest in Fujian and promoting the convergence of more resources and production factors in Fujian, thus achieving win-win development featuring mutual benefits.

That's all for my introduction. Thank you.

Cover News:

Fujian's private economy is well-developed. Just now, Mr. Zhao mentioned several private enterprises, such as CATL, Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co., Ltd ., and Anta. Could you share with us how Fujian has promoted the expansion and strengthening of private enterprises to advance the high-quality development of the private economy? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

Ms. Guo will answer this question. 

Guo Ningning:

Thank you for your interest in Fujian's private sector. Fujian, a major province for the private economy, sees its private enterprises contributing nearly 70% of GDP, over 70% of tax revenue, over 70% of scientific and technological advances, over 80% of jobs, and over 90% of business entities. As Mr. Zhao mentioned earlier, the growth and expansion of Fujian's private sector can be attributed to the "Jinjiang Experience." In recent years, being always mindful of the expectations on us, we have fully supported private enterprises in breaking new ground and dedicating themselves to success. Globally, one out of every three pieces of automotive glass and one out of every five pairs of trainers are manufactured in Fujian. Additionally, Fujian leads in the global market share of new energy vehicle power batteries.

Inheriting and carrying forward the "Jinjiang Experience," the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and Fujian provincial government have always believed that private enterprises and entrepreneurs "belong to our own family", and have handled matters of these enterprises as "our own," have resolved their difficulties, and have made concrete efforts to benefit them. Last year, we pioneered the strategy of building Fujian's strength through the private economy in the new era and introduced the "1 plus N" policy measures. By doing so, we aim to devote the entire province's support to the dense forest of private enterprises and the economy so that they can thrive and continue to expand in Fujian's fertile soil. We have focused our efforts on three areas:

First, we have endeavored to cultivate top-tier market entities. We have supported private enterprises in adhering to their operations and core business without relenting, and specializing in areas such as the production of shoes, paper, tea, clothing, glass and batteries. We have also encouraged them to remain committed to innovation and technological advancements and to develop more century-old brands and boutique stores, ensuring that large enterprises grow stronger and small ones flourish.

Second, we have worked to provide first-class government services. We have adhered to the principle that government services should be available wherever private enterprises operate. Utilizing both online and offline channels, we have aggregated the entire province's government big data for sharing and have fully leveraged information technology platforms. Our goal has been to provide private enterprises with efficient and integrated services, making every effort to enable tasks to be accomplished efficiently and data to be collected just once. Over 83% of services can be accessed without a single visit. In Fujian, many cities and counties follow the four principles when serving private enterprises: arriving when needed, being available on demand, delivering on promises, and providing thoughtful services. Our aim is to build a convenient Fujian with the capacity, efficiency and favorable environment to handle matters, thus ensuring successful handling. 

Third, we have redoubled our efforts to create a top-class business environment. Adhering to the principles of market orientation, rule of law, and internationalization, we have supported fair competition among various market entities and ensured their efficient access to diverse production factors and resources. We have safeguarded the property rights of private enterprises and the rights and interests of private entrepreneurs in accordance with the law, thereby enhancing the internal momentum of these enterprises and unlocking the vitality of innovation, entrepreneurship and creation.

That's all for my introduction, thank you. 

National Business Daily:

Fujian's "Ningde Model" is a successful example of targeted poverty reduction and alleviation. However, there is still much work to be done to transition from poverty alleviation to rural revitalization. Could you share any new developments and measures regarding Fujian's endeavors toward all-around rural revitalization? Thank you.

Guo Ningning:

Thank you for your attention and concern for rural revitalization in Fujian. During the period When General Secretary Xi Jinping was working in Ningde, he led local people to fight against poverty and proposed a series of important concepts on poverty alleviation, such as "constant dropping wears away a stone ," "maintain a persistent and hard-working spirit ," "weak birds take flight early ," "implement the practices of going into communities to communicate the Party's lines and policies, carry out research and studies, address people's complaints, and conduct field work ," "increase confidence before relieving poverty," and "acquire knowledge and skills before relieving poverty." His book titled "Up and Out of Poverty " provides us with valuable ideological, spiritual wealth and practical achievements. In 2019, when replying to a letter from residents of Xiadang Township in Ningde, General Secretary Xi Jinping encouraged villagers to work continuously on a path of rural vitalization reflecting the characteristics of eastern Fujian province .

Always bearing in mind what General Secretary Xi Jinping has envisioned for the province, the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and the provincial government made unremitting efforts to promote the comprehensive revitalization in five aspects: businesses, talent, culture, ecosystems, and organizations in the countryside, and work on a path of rural vitalization with distinctive local features. Last year, the per capita disposable income of rural residents in Fujian reached 27,000 yuan, ranking sixth in the country. This year, we plan to consistently implement the "Thousand Villages Demonstration and Ten Thousand Villages Prosperity" project. In the next five years, we will pool the capital of 2.6 billion yuan each year to build over 1,000 provincial-level demonstrative villages on rural revitalization and renovate more than 10,000 villages across the province. We will focus on the following three fields:

First, we will develop characteristic industries according to local conditions. We insist on our way to promote high-quality development on modern agriculture with local features, expand industrial chain, ascend value chain and endeavor to build an industrial system that focuses on agricultural modernization. . During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), we fully committed to constructing 30 key industrial parks for modern agriculture, 20 major industrial clusters with local advantages and characteristics, 100 towns featuring agriculture industries as well as 2,000 demonstrative villages with local specialties. At present, Fujian tea, Fujian fruits, Fujian fish, Fujian grain and Fujian mushrooms have already become famous. The reputation of "Funongyoupin", the regional public brand of green and good-quality agricultural products in Fujian, has improved continuously.

Second, we will fully advance the building of harmonious and beautiful villages. With a target of "ensuring modern standards of living in rural areas ," we will build and renovate what is needed and promote rural development in an orderly manner. At the beginning of this year, we issued a guidebook on local villages classifications and carried out a new round of classifying work in rural areas in Fujian. Next, we will formulate rural construction guideline and improve rural landscape through micro-renewal, building beautiful courtyards, beautiful micro landscape, beautiful small parks, beautiful countryside as well as beautiful leisure tourist spots, so as to make our villages comfortable for both living and travelling. 

Third, we will improve civilization standards in rural areas. We will strengthen Party organizations at village level, utilize the positive role of village regulations and folk conventions and improve the rural governance model that combines self-governance, rule of law and rule of virtue. We will fully maximize the role of resident first secretaries , technicians sent to local areas, rural revitalization instructors and rural financial assistants. More college graduates, skilled personnel, rural migrant workers and entrepreneurs will be encouraged to go back and work in villages and counties within Fujian. We will facilitate financial services in all villages and nurture a number of "new type of farmers" who have a good knowledge of agriculture, love our rural areas, and care about rural people. Nowadays, villages in Fujian are harmonious, beautiful and prosperous.

Southern Metropolis Daily:

New quality productive forces has emerged as a buzzword this year, which arouse wide attention from all industries. Local governments have taken actions to drive their future growth. As a major economically developed and coastal province in southeastern China, what will Fujian do to develop new quality productive forces? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

Thanks for your question and I will answer it. We all know that productivity is the fundamental driving force for the progress of human civilization and social development. In today's world, as a new round of sci-tech revolution and industrial transformation keeps advancing, the proposal of new quality productive forces provides a scientific guidance for upgrading traditional economic growth modes and promoting high-quality development.

It is especially urgent for Fujian to foster new quality productive forces. Due to some historical reasons, as you all know, innovation is a shortcoming for our province. But we can rely on sound foundations in the real economy and relatively complete industrial chain to foster new quality productive forces. More importantly, the people of Fujian are brave to work hard and have strong creativity, building a good atmosphere for innovation. We will grasp the scientific connotation and core meaning of new quality productive forces, unswervingly promoting high-quality development by fostering new quality productive forces. We will focus on the following five aspects.

First is sci-tech innovation. The distinguishing point of new quality productive forces is innovation. We will accelerate building Fujian into an innovation-driven province. This year, investment in research and development (R&D) are expected to grow at an average annual rate of more than 18%, and the number of national high-tech enterprises will exceed 13,000.

Second is modernization of industrial system. The key of new quality productive forces is good quality. We will holistically advance digital and intelligent transformation of traditional industries, foster strategic emerging industries, like information technology, new energy, new materials and biomedicine, and boost future-oriented industries including artificial intelligence and quantum technology in order to make traditional industries higher-end, smarter and more eco-friendly. Within the year, we will also implement national policies on large-scale equipment renewal, continue to launch over 1,000 projects on technological transformation and nurture more than 1,000 specialized and sophisticated enterprises that could produce novel and unique products.

Third is green and low-carbon development. New quality productive forces are inherently green ones. We will leverage Fujian's advantages in clean energy and green industries, and make great efforts to develop industries like power batteries, offshore wind power and new types of energy storage. We will strengthen the green service industry and establish a supply chain that is energy-saving, circular, green and low-carbon. As was previously mentioned, Fujian's installed capacity of clean energy accounts for 63% of its total, which is a significant advantage for us to achieve high-quality development. We will strive to achieve 100% utilization of clean and green electricity by manufacturing enterprises across the entire province as soon as possible.

Fourth is the provision of production factors. This primarily involves deepening the reform of market allocation of production factors and accelerating the flow efficiency of factors such as land, capital, technology and data. In this respect, our goal is to ensure that enterprises can quickly obtain the production factors they need and be able to transfer these products out quickly as they wish. For example, we are actively revitalizing land with inefficient functions and promoting the standardized construction of industrial parks. Last year, through the reform, the province added over 5 million square meters of standardized factory buildings. This year, we will step up efforts to a larger scale, and over 20 million square meters of new standardized factory buildings are expected to be constructed.

Fifth is to create a top-tier business environment. We will continuously improve administrative services and step up efforts in strengthening legal guarantees, enhancing the credit system, protecting intellectual property rights, and building a new type of cordial and clean relationship between government and business , in a bid to create a market-oriented, law-based and internationalized business environment. For example, in terms of administrative services, we will fully utilize the integrated law enforcement platform and promote reforms to improve the efficiency of data collection and matter handling to support the development of new quality productive forces, just like Ms. Guo Ningning introduced earlier.

That's all from me. Thank you!

Phoenix TV:

I am interested in the construction of a Digital Fujian . Could you please share with us the progress made in digital economy development, digital administrative services and digital society construction? And what's your plan to leverage advantages and seize opportunities to better serve high-quality development through digital empowerment? Thank you.

Meng Qian:

Thank you for your questions. The Fujian provincial government made the arrangement to build a Digital Fujian back in 2000. Since then, we have adhered to the principle of unified management and have compiled and implemented five-year Digital Fujian plans for five consecutive times, making Fujian province the earliest and only province that has consistently made such efforts. We have enhanced the construction of digital infrastructure and aggregated holistic administrative data from all levels across the province, enabling us to "have access to the province's data with one single click." We have strived to maintain digital economic development as the highland for the future, with the added value of the province's digital economy reaching 2.9 trillion yuan, accounting for 53.3% of GDP. We uphold the concept of "bringing digital technology closer to society, the people and daily life," and the reality of exploring the province with just a mobile phone is coming true. For example, the integrated law enforcement platform mentioned by Mr. Zhao Long earlier — the Min Law Enforcement Platform — covers over 4,000 law enforcement entities across the provincial, municipal, county and township levels. It coordinates and summarizes different functions and multiple matters, enabling "one visit for multiple inspections" and "one-time processing with mutual recognition across the province." This approach has improved the quality of inspection and law enforcement, reduced interference with enterprises, and facilitated online supervision and appeal of our law enforcement actions by enterprises. It can be said that digitalization has greatly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of our digital governance.

Next, our work will focus on five aspects. First, we will further implement the three-year rolling action plan for new infrastructure construction, strengthen the construction of digital infrastructure, solidify the hardware support for the Digital Fujian, and make digital computing, storage and transmission efficient. Second, we will strengthen system integration, better integrate and clarify the data across the province, and establish an integrated public data system for the whole province. At the same time, we will remove institutional barriers to enable data supply and make it accessible to enterprises and the public, thus expanding the breadth of data application. Third, we will continue to strengthen and expand digital industry clusters and make proactive plans for future industries. We will strive to create a new benchmark for digital transformation, promote new-type industrialization with digitization, and enhance the penetration of data in economic development. Fourth, we will promote the construction of a digital government, especially by optimizing the Min Law Enforcement Platform, the digital monitoring platform for business environment and other distinctive brands, and improve fine economic and social management, making our digital governance more precise. Finally, we will implement the digital service improvement project to enhance the functions of the provincial administrative service platform, especially by optimizing public services such as healthcare and elderly care, so that digital services better demonstrate a human touch.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to promote an upcoming event. Next month, our Fuzhou city will host the Digital China Summit for the seventh consecutive year. We welcome you to visit Fuzhou and join us in supporting the development of Digital Fujian and Digital China. Thank you!

Beijing Youth Daily:

The county economy in Fujian province is flourishing, and we are keen to explore this topic. We noticed that on the second day following the resumption of production after the Spring Festival holiday, Fujian organized an on-site promotion event for the development of key industrial chains in counties across the province. I would like to ask what progress has been made in Fujian regarding this work, and what specific measures are planned next? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

This question goes to Mr. Weng.

Weng Yuyao:

County governance ensures national stability. The county economy is a fundamental part of the national economy and a key pillar for realizing new industrialization, new urbanization and rural revitalization across the board. Over the years, we have focused on key industrial chains within counties and forged a path of county development with Fujian characteristics. Overall, there are several features:

First, the county economy has improved. Last year, there were 16 counties (cities, districts) in our province with a GDP exceeding 100 billion yuan, up by six compared to 2020. A total of 11 counties and districts were selected among the top 100 county economies nationwide, ranking seventh in the country. The GDP of all counties (cities, districts) in the province either exceeded or approached the significant milestone of 10 billion yuan. Despite constituting just one-fifth of the total counties and districts in the province, 17 major economic counties, such as Changle and Xiangan counties, contributed more than 40% of the province's GDP and over 60% of industrial revenue.

Second, industrial clusters with local features have expanded. Jinjiang has developed a complete industrial chain for footwear and apparel industry, establishing 12 listed companies and more than 20 well-known brands, making it a nationally renowned production base for men's wear and sports shoes. Ningde has been designated a national advanced manufacturing cluster for power battery production. Fu'an is recognized as the world's largest stainless steel production base.

Third, the competitiveness of regional brands has increased. Fuqing's automotive glass, Changle's textile fibers, Dehua's ceramic crafts, Guangze's Sunner chicken, Shaowu's fluorine chemicals, and Changting's rare earth processing technology have all become Fujian's hallmarks with substantial influence across the nation. These examples highlight the diversified industrial development across the counties.

Next, we will increase efforts to enhance key industrial chains within counties to elevate high-quality economic development in these areas.

First, we will tailor our policies to fit local conditions and offer category-specific guidance. We will improve the working mechanism by assigning dedicated teams to each industry, creating maps for key industrial chains, publishing white papers, and bolstering policy support. We plan to clearly define each county's leading industries, development priorities, and strategies, encouraging them to strengthen cooperation and complement each other with their unique strengths. We will also promote the integrated development of primary, secondary, and tertiary industries, urban and rural areas, and Fujian and Taiwan.

Second, we will rely on innovation to drive upgrading and transformation. We will implement policies like providing funding support through loan interest subsidies for technical transformation, promoting large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-in, and accelerating enterprises' smart and digital transformation. Efforts will be made to select leading industrial teams and achieve breakthroughs in core technologies in key fields. Furthermore, we will deepen the standardized construction of industrial parks and intensify efforts to develop the circular economy. These efforts aim to push the high-end, smart and green development of industries.

Third, we will cultivate leading enterprises and drive development in stages. We will identify leading enterprises in the industrial chain, encourage and support enterprises to grow stronger and bigger, and enhance their leading role in driving the development of industrial chains. For example, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL) has attracted over 80 upstream and downstream enterprises to settle in Jiaocheng district. This ensures that more than 85% of raw materials for lithium-ion battery production are sourced and purchased locally. In addition, we will ramp up efforts to develop specialized and sophisticated enterprises that produce novel and unique products, high-tech enterprises, and single-product specialists . These initiatives are geared towards cultivating new quality productive forces and enhancing the momentum of industrial development. Thank you!

China News Service:

Fujian has promoted the community-based care project for the elderly by providing them meal services and holding lectures. I've heard that senior citizens can dine, learn and entertain themselves at these venues, and that the concept has become very popular. Could you please provide specific details? Additionally, what other measures has Fujian implemented to improve people's well-being? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

Thank you for your interest in Fujian. I will answer this question. In his 2024 New Year message, General Secretary Xi Jinping said, "Our goal is both inspiring and simple. Ultimately, it is about delivering a better life for the people. " On the eve of the Spring Festival in 2023, General Secretary Xi Jinping, talking via video link with elderly people at a social welfare home in Fuzhou, stated, "Whether a society is a happy one or not, it is very important to see whether the elderly are enjoying a happy life. "

China's aging population is on the rise. In Fujian, individuals aged 60 or above account for 19.3% of the province's total population, which means that Fujian has transitioned into a moderately aging society. In response, we have taken a series of measures, such as establishing "canteens and schools for elderly people." Launched in 2019, the program aims to integrate community resources and expand services to address challenges faced by the elderly, such as difficulties in buying groceries, cooking and having meals. Fujian is now home to over 3,000 community canteens for the elderly, providing service for more than 150,000 people daily. This initiative has been included in the annual program for the benefit of people by the provincial committee and provincial government. Some canteens have expanded their services beyond meals to include activities such as calligraphy practice, music appreciation, dance classes, social gatherings, conversation and card games. These recreational activities are enjoyed by the elderly, contributing to their happiness, health and well-being in their later years.

Next, we will continue to focus on ensuring and improving people's livelihoods, addressing not only the question of quantity but also reinforcing the quality. We aim to transform people's aspirations for a better life into reality.

First, we will prioritize employment for key groups. This year, we will strive to achieve an increase of over 500,000 jobs within urban areas. Currently, our province faces significant structural contradictions in employment, particularly in the shortage of skilled professionals. To address this issue, we will collaborate with universities and enterprises, enhance supportive policies and strengthen vocational skills training. This will help meet the demands for high-quality talent in enterprises and cultivate a larger pool of highly skilled professionals.

Second, we will ensure to provide education that is satisfactory to the people. We will promote the expansion and improvement of basic education. This year, as part of our practical initiatives, we have planned to renovate and expand 150 public kindergartens and create an additional 40,000 public primary and secondary school slots. This means that more high-quality schools close to people's homes. Furthermore, we will further enhance vocational education and strengthen higher education institutions.

Third, we will promote the decentralization of high-quality medical resources to the local level. In recent years, we have supplemented and trained over 7,000 local medical personnel in counties and villages. We will continue to enhance the capacity of primary healthcare services, establish eight national regional medical centers and 13 provincial-level regional medical centers, and strengthen the pairing between tertiary hospitals at both the provincial and municipal levels and 25 relatively weaker county-level hospitals. Additionally, we will deepen the implementation of policies such as requiring medical personnel to serve at the grassroots level before they can be promoted to professional titles, aiming to ensure that small hospitals have more competent doctors and better facilities. Our goal is to address common and prevalent diseases in cities and counties and to provide solutions for minor ailments in rural areas.

In conclusion, when it comes to people's livelihoods, there are no small matters and there are numerous aspects to consider. As long as it is a matter that concerns the common people, we will spare no effort in handling the concerns and strive to achieve their satisfaction. That's all I have to say for now. Thank you all.

Shenzhen TV Zhi News: 

Last year, the central government specifically issued opinions to support the construction of a demonstration zone for cross-strait integrated development in Fujian. Could you please provide an update on the current progress? What are the next steps to effectively utilize the policies and actively explore new paths for cross-strait integration and development? Thank you.

Guo Ningning：

Thank you for your question. After the central government issued its policies, we convened the 5th Plenary Session of the 11th Provincial Party Committee to conduct specialized discussions and arrangements. We reviewed and approved the implementation guidelines for carrying out and implementing the central policies, putting forward 15 key tasks in four areas. We have taken the central government's "blueprint" and transformed it into concrete "construction plans" tailored specifically for the province of Fujian.

We are focusing on promoting integration through connectivity, benefits and affinity, and accelerating the construction of demonstration zones for cross-strait integration and development.

In terms of promoting integration through connectivity, we have vigorously promoted the resumption of maritime and air routes between Fujian Province and Kinmen, Matsu and other areas. Maritime routes have been restored between Fuzhou Mawei District, Lianjiang to Matsu and Xiamen and Quanzhou to Kinmen. Air routes have also resumed between Fuzhou to Taipei as well as Fuzhou to Kaohsiung, with a significant increase in passenger traffic. Moreover, Fuzhou, Xiamen and Pingtan have introduced over 2,000 rent-free and public rental housing for Taiwan compatriots. Now, it is very convenient for Taiwan compatriots to travel to Fujian. they can live, work and start businesses in Fujian with a sense of security and comfort.

In terms of promoting integration through benefits, we have vigorously implemented equal treatment, allowing Taiwan compatriots and enterprises in Fujian to enjoy comprehensive development opportunities. For example, Taiwan brands such as "Cheng Shin Tire（CST） " and "Taizu" have joined the family of well-established mainland enterprises and have shown remarkable progress. Last year, more than 2,100 new Taiwan-funded enterprises were established in Fujian with a high growth rate. The actual utilization of investment from Taiwan exceeded 7 billion yuan, more than doubling from the previous year, leading the mainland in both aspects. The cumulative trade volume between Fujian and Taiwan has exceeded 1.5 trillion yuan.

In terms of promoting integration through affinity, we have successfully organized key events such as the Cross-Strait Forum and the Cross-Strait Youth Festival. In 2023, a total of 573,000 Taiwan compatriots visited Fujian. Fujian is also home to 26 national-level cross-strait exchange bases, ranking first in mainland China. The compatriots from both sides of the strait are getting closer and closer, fostering a stronger sense of kinship.

Next, we will focus on four aspects to accelerate the exploration of new paths for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait. First, we will promote social integration, and further expand the application scenarios of residence permits for Taiwan residents, allowing Taiwan compatriots in Fujian to enjoy equal treatment in such areas as medical care, housing, elderly care and education, so that they can rest assured that they can come, integrate and develop well. Second, we will take further steps to promote economic integration. We will specifically plan and create more key projects for the integrated development between Fujian and Taiwan for Taiwanese companies and entrepreneurs. We have already introduced a series of supporting and encouraging policies that provide comprehensive support, whole process guarantees and full cycle services, so as to provide more and better development opportunities for Taiwan compatriots and Taiwanese companies in Fujian. This will bring benefits to people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and improve their lives. Third, we will make significant efforts to promote emotional integration. More than 80% of Taiwan compatriots have ancestry in Fujian. We will further enhance the connections between relatives on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and foster connections between villages with the same name. We will invite more Taiwan compatriots who have never visited the mainland for family visits, sightseeing and exchanges in Fujian. We will also invite them to personally experience the new development, changes and achievements on the mainland and in Fujian. They can feel the sense that the "two sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family, Fujian and Taiwan are close," and feel connected in blood and in heart. Fourth, we will make great efforts to promote regional integration. We are taking the lead in promoting integration with Taiwan in cities such as Fuzhou, Xiamen and Pingtan. On this basis, we will guide other regions in the province to find their positioning and coordinate efforts, and achieve comprehensive integration and development with Taiwan across the entire Fujian province.

That's all from me. Thank you.

Chen Wenjun:

The last two questions, please.

Zhonghongwang.com:

We have learned that Fujian province has introduced a series of measures in the first quarter, including a focus on making a stable and good start to the year. Could you briefly introduce the progress Fujian has made in expanding investment and stabilizing growth this year? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

I'd like to ask Mr. Meng to answer this question.

Meng Qian:

Thank you for your question. As you're all aware, in the first two months of this year, China's economy has kept a good momentum of  steady growth. The situation in Fujian is the same as the whole country. According to the data, our situation is even more optimistic. The first quarter has just ended, and the data is still being compiled and has not yet been released. However, we can feel the warmth of Fujian's economic spring from the roaring machinery, busy traffic and bustling crowds. Here is a set of objective figures to share with you. In the first quarter, the province's industrial electricity consumption increased by 13% year on year, highway traffic increased by 9%, offline consumption increased by 9.1%, hotel occupancy increased by 9.5% and tourist flow in scenic areas increased by 18.2%. These are all double-digit or close to double-digit growth rates, reflecting the basic situation of industries such as manufacturing, transportation, commerce and tourism. I believe that those of you who are familiar with the economic work will sense the confidence of Fujian's economy.

Of course, the data also reveals some problems, primarily in certain traditional industries that are still facing difficulties, and the transformation of the real estate industry has not been completed. These are "growing pains," indicating that our shift from old to new growth drivers is still a work in progress.

Next, we will continue to adhere to the general tone of seeking progress while maintaining stability, promoting stability through progress, and establishing the new before abolishing the old. We will give full play to Fujian's advantages in areas such as digital technology, marine, ecology, private economy, reform and opening-up, and overseas Chinese. We will strive to implement major strategies such as the innovation-driven development strategy , the strategy of building Fujian into a strong province for private economy in the new era, and the strategy of promoting regional coordinated development. Furthermore, we will accelerate the construction of a demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development and achieve high-quality development across the entire province. Specifically, we will address three aspects:

First, we will pursue development for the people and ensure smooth economic circulation . The purpose of economic development is to better meet people's aspirations for a better life . Investment and consumption serve as a means to drive economic growth, but their fundamental purpose is to meet people's livelihood needs. With investment, people can travel on faster high-speed trains and go to better hospitals for medical treatment. With consumption, people are able to afford the latest Huawei smartphone and enjoy better travel services. The key now is to ensure smooth economic circulation by implementing policies that synergize efforts in stabilizing employment, increasing income, expanding investment, promoting consumption and improving people's livelihoods. In that way, we will be able to overcome bottlenecks in economic operations, address pain points in business development, and resolve issues that people are concerned about.

Second, we will focus on innovation-driven development and develop new quality productive forces. We are working on developing the digital economy, marine economy, green economy and cultural tourism economy, continuously creating new growth drivers and development advantages. In this regard, private enterprises in Fujian have great potential. We have a private enterprise called Huafeng (Huafeng Textile Group). They built a high-level team from all over the world and developed new technology, producing a sportswear garment from a dozen or so mineral water bottles. The company has been favored by many international brands. Our goal is to help enterprises like these grow and thrive.

Third, we will deepen reforms and enhance the driving forces for development. Mr. Zhao offered a detailed introduction to our measures to comprehensively deepen reforms and expand openness. I'll now elaborate on two specific initiatives. One is further enhancing efforts to create a superior business environment this year. The key is to allow business entities to fully exert their roles and functions and let them fully engage in the entire process of formulating policies, resolving issues, and evaluating policies, thereby enhancing the sense of gain among enterprises. The other is to further promote the development of the core region of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. On the ninth day of the first lunar month, which falls on Feb. 18 this year, we initiated the construction of an ethylene project in Gulei, Zhangzhou, a collaboration between China and Saudi Arabia with a total investment of 44.8 billion yuan, making it the largest foreign-invested project in Fujian to date. This is just a glimpse of the achievements made in building the core region of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. I believe that through our collective efforts, Fujian's economy will continue to improve.

Thank you all! 

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine: 

Fujian is the first national ecological civilization pilot zone. It is a "green" province. Could you share with us Fujian's practices and measures taken to preserve its ecology and environment? Thank you.

Zhao Long:

Thanks for your appreciation of Fujian's eco-environment. I will answer this question. 

This last question concerns the eco-environment, which is an important issue and an advantage of Fujian. General Secretary Xi Jinping once pointed out that ecological resources are Fujian's most valuable assets, and ecological advantages are its best competitive edge, which make it crucial for the province to exert the greatest efforts to advance ecological civilization. Fujian takes great pride in its eco-environment and feels the weight of its responsibilities for ecological conservation. During his tenure in Fujian, the general secretary laid out a visionary strategic plan for building Fujian into an ecological province. Major media outlets recently reported that when working in Fujian, the general secretary advanced the ecological transformation of Yundang Lake in Xiamen, inland waterways in Fuzhou, and Mulanxi River in Putian, and promoted soil erosion control in Changting county, among many other important practices, and helped the province achieve remarkable ecological progress. Today, Fujian boasts clear blue skies and a poetic land of greenery. It's truly a natural gallery and a paradise on earth.

To advance human civilization, we must pursue ecological progress. We know deeply that a sound ecosystem is fundamental to a thriving civilization. We must respect nature, abide by its laws, and protect it. We understand that mountains, waters, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands, and deserts form a community of life whose ecosystems must be conserved systematically to promote ecological progress. We also appreciate that lush mountains and lucid waters are invaluable assets. A superb eco-environment is a public good that benefits all and offers the most equally accessible form of welfare. People are happy to live amid green mountains and clear waters, while these natural assets can be transformed into social and economic wealth.

While doing our work, we gained a deep understanding that the eco-environment is of great importance and is extremely fragile, so we have to protect it like we protect our eyes, preserve the mountains, waters, and vegetation across Fujian, and always take pride in our lush mountains and lucid waters. What we do mainly involves three things. First, we will promote green and low-carbon development. We will continue accelerating the green transformation of the industrial structure, energy structure, transportation modes, and urban-rural development. Green lifestyles involving consumption, housing and transportation will be strongly encouraged. We will promote the recycling of resources, striving to create a resource-saving and environmentally-friendly society. Second, we will make efforts to keep our skies blue, waters clear, and lands clean. Last year, the Central Environmental Protection Inspection Team carried out a thorough inspection of Fujian, discovering unsolved problems in pollution prevention and control. Prompted by inspection and rectification requirements, we will deepen environmental improvement and defuse hidden pollution risks. We are currently working on formulating a plan for this purpose. After rectification, Fujian's eco-environment will experience another significant improvement. We will be able to create a beautiful homeland with amazing sights of blue skies and white clouds, starry nights, clear waters and green shores, fish swimming merrily, azure seas and silver beaches, dolphins chasing waves, a picturesque countryside and more livable environment. Third, we will make more efforts to protect and restore the eco-environment and optimize territorial space development pattern. Fujian has proposed creating beautiful cities, villages, rivers, lakes and bays, as well as green, low-carbon industrial zones. We will continue to take a holistic and systematic approach to conserving and improving mountain, water, forest, farmland, grassland, and sandy land ecosystems in the Minjiang River Basin and Jiulong River Basin. These two rivers are the mother rivers of Fujian, and we must preserve them well to better benefit the people. Also, we will improve the nature reserve system centering around the Wuyishan National Park to improve the diversity, stability and sustainability of the ecosystem.

Fujian's mountains and waters have taken on a new look. An excellent eco-environment and profound culture make up the stunning beauty of Fujian and make it an attractive place for refreshing and enjoyable experiences. We earnestly welcome people from home and abroad to visit Fujian and explore the exquisite mountains and waters, the vast sea and clear, blue sky, as well as our ancient red-brick houses and sacred revolutionary sites. "Refreshing Fujian" will undoubtedly live up to your expectations of a distant and poetic land. This is my final answer. Thank you, everyone!

Chen Wenjun:

Thank you, Mr. Zhao. Thank you, all speakers and journalists. Today's press conference concludes now. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Zhang Rui, Wang Wei, Qin Qi, Liu Sitong, Xu Xiaoxuan, Wang Yanfang, Lin Liyao, Ma Yujia, Wang Ziteng, Cui Can, Liu Caiyi, Wang Qian, Yan Xiaoqing, Li Huiru, Zhang Junmian, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.