[China.com] Luo Laijun: Three Key Points in the Development of Economic Integration in Yangtze River Delta

Prime Minister Li Keqiang said in the government work report that the development of economic integration in Yangtze River Delta (YRD) shall be considered as a national strategy, and its outline of implementation plan shall be made accordingly, highlighting the important strategic position of the YRD integrated economic development even before the completion of its planning.

Compared with other regions, the development of YRD region is way more complicated with big regions covering many small areas, large economic circles covering many small circles. Judging from the boundaries of development regions and economic circles, and their interactions, there are three key points need to be focused on in YRD economic integration development.

First, the development of Shanghai City. As the core of YRD region (Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, and Anhui provinces), Shanghai on one hand must build itself well, on the other hand bring positive influence to the surrounding provinces. Therefore, rational division of functions, differentiate competition, and coordinated development between Shanghai and YRD provinces shall be the guideline in making Shanghai development plan.

Second, the development of YRD region. As explained above, the three provinces and Shanghai city shall be interconnected and mutually coordinated. Given the gaps and differences in their current economic situations, it is not so easy to integrate their development, thus requiring better planning.

Third, the development of Yangtze River economic zone. The Yangtze River running from the west of China through the middle to the east end is a natural economic zone that shall be fully explored. While YRD region with many competitive advantages of transportation and resources is actually the head of this dragon of economic zone, it should utilize the resources provided from the inlands, at the same time feedback and activate the development of the whole region.

Not only coordinated economic development along the Yangtze River regions are emphasized in the government work report, but also the ecological restoration and protection along the river are stressed.

Luo Laijun, Dean of Yangtze River Economic Zone Institute, and Dean of Yibin Branch of NADS at Renmin University of China

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