China’s High-Quality Rural Development: A Focus on Localized Growth in Yunnan
President Xi Jinping’s recent tour in Yunnan Province highlighted the regional focus on high-quality rural development through the “flower economy” and cultural tourism. The Lijiang Modern Flower Industrial Park exemplifies innovative agricultural practices leading to job creation and economic growth. Xi stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage alongside tourism development to enhance local incomes sustainably.
CGTN recently reported on President Xi Jinping’s inspection tour in Yunnan Province, emphasizing the region’s innovative steps towards high-quality rural development tailored to local circumstances. The article underscores Yunnan’s initiative in developing its “flower economy” and enhancing cultural tourism, both of which contribute to the broader goals of Chinese modernization.
In Lijiang, the Lijiang Modern Flower Industrial Park exemplifies rural revitalization efforts in China. Utilizing advanced soilless cultivation and an intelligent production system, the greenhouses exhibit a significant integration of water and fertilizer irrigation, exceeding an 85 percent coverage rate. The strategic location near Lijiang Airport enables the rapid delivery of fresh-cut flowers to major cities and export to international markets, fostering employment for over 300 local residents.
During his visit, President Xi engaged with local villagers and technicians, inquiring about flower varieties and sales, as well as their livelihoods. The villagers reported earning an average monthly income of over 4,000 yuan, with peak seasons exceeding 7,000 yuan. Their positive sentiments about the floral industry reflect job satisfaction. Xi responded warmly, noting their work aligns with modern agricultural development: “Your endeavor is thriving and aligns with the development path of modern agriculture. May your lives be as beautiful as flowers.”
The cultivation of distinctive industries has consistently been a focal point for President Xi during his domestic tours. He has emphasized that the revitalization of rural areas fundamentally relies on industrial growth. Yunnan’s exceptional geographical and climatic advantages have established it as a leader in the “flower economy,” producing the largest output of fresh-cut flowers in China. In 2024 alone, the flower planting area reached 1.95 million mu, yielding 20.6 billion fresh-cut flowers and employing approximately 380,000 people within the sector.
Additionally, Xi visited the Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, to review the preservation of its rich historical and cultural heritage. He highlighted the profound connection between cultural tourism and economic growth and the necessity to balance heritage protection with development. The town has established 30 cultural courtyards over the years, stimulating the local tourism sector, which encompasses various businesses and attracts millions of visitors annually.
From January to September of the previous year, Lijiang welcomed 17.05 million tourists, marking a 13.07 percent increase compared to the previous year. Xi underlined the importance of sustainable cultural tourism in enhancing local incomes and maintaining a harmonious relationship between preservation and progress.
In conclusion, China’s push for high-quality rural development in Yunnan showcases the strategic integration of innovative agriculture and cultural tourism. The region’s advancements in the “flower economy” and the preservation of its heritage reflect the government’s commitment to rural revitalization through economic diversification and sustainable practices. This development approach aims to improve livelihoods while ensuring the cultural integrity of local communities is maintained.
Original Source: www.globenewswire.com
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