Taiyuan, capital of North China's Shanxi province, now ranks 139th in the 2024 GaWC World Cities Index, soaring 84 places since 2020. This rise reflects Taiyuan's transformation into an example of high-quality development, blending legacy industries with cutting-edge innovation.

Anchoring its ambition as a national advanced manufacturing hub, Taiyuan is intensifying its efforts in six strategic sectors: new materials, high-end equipment, internet technology, green energy, low-altitude economy, and cultural tourism.

Giants like Taiyuan Iron & Steel (TISC) and Taiyuan Heavy Industry Group are leading a digital revolution, integrating artificial intelligence and automation to sharpen global competitiveness. The city aims to keep manufacturing's share of industrial output above 60 percent this year.

The Jinchuang Valley initiative is taking shape, with its northern zone focusing on next-gen tech and its southern corridor pioneering low-carbon solutions. These hubs aim to position Taiyuan as a model for tech-driven provincial revitalization.

The Shanxi Transformation and Comprehensive Reform Pilot Zone is evolving into a fusion of urban and industrial growth. At the same time, Zhongbei High-Tech Park is expanding to host specialized clusters – from consumer goods to coal-derived new materials. Meanwhile, Xishan Demonstration Zone is crafting immersive cultural tourism experiences, reimagining the city's heritage for a global audience.

Taiyuan is also nurturing a homegrown tech ecosystem. Year-end targets include 10 new provincial R&D centers, 3,000 small and medium-sized tech enterprises, and 680 high-tech firms. These efforts are expected to integrate Taiyuan into global supply chains.