An electrodeposited nickel production line at Jinchuan Group in Jinchang, Gansu province. [Photo/WeChat account: jinchuanjituan]

In the first quarter of this year, Gansu's economy grew by 5.9 percent, outpacing the national average by 0.9 percentage points, with the industrial sector contributing 42 percent to this growth.

Gansu's shift from extensive expansion to quality and efficiency reflects a new development path centered on innovation, sustainability, and value. In Jinchang, known as "China's Nickel Capital," Jinchuan Group's automated nickel refining line has significantly reduced production costs while achieving near-zero waste emissions.

Aligned with the "dual carbon" goals, Lanzhou Petrochemical is accelerating the transformation and upgrading of its ethylene renovation project, which, once completed, will provide strong momentum for the broader upgrading of the petrochemical industry.

The province is moving from single-capacity expansion to integrated chain development, combining industry, supply, and innovation chains. In Jinchang, comprehensive utilization of industrial waste has turned what was once idle slag into valuable resources, enabling the extraction of gold, silver, copper, and other precious metals.

Gansu is also transitioning from traditional factor-driven growth to innovation-powered development. Emerging industries like new energy and materials are thriving, transforming old production lines with smart, green, and high-end upgrades.

Lanzhou Ion Therapy Co has started the year with a sprint, focusing on the production of carbon ion therapy systems and the miniaturization of research and development.

The province's proactive integration into the national market, leveraging abundant wind and solar resources, positions it as a key player in renewable energy.

Gansu's transformation not only fuels its own growth but also injects momentum into China's economic future.