The 16th Rudong Coastal Economic Development and Cooperation Conference is held in Rudong county, Nantong. [Photo/WeChat account: rudongfb]

On Nov 20, the 16th Rudong Coastal Economic Development and Cooperation Conference took place, marking a significant milestone in the region's economic growth. During the event, agreements were signed for 30 projects with a total investment of 21 billion yuan ($2.9 billion). Among these, six projects are focused on marine industries.

A key highlight of the conference was the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement between the Rudong government and the Nantong Branch of the National Innovation Center par Excellence. The inauguration of the Rudong base of NICE's Nantong branch further strengthens the county's efforts to attract high-quality innovation resources in Rudong.

Chen Huiyu, Party secretary of Rudong, remarked that in recent years, the county has prioritized the development of the marine economy as a central component of its strategy for fostering new quality productive forces and advancing sustainable economic growth. The county's three pillar industries — new energy, new materials, and new equipment — have exceeded a combined output value of 150 billion yuan. Looking forward, Rudong plans to capitalize on its strengths in the real economy, port infrastructure, and openness to drive future economic expansion.

Chen Lei, head of Rudong, presented an action plan outlining ambitious goals for 2030, outlining key objectives to bolster the region's marine economy. The plan includes the establishment of seven major marine industries, the development of three marine-themed industrial parks, the creation of 15 R&D platforms at the provincial level or higher, and the nurturing of 20 leading enterprises. The plan aims to boost the marine industry's added value to over 80 billion yuan, accounting for 40 percent of GDP, significantly enhancing Rudong's overall marine economic strength.