From Mahnoor Makhdoom
Zhuhai: Zhuhai’s Hengqin New Area has recently captured international attention as a hub of rapid infrastructure development and a rising e-commerce powerhouse. Foreign journalists from South Korea, Pakistan, Central Asia and Europe visited Hengqin to observe the region’s transformation and witness firsthand how it is positioning itself as a key player in China’s economic growth.
Hengqin, a part of Zhuhai located near Macau, has been designated as a special economic zone and is an integral part of the Greater Bay Area development initiative. Its strategic location and investment in cutting-edge infrastructure have made it a focal point for industries ranging from tourism and finance to advanced technology. The journalists were struck by the rapid development of roads, bridges, and urban infrastructure that have transformed Hengqin into a modern and bustling economic hub. One of the most significant projects the journalists observed was the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. This engineering marvel, which connects these major cities, not only improves transportation but also strengthens the region’s role in international trade and commerce. It has boosted Hengqin’s accessibility, linking it to other key cities in the Pearl River Delta, making it an attractive destination for both investment and tourism.
E-Commerce Development in Hengqin
Beyond its physical infrastructure, Hengqin has become a leader in China’s booming e-commerce sector, especially in cross-border trade. Foreign journalists visiting the area were introduced to the advanced e-commerce platforms and logistics systems that have helped Hengqin become a key player in global digital trade. These innovations allow businesses in Hengqin to operate efficiently on a global scale, tapping into international markets with ease.
During their visit, the journalists learned about Hengqin’s role in the Guangdong Province’s rapidly expanding cross-border e-commerce industry. In the past year, Guangdong’s e-commerce trade volume reached a staggering 843.3 billion yuan, with Hengqin contributing significantly to this success. The region’s modern infrastructure has allowed it to thrive in the digital economy, supporting seamless trade across borders.
The foreign journalists, were impressed by Hengqin’s ability to blend traditional infrastructure with advanced technological developments. The region’s efforts to integrate physical and digital economies are positioning it as a model for other cities in China and beyond. The delegation was particularly taken by the region’s efficiency in logistics, smart warehouses, and digital payment systems, which have made Hengqin an attractive destination for global e-commerce businesses.
Hengqin’s rapid growth in both infrastructure and e-commerce is setting the stage for continued development in the coming years. The visiting journalists recognized the region’s ambition to become a major international trade hub, with its combination of modern physical infrastructure and digital trade platforms. The advancements in Hengqin signal a bright future, where the region will continue to lead in cross-border e-commerce, innovation, and global trade.
As Hengqin continues to attract global attention, its development model serves as an example of how cities can successfully adapt to the demands of the modern digital economy. The foreign journalists left with a clear sense of Hengqin’s strategic importance, not only for Zhuhai but for the entire Greater Bay Area, as it continues its rise as a key player in China’s economic landscape.
