MEET CHINA Ep 22

In this episode of 'Meet China', we begin by focusing on the Baotou-Lanzhou railway, once threatened by encroaching deserts. Thanks to the relentless efforts of several generations, the use of wheatgrass grid sand stabilization has created a remarkable turnaround, pushing back the desert and protecting the railway. Next, we explore how the Chinese government's “old for new” policy is injecting new vitality into the market. Finally, we visit Qianhai, a Shenzhen-Hong Kong pilot cooperation zone that has become a popular hub for young entrepreneurs from Hong Kong to start their own businesses.

Baotou-Lanzhou Railway and Desert Control: As China's first railway to cross a desert, the Baotou-Lanzhou railway has long faced threats from desertification and sandstorms. To combat this, people embarked on the challenging task of sand control, eventually discovering that the wheatgrass square grid method was the most effective. Over several decades, this technique has stabilized more than 1.8 million acres of desert, gradually pushing the desert’s frontier back. The method continues to be innovated, and through the perseverance of generations, the desert has receded and communities have flourished in its place.

Old for New Policy Revitalizes Market: Since March 2024, the Chinese government has actively promoted the “old for new” policy, encouraging consumers and enterprises to replace and upgrade large-scale goods such as home appliances, automobiles, and housing equipment. With unprecedented incentives, this policy supports green development, energy conservation, and a circular economy, creating new opportunities to boost production efficiency and stimulate economic growth.

Qianhai: A Hub for Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Since its establishment in 2010, Qianhai, a Shenzhen-Hong Kong pilot cooperation zone, has introduced over 800 institutional innovations in investment, trade, financing, and legal frameworks to deepen reform and opening-up. Young entrepreneurs like Roger Yao from Hong Kong have been inspired by this environment. Yao’s company develops intelligent security systems, including smart hats and watches, to improve worker safety. Similarly, Cindy Lin has launched a startup featuring a 24-hour unmanned food vending machine offering authentic Hong Kong cuisine. Qianhai continues to attract innovative talents eager to turn their ideas into reality.