By CGTN's Meng Qingsheng
The provincial government of Sichuan officially launched its Pilot Free Trade Zone, with an FTZ service center set up in the province's capital city, Chengdu. The FTZ covers three different areas in the cities of Chengdu and Luzhou, covering 120 square kilometers.
Sichuan FTZ covers three areas in two cities
The two cities included in the pilot FTZ program have clear divisions of responsibility. Chengdu takes care of developing modern service industries, high-end manufacturing, and international logistics services, based on the existing air and railway network. Luzhou focuses on growth in the shipping industry, education and medical services, as well as food and beverage production.
Luzhou city specializes in the shipping industry. The FTZ program will provide a boost to its education and medical services, as well as food and beverage production / CGTN Photo
Starting from today, companies from across the world can enjoy more favorable policies to do business and invest in Sichuan's free trade zone, including lower taxes, greater business opportunities, and adequate legal support. To better serve companies and individuals, the FTZ center provides services in 55 different languages. It also involves big data analysis to streamline its work and customize its programs.
Sichuan FTZ service center provides services in 55 different languages / CGTN Photo
First FTZ in Western China
This is the third time that China has launched a series of FTZ programs since 2013. Previously, such programs focused on cities in eastern and coastal regions, such as Shanghai and the southern province of Guangdong. But this time, three of the seven areas -- Shaanxi, Chongqing and Sichuan -- are located in western China. Experts point out this is a continuation of national policies introduced to help develop the west, an initiative launched in 2000.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is biggest of its kind in western China in terms of traffic volume / CGTN Photo
Sichuan FTZ to benefit more from national strategies
Given its location, Sichuan Province will also benefit from the growth of the Yangtze River economic belt, by working with cities along the river. Additionally, as a traffic hub, the province will promote the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, providing more business opportunities with countries in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Railway system at Qingbaijiang District links Sichuan Province to Lodz in Poland / CGTN Photo
To fulfill the target, a key word is innovation. The local government has pledged to make innovations in 159 areas, to transform government functions, regulate trade facilitation and promote financial reforms.
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