Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone (WHDZ) in Wuhan, Central China's Hubei province, has been ranked 12th among 219 national economic and technological development zones in terms of overall strength, according to a recent announcement made by the Ministry of Commerce.
The ranking means that the zone is now first among economic and technological development zones in central and western China, and also the only one from Hubei province to enter the list's top 30.
Before the ministry decided on a development zone's ranking, each was evaluated on aspects including its industries, technological innovation, administrative efficiency, and efforts to protect the environment.
As one of the first national-level economic and technological development zones built in central and western China, WHDZ started construction in May 1991, when the Sino-French joint venture –– Dongfeng Peugeot Citroen Automobile, was built there.
After nearly three decades of growth, it is now home to several big-name auto companies including Dongfeng Motor Corporation, Dongfeng Peugeot Citroen, Dongfeng Honda and Dongfeng Renault, and has also attracted some world-renowned auto parts manufacturers, such as Valeo and Getrag.
In 2018, the zone reported annual gross regional product growth of 8.2 percent; a 7.5 percent increase in industrial added value of enterprises above designated size –– with annual main business income exceeding 20 million yuan ($2.93 million), and a 12 percent increase in the value of fixed assets investment.
In the future, the zone is aiming to dramatically expand and upgrade its industries, ensuring it is a leading center for future innovation and manufacturing.
Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone, Hubei province [Photo provided to wedz.gov.cn]
An automobile production line pictured at Dongfeng Passenger Vehicle Company based in Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone [Photo provided to wedz.gov.cn]
