A cultural tourism base is expected to be established in Gangzha district, Nantong, receiving a total of 38 billion yuan ($5.36 billion) in investment from Sunac China Holdings Co. The project was signed during a conference on the private sector held in the city on March 27.

The base will be built into a world-class complex integrating local culture, tourism, commerce, and hotels. It will include a one-stop experiential commercial center, a cultural town, a cluster of resort hotels, an international convention center, an art exhibition center, and more.

The local government has been resorting to online channels to attract investment amid the travel restrictions resulting from the outbreak of novel coronavirus, which made the signing of the deal possible. To accelerate project construction, a responsibility system has also been established, according to a local official.

During a study of Suzhou's development experiences, local officials were encouraged to develop distinctive industries and take better advantage of local strengths to boost development.

Moving forward, more high-quality resources involving medical treatment, education, entertainment, and commerce are expected to be introduced to the district, in an effort to support the development of core local areas.