A rendering of Tongzhou Bay demonstration area in Nantong [Photo/Xinhua]

A foundation laying ceremony for eight projects was held in Tongzhou Bay demonstration area, Nantong, on April 18. 

The projects will cost more than 5 billion yuan ($706 million) in total to build and include six industries - special vehicles manufacturing, automotive parts, refrigerating equipment, new-type curtains, and high-end life protection items.

The production center for high-end life protection items, funded by Xinzhi Technology, will receive 2 billion yuan in investment and will be the largest of its kind in China upon completion.

The commencement ceremony was the first of its kind in the area since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus and aimed to attract investment and accelerate local development.

As the epidemic subsides in the country, the local government is preparing to attract more investment. A total of 38 projects have been signed in the area, worth about 30 billion yuan in total.

Tongzhou Bay is located in the estuary of the Yangtze River, surrounded by a harbor and plants. The convenient location has made it a beacon for the shipping, port and high-end equipment manufacturing industries.