The Chongchuan Economic Development Zone, established in Nantong, Jiangsu province in 1993, has experienced rapid growth over the years.

Originally covering 1.08 square kilometers, the planned area has expanded to 39.2 square kilometers, while the population has grown from 10,000 to 130,000 residents. Industrial output has surged from less than 300 million yuan ($41.26 million) to a remarkable 36.58 billion yuan, increasing more than one-hundred-fold since its inception.

In the 21st century, especially in recent years, the focus of CCEDZ has been on developing three key industries: electronic information, intelligent equipment, and new materials. Additionally, efforts are underway to foster emerging industries such as digital software, smart vehicle networking, and pharmaceuticals.

Among the stand-out enterprises specializing in emerging industries, Tongfu Microelectronics, established in 1994, has evolved into a leading company in the global integrated circuit packaging and testing industry.

"Over the past three years, we have successfully attracted and implemented 32 major industrial projects," stated Yan Jingxiang, a member of the standing committee of the CPC Chongchuan district committee.

By the end of 2023, CCEDZ was home to 196 technology-based small and medium-sized enterprises, 119 national high-tech enterprises, 23 specialized and new enterprises, and four listed companies.

In 2023, the zone achieved a high-tech output value of 27.45 billion yuan, accounting for 81.4 percent of the total industrial output value, solidifying its reputation as an innovation hub in Chongchuan district.

The Zhongguancun Information Valley in CCEDZ. [Photo/Nantong Daily]