The China County Development Monitoring Report 2024 was released on Nov 19, unveiling China's top 100 counties in comprehensive competitiveness. Rugao secured an impressive 23rd position nationwide, affirming its robust performance in various domains.

The report evaluates counties using a comprehensive framework that includes economic strength, technological innovation, green development, public welfare, and governance.

China's top counties have an average GDP of 126.78 billion yuan ($17.53 billion), with about 60 percent exceeding 100 billion yuan. They also feature a harmonious balance of high-quality economic growth and ecological sustainability, with an average forest coverage rate of 35.8 percent, urban green coverage of 42.7 percent, and 84.9 percent of days with air quality at or above Tier II standards.

Public services and living standards also showed remarkable improvement. Urban residents' per capita disposable income averaged 60,300 yuan, while rural residents averaged 34,880 yuan. Additionally, the average per capita green space in parks reached 15.75 square meters.

Rugao's high ranking reflects its strong commitment to sustainable development, economic advancement, and the well-being of its residents, making it a standout among China's leading counties.