Shandong enhances regional connectivity to drive coordinated development
(chinadaily.com.cn)| Updated : 2025-06-03
Print PrintShandong is emerging as a key hub in China's regional development strategy by capitalizing on its strategic location at the center of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the Yangtze River Delta, the Yellow River Basin, and Northeast Asia. The province is aligning with major national initiatives and advancing coordinated growth through metropolitan clusters, industrial cooperation, and cross-regional connectivity.
Two metropolitan clusters centered on Jinan and Qingdao are developing in tandem, linking major cities with nearby areas. One cluster consists mainly of Jinan, Zibo, and Tai'an, while the other revolves around Qingdao, Weifang and Yantai.
These urban clusters are marked by growing integration in transport, industry, and public services. In the Qingdao area, improved rail links with neighboring cities have moved the region toward rail-based urban integration. Meanwhile, Jinan is expanding its expressway and high-speed rail networks, with routes now reaching more than 360 cities nationwide.
Building on this foundation of connectivity, industrial cooperation is also gaining momentum. The Jinan-Qingdao corridor has become home to major equipment manufacturing bases, joint innovation platforms, and expanding digital infrastructure.
At the same time, Shandong is strengthening county-level economies. In Guangrao, home to one of China's largest tire industry clusters, exports are growing, attracting international buyers and forming a key part of local industrial upgrading.
In the 2024 ranking of China's top 100 county-level economies released by CCID Consulting, 12 locations from Shandong made the list — placing the province at the national forefront. Each of these top counties stands out with its own distinctive industries.
Beyond provincial borders, Shandong is enhancing its external connectivity. In February, the province released a three-year action plan to align more closely with the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and Yangtze River Delta regions. Cities such as Linyi are actively partnering with firms in Shanghai to attract investment and talented workers.
Shandong emerges as a key hub in China's regional development strategy by capitalizing on its strategic location at the center of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. [Photo/Dazhong News]