In a coastal exhibition hall in Xiamen lies a faded blue binder – a time capsule of ambition. This 300-page document, preserved like treasure, reveals how a young Xi Jinping planted seeds for China’s future as vice mayor in 1985. 🌱
From Port City to Powerhouse
When Xi took office, Xiamen faced an identity crisis. The newly expanded Special Economic Zone sparked debates: Should it mimic Singapore? Compete with Hong Kong? Xi proposed a radical idea – think 15 years ahead, not just five. 🗺️
The 'Big Picture' Playbook
While others focused on quick wins, Xi mobilized 100+ experts to draft China’s first city-level 15-year plan. 'We needed systemic thinking, not just roads and bridges,' recalls planner Zheng Jinmu. The blueprint covered everything from port logistics to cross-strait relations. 📈
Crowdsourcing Innovation
Xi didn’t just consult economists. He launched a public essay campaign – 'Xiamen in 2000' – inviting ideas from engineers, teachers, and dockworkers. The result? A vision blending global ambition with local character. ✍️
Free Port Revolution
Xi’s 'three-step' strategy (bonded zones → free trade → quasi-free port) became China’s playbook. Today, Xiamen’s port handles $150B+ in trade annually. As Xi noted during a 2024 visit: 'The harvest outgrew our dreams.' 🚢💡
