Move over, big cities! China’s county-level economies are stealing the spotlight with grassroots innovation, tech-driven industries, and a wave of youth-led entrepreneurship. In the latest episode of Meet China, CGTN’s Lily Lyu takes us on a road trip to three regions rewriting economic playbooks – and the stories will make you rethink rural revitalization.
Huangshan: Where Family Legacy Meets Economic Revival
Meet the family turning ancestral roots into community growth 🌱. In Huangshan, known for its misty peaks and UNESCO-listed villages, one household’s vision blends tourism with cultural preservation – proving tradition and progress can thrive together.
Zhuji: The Sock Capital Stitching Tech Into Every Thread
Your favorite cozy socks? There’s a 70% chance they’re from this unassuming county! Zhuji’s factories now use AI-powered looms and eco-friendly materials, supplying 35% of global sock demand. Talk about stepping up! 👟💡
Sihui: Millennials Reverse Migration with Big Dreams
Why flock to megacities when you can build the next TikTok of tea? Young Sihui natives are returning home, launching e-commerce ventures and tech startups – turning their hometown into a ‘rural Silicon Valley’.
🎯 The Takeaway: These counties aren’t just growing – they’re redefining what economic development looks like in 2024. From smart agriculture to livestreamed jade markets, China’s grassroots economies are serving major #SmallTownGoals energy.
