A model of innovation for cities

Xiong'an New Area, established as a national-level district, following the example of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone and Shanghai Pudong New Area, is a key initiative of national significance. Its development is a major strategic decision made by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China with General Secretary Xi Jinping at its core, to advance the coordinated development of Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province.

Xiong'an is designed to play the role of an important engine for the region's development by absorbing Beijing's non-capital functions and promoting innovation. With a forward-thinking vision, Xiong'an adheres to international standards and the new development philosophy, laying the foundation for high-standard, modern urban construction in the new era.

Xiong'an New Area's innovation-driven development strategy is focused on institutional reforms, technological breakthroughs and systemic optimization. It strives to unleash its potential through institutional improvements, and focus on technological development which is at the heart of its future growth.

Xiong'an has implemented bold and pioneering reforms, established a streamlined, efficient management structure, introduced a unified administrative and political office system, and adopted a flat management mechanism. These measures are aimed at improving governance efficiency and ensuring smoother operations. The area is also exploring innovative personnel management practices, such as establishing institutions without administrative levels or staffing restrictions, which provide flexibility for key areas of work.

The new area is focusing on nurturing high-tech industries by attracting quality research and innovation resources from Beijing. With the establishment of research platforms such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Xiong'an Institute of Innovation and China Telecom's Xiong'an Smart City Industrial Park, the area has attracted top-tier talents and innovation projects, creating a dynamic ecosystem for technological advancement.

Throughout its development, Xiong'an has integrated cutting-edge digital technology and smart infrastructure to build a smart city. For instance, the Beijing-Xiong'an intercity railway employs BIM(building information modeling) for 3D digital management, and big data and cloud computing to ensure intelligent operations. The city has achieved full 5G network coverage and built smart systems like the "City Brain", greatly enhancing urban governance and integrating technological innovation into every aspect of its construction and management.

A key mission of Xiong'an is to absorb Beijing's non-capital functions, such as universities, research institutions, high-end medical facilities, corporate headquarters and financial institutions. By the end of 2024, nearly 300 central enterprises had established branches in Xiong'an. Major projects, such as the headquarters of China Satellite Network Group, Sinochem Holdings and China Huaneng Group, had been initiated, with universities and hospitals following suit. This relocation not only helps decongest Beijing but also provides a better living environment with high-quality services in Xiong'an.

The large-scale construction projects in the area have also revitalized the region's economy. By the end of 2024, Xiong'an's investments exceeded 770 billion yuan ($106.22 billion), greatly benefiting industries such as infrastructure, construction materials and telecommunications. Economic data show the GDP of Xiong'an — comprising Xiongxian, Rongcheng and Anxin counties — grew from 18.92 billion yuan in 2017 to 40.73 billion yuan in 2023, reflecting rapid regional economic growth.

Xiong'an follows a comprehensive planning approach, working across transportation, ecology and industry sectors to promote high-quality development.

Xiong'an, strategically located in the heart of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, has rapidly integrated into the region's infrastructure. With the opening of the Beijing-Xiong'an intercity railway, the travel time between Beijing West Railway Station and Xiong'an will be reduced to just 50 minutes. As the Beijing-Xiong'an Expressway is completed, it will only take about an hour to drive from Beijing to Xiong'an.

The new city's layout emphasizes the integration of industry and urban life and strikes the right balance between work and living spaces. The city design combines the charm of the Baiyangdian's wetlands with modern, minimalist aesthetics, creating a beautiful, livable environment.

Ecology remains a top priority for Xiong'an. Major projects like the restoration of the Baiyangdian wetlands and the "millennium beautiful forest" have significantly improved the area's ecological environment. Baiyangdian's water quality has improved from an inferior grade V to grade III, creating a picturesque landscape of clear water and green shores. Xiong'an has planted afforested more than 470,000 acres, increasing the forest cover from 11 to 34 percent.

The ecological layout follows a vision of"300 meters of greenery, 1 kilometer of parks, and 3 km of forest". The harmonious relationship between people and nature is evident in the region's rapidly developing environment, attracting people seeking a peaceful and balanced life.

Xiong'an is accelerating the development of emerging industries, including satellite internet and information and communications technology. As more high-end companies and innovative resources converge in the area, Xiong'an is poised to become a national leader in technological innovation. The new city has been attracting talents because it offers good employment opportunities and high-quality public services, which have contributed to its growing population.

The successful completion of public service projects, such as schools and hospitals, has improved local education and healthcare services. As the city's functions continue to improve, it is on track to becoming a model for modern urban development that blends industry and city living, offering an ideal environment for work and life.

In a short period, Xiong'an has made significant progress through institutional innovation, comprehensive development across multiple sectors, and regional collaboration. The achievements so far demonstrate the power of the new development philosophy. Xiong'an is steadily growing into a vibrant modern city and a new engine for the coordinated development of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei.

With ongoing construction and deepening reforms, the area will continue to stimulate innovation and provide strong momentum for high-quality development. Moving forward, Xiong'an is set to become a model for urban development in the new era, offering lessons that can be replicated and scaled for cities across China.

The author is president of the Capital University of Economics and Business.

The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

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