China encourages cross-region complementary economic cooperation

BEIJING - The central government has called on local governments and enterprises across the country to cooperate more to support mutual economic growth.

In addition to developing industrial zones, regions with different economic conditions could partner with entities to explore financing, technology, brands and management opportunities, according to the guidelines released by the National Development and Reform Commission and other seven government departments.

The government encourages private investors to participate in the development of cross-regional industrial zones that can be operated and managed by professional third-party platforms.

Cross-region industrial zones should promote green sectors and follow environmental protection regulations, according to the statement.

Developed regions are encouraged to set up economic zones in under-developed regions to boost employment and alleviate poverty.

To facilitate the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Shanghai Municipality and Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces are encouraged to set up industrial zones in the river's upstream and midstream areas to seek coordinated growth, the statement added.