Zone to form logistics hub for Northeast Asia

Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone in Erdao district has become a symbol of the vibrant city of Changchun, capital of Northeast China's Jilin province.

It provides the best footnote for the sea change of Erdao district in its construction of modern logistic industry.

Six years ago, "logistics center" was a name that few residents of Erdao district understood. But now, the mushrooming buildings, roaring machines and lines of cranes are reminding them their dream is fast coming true.

Against the backdrop of the country's efforts to develop the area of Changchun, Jilin and Tumen in Jilin province, Erdao Economic Development Zone was renamed Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone in August last year.

It was upgraded into a provincial-level economic development zone in February this year and it is the only logistics economic development zone in Jilin.

The zone enjoyed a fast growth rate under the government support. Its comprehensive strength has been greatly enhanced.

Its gross domestic products reached 7.9 billion yuan ($1.3 billion) in 2011, three times that of 2006.

Its fiscal revenue was 1.87 billion yuan last year, more than nine times that of 2006.

Its fixed asset investment was nearly 9.6 billion yuan last year, nearly six times that of 2006.

Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone is now a model of fast growth in Jilin province.

Before the zone was established six years ago, the backbone of local economy relied on simple warehouses which provided storage and transportation services.

Now, the zone is home to the largest interior decoration market, the largest flower market, tea trade center, tire market, pottery and porcelain market and paper market.

It has made many "firsts" in the province, or even in the country.

Thanks to the government support and a series of reform measures adopted by local officials, the zone has maintained fast pace of growth.

Innovation is the key word for its future development strategy.

At present, Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone is working hard to cultivate and introduce large-scale logistic projects, chain-store operations and exhibition industry.

More money was injected into the construction of logistic infrastructure.

The zone also spent more efforts to appeal large modern logistic projects such as electronic commerce and logistic distribution.

It has mapped out a plan to become a pivotal logistic center for Northeast Asia.

A series of large trading centers are under construction, such as a large storage and circulation center, a home decoration center, a pottery and porcelain trading center. Most of these buildings are expected to open to business by the end of this year.

Jilin Kaili Real Estate Company started the construction of an industrial products trading center in the zone in April, 2010.

Currently, part of the project - a hardware mechanical and electrical products market, has been put into operation.

Zhao Xin, general manager of the company, said more than 1,000 businessmen have opened nearly 1,400 shops in the market, making it the largest of its type in Northeast Asia.

The success of Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone is indispensable with the overall environment of Northeast China or even Northeast Asia.

With unique geographic location and convenient transportation network, the zone is an ideal choice for the development of modern logistic industry.

Wang Tingkai, Party chief of Erdao district, said the sustainable development of the zone relies on a coordinated cooperation with its surrounding areas.

Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone is adjacent to the other economic development zones in Changchun.

Xinglong Bonded Zone is only about 700 meters from Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone, which means much of the resources of both zones can be shared.

Meanwhile, with more and more companies settling down in a high-tech zone nearby, logistic services of Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone also received a boost.

The zone also serves as a storage warehouse for Lianhua Mountain in Changchun.

The mountain is known for its natural beauty, which draws millions of tourists each year. Thus, demand for food and household sundries is huge.

And most of the green and organic food from Jingyue district can be transported through Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone to the city center of Changchun.

"Changchun International Logistics Economic Development Zone is definitely an important part in the strategic development plan of Jilin province. It will play a vital role in its modern logistics development," said Wang Tingkai.

By 2015, the zone aims to attract 50 large-scale modern logistic companies to set up regional headquarters and realize GDP of 19 billion yuan.

liumingtai@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 11/06/2012 page10)