Zhejiang province, now China's 'pioneer of modernization,' showcases models for tech innovation, common prosperity, and environmental sustainability, with Hangzhou at its core.
Zhejiang designated as modernization pioneer
Zhejiang province has been officially named the "pioneer of Chinese-style modernization" by President Xi Jinping. This designation followed his visit in September 2023 and was formally adopted by provincial authorities in December 2023. The province is now expected to serve as a model for other regions in China.Zhejiang's economic strength
Zhejiang's economy is robust, with a GDP of about $1.32 trillion in 2025, placing it fourth in China. Its per capita GDP of nearly $20,000 ranks it fifth nationally. The province has historically been more developed than many other regions, with Hangzhou, its capital, home to major high-tech companies like Alibaba and DeepSeek.Origins of the Two Eights Strategy
President Xi Jinping introduced the "Two Eights Strategy" (Ba Ba Zhanlüe) in 2003 while serving as Zhejiang's Party secretary. This strategy included eight measures to boost economic growth by leveraging the province's existing advantages. Several of these have since been adopted at the national level and are now part of China's broader modernization goals.Modernization goals and priorities
In 2021, President Xi declared that China had achieved the "first centenary goal" of moderate prosperity. Now, the focus is on transitioning to the "second centenary goal" of becoming a "great socialist modern country" by 2049. This phase emphasizes development across economic, political, cultural, social, and ecological spheres, with an emphasis on common prosperity and sustainable growth.Zhejiang's model for development
Zhejiang's experiences in high technology, talent development, rural revitalization, and environmental protection are being highlighted as models for other provinces. For example, Hangzhou has become a hub for e-commerce and high-tech industries, aided by initiatives like the "Digital Zhejiang" project, which supports the growth of tech startups.Talent and rural development strategies
Zhejiang's "Three Teams" (sanzhi duiwu) strategy, which focuses on high-level cadres, innovative entrepreneurs, and skilled workers, has been promoted nationally. Additionally, the province's rural revitalization project, initiated by Xi Jinping in 2003, has been endorsed by the central government to ensure food security and prevent a return to poverty.Cultural and environmental influence
Zhejiang's emphasis on cultural development and environmental protection has influenced other regions. The "Two Mountains Theory" (liangshan linian), which promotes harmony between humanity and nature, has been adopted in other areas. Policies inspired by Zhejiang's "Two Eights Strategy" now support high-quality development and common prosperity nationwide.International role and challenges
Zhejiang has played a significant role in China's internationalization strategy, exemplified by hosting the G20 summit in Hangzhou in 2016. Study tours to the province have increased, with delegations from Hong Kong and Macao learning from its modernization practices. However, replicating Zhejiang's success in other regions faces challenges, including economic disparities and the risk of redundant industrial development.
