The Outline of the Plan for the Reform and Development of the Pearl River Delta

Great Significance of Accelerating the Reform and

Achievements of the Reform and Development in

Over the past 30 years, the Pearl River Delta has emerged as a pioneering "experimental field" for market-oriented reforms in China, establishing an early framework for a socialist market economy This region boasts the highest level of marketization and the most comprehensive market system in the country Leveraging its proximity to Hong Kong and Macao, the Pearl River Delta capitalized on international industrial transfers and the reconfiguration of productive factors, leading to the creation of an export-oriented economic system As a result, it has become a crucial hub for exports and a key player in China's opening-up strategy, transforming Guangdong Province from a largely agrarian economy into a leading economic powerhouse.

The Pearl River Delta has emerged as a leading economic province in China, surpassing the economic aggregates of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, thereby establishing a robust foundation for a world-class manufacturing base and driving the nation’s economic and social progress This region features a high concentration of population and economic resources, rapid urbanization, and well-developed infrastructure, resulting in a cluster of modern cities unique to South China Income levels for both urban and rural residents have significantly increased, while a preliminary social insurance system has been established Additionally, various sectors such as education, science and technology, culture, health, and sports have experienced rapid development, leading to the formation of a comprehensive public service system The Pearl River Delta now stands at a pivotal historical juncture, showcasing that development is crucial and that reform and opening-up are essential for building socialism with Chinese characteristics and achieving the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Challenges and Opportunities

The Pearl River Delta's economic development has faced significant challenges due to the ongoing international financial crisis, which has exacerbated existing structural imbalances and led to decreased overseas demand and volatile raw material prices Key issues include low industrial levels, insufficient innovation, environmental pollution, resource constraints, and disparities in urban-rural development However, the region also has substantial opportunities, such as the ongoing transfer of international industries to the Asia-Pacific, increasing regional cooperation, and the rapid formation of the China-ASEAN free trade zone With ongoing industrialization and economic integration among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, the Pearl River Delta benefits from a solid foundation built over the past 30 years, positioning it well for accelerated reform and development.

Great Significance

To stimulate the reform and development of the Pearl River Delta, it is essential to leverage its strengths, address key challenges, and transform pressures into opportunities This approach aims to minimize the adverse impacts of the international financial crisis while fostering rapid economic and social advancement Accelerating development in this region not only supports the transition to a sustainable economic model but also fulfills the urgent national need for continued growth and scientific advancement Enhancing the Pearl River Delta's economic structure will boost China's overall strength, competitiveness, and resilience against global risks, enabling better participation in international cooperation Additionally, this strategy will promote economic growth in surrounding areas and foster a collaborative regional development model By implementing the “One country, two systems” policy, the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong and Macao can be ensured, while innovative systems and mechanisms will pave the way for new pathways and experiences in scientific development.

General Requirements and Developmental Goals

Guiding Ideas

Embracing socialism with Chinese characteristics and guided by Deng Xiaoping Theory and the "Three Represents," the region aims to implement a scientific development outlook while pursuing ideological liberation and reforms It will focus on establishing a modern industrial system, transitioning to a resource-conserving and environmentally friendly society, and fostering innovation through technological advancements Addressing key issues affecting people's livelihoods and promoting balanced rural-urban development will be essential in building a harmonious socialist society Additionally, the region will deepen systemic reforms and enhance cooperation with Hong Kong and Macao, aiming for a more open economic system The Pearl River Delta will align immediate problem-solving with long-term planning to ensure stable economic growth, thereby supporting the prosperity of Hong Kong and Macao and contributing to China's socialist modernization and the establishment of a moderately prosperous society.

Strategic Positioning

The Pearl River Delta is designated as an experimental region to investigate innovative scientific development patterns The state will provide increased autonomy and support for its pioneering efforts to transform economic development models and promote balanced urban-rural growth This initiative aims to establish a path toward civilized development that fosters economic prosperity, improved living standards, and ecological sustainability, ultimately serving as a national model for scientific development.

The region will serve as a pilot area for comprehensive reforms, acting as an experimental ground for nationwide initiatives It aims to undertake bold explorations and innovative trials across economic, political, cultural, and social systems By leading breakthroughs in critical sectors, the region will generate significant momentum for scientific advancement and gather valuable insights for the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The region serves as a vital international gateway for the expansion of its opening-up program, adhering to the "One country, two systems" principle It aims to enhance cooperation and integration with Hong Kong and Macao, striving to create a dynamic and competitive city cluster in the Asia-Pacific By innovating mechanisms for international and regional collaboration, the region seeks to elevate its economic internationalization and develop an open economic system characterized by domestic and overseas interaction, mutual benefits, and a focus on safety and efficiency.

The region aims to establish itself as a premier hub for advanced manufacturing and modern service industries by focusing on high-end development and independent innovation It plans to create advanced manufacturing bases that excel globally in both scale and quality while nurturing internationally competitive enterprises and brands Additionally, the region seeks to develop a robust service industry ecosystem that complements Hong Kong's status as an international financial center, positioning itself as a unique international center for shipping, logistics, trade, conferences, exhibitions, tourism, and innovation, distinct from Hong Kong and Macao.

The region is poised to become a key national economic center, ranking prominently among China's economic areas due to its robust economic strength It will enhance its influence and leadership over surrounding regions by creating a multi-layered industrial community where diverse industries interconnect and support each other with shared resources This interconnected development will not only position the region as a driving force for its peripheral areas and the Pan-Pearl River Delta Region but also serve as a significant engine for the overall economic growth of the country.

Developmental Goals

The region is committed to addressing current and future challenges with resilience and determination, prioritizing stable and rapid economic growth It will promptly implement central government directives to boost domestic demand Specifically, the Pearl River Delta aims to enhance citizens' living conditions, stimulate consumer demand, encourage private investment, and facilitate exports, all in a concerted effort to drive economic growth.

By 2012, the region aimed to establish a moderately prosperous society with a robust scientific development system, significantly upgraded industrial structure, and enhanced independent innovation capabilities The ecological environment showed marked improvement, living standards rose noticeably, and the urban-rural gap was largely narrowed Economic integration with Hong Kong and Macao was furthered, with per capita GDP reaching RMB 80,000 and service industries contributing 53% to growth Urban and rural incomes saw substantial increases since 2007, average life expectancy hit 78 years, and a comprehensive social security system ensured access to basic public services for all Urbanization exceeded 80%, construction land usage per GDP decreased, energy consumption per GDP unit narrowed compared to global standards, and environmental quality continued to improve.

By 2020, the region aims to achieve significant modernization, establishing a robust socialist market economy and an industrial structure that emphasizes modern service and advanced manufacturing industries It will cultivate globally competitive scientific innovation capabilities and foster a harmonious living environment for all residents This collaboration among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao will create a mega metropolitan area with strong competitive advantages Additionally, the region's per capita GDP is projected to reach RMB 135,000, with service industries contributing 60%, and urban and rural income levels expected to double compared to previous figures.

By 2012, an effective income distribution system will have been established, contributing to an average life expectancy of 80 years Additionally, a higher level of social insurance will be accessible to the entire population Urbanization is expected to reach 85%, while per capita energy consumption and environmental quality will align with or near global advanced standards.

Build a Modern Industrial System

Prioritize Development of Modern Service Industries

1 Prioritize Development of Modern Service Industries

The state will enhance cooperation between the Pearl River Delta and Hong Kong and Macao in modern service industries, emphasizing finance, logistics, information services, and tourism Support will be provided for Guangzhou and Shenzhen to establish regional financial centers, develop a multi-layer capital market, and improve comprehensive financial services High-quality enterprises will receive backing to go public and increase direct financing The initiative will also foster internationally competitive financial holding groups, expedite the introduction of a second board at Shenzhen Securities Exchange, and enhance the equity transfer agency system Additionally, efforts will be made to develop financial back-office services and create a robust service base for the modern financial industry in the Asia-Pacific region The region aims to host specialized international conventions and exhibitions to boost their global recognition.

The region aims to establish itself as a premier hub for conventions and exhibitions through events like the Commodities Fair and the China Hi-Tech Fair, while developing modern logistics parks at key locations such as Baiyun and Bao’an Airports This initiative will enhance infrastructure to support world-class logistics centers and solidify the Pearl River Delta as a center for international e-commerce By 2012, the region plans to cultivate national-level bases for international service outsourcing and strengthen the outsourcing service industry Additionally, it will support third-party professional service organizations and accelerate the growth of the human resource service industry to foster nationally influential organizations The region will also focus on nurturing business clusters in the creative sector, particularly in software and animation, and attract large enterprises to establish their headquarters in the Pearl River Delta Furthermore, it aims to become a leading tourist destination in the Asia-Pacific region, with modern service industries projected to contribute over 60% to overall service industry growth by 2020.

Accelerate Development of Advanced

The region aims to leverage existing infrastructure and port facilities to develop capital- and technology-intensive industries, including modern equipment, automotive, iron and steel, petrochemical, and shipbuilding, thereby pursuing a new-type industrialization path It will expedite the growth of the equipment manufacturing sector, focusing on breakthroughs in five key areas: nuclear power equipment, wind power equipment, major power transmission and transformation equipment, CNC lathes and systems, and ocean engineering equipment, ultimately establishing a world-class manufacturing base for complete sets of equipment and technological innovations Additionally, the region will accelerate the development of automotive industry clusters centered on national brands and independently developed technologies.

China aims to establish 2 to 3 leading automakers, each generating over RMB 100 billion in annual output, while creating an international vehicle production hub Additionally, the country will focus on developing essential vessel components, including high-power and medium- to low-speed diesel engines, to build a world-class shipbuilding and repair base with significant capacity.

Baoshan Iron and Steel's acquisition of Shaoguan Iron and Steel and Guangzhou Iron and Steel companies will facilitate the establishment of a modern 10 million-ton iron and steel base in Zhanjiang The region aims to intensively develop the petrochemical industry by constructing 2 to 3 major projects with an oil refining capacity exceeding 10 million tons and ethylene production surpassing 1 million tons, striving to create a globally advanced petrochemical hub Additionally, with state support, there will be a focus on advancing the general aircraft manufacturing and new-energy automotive sectors Efforts will also be made to enhance the fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries, fostering their growth to create new economic drivers By 2020, advanced manufacturing industries are expected to contribute over 50% to overall industrial growth, while the region will manage new production capacity increases and accelerate structural adjustments to ensure sustainable long-term development.

Vigorously Develop Hi-Tech Industries

The region aims to achieve comprehensive development and breakthroughs in key sectors by promoting independent innovation and industrial conglomeration, ultimately establishing itself as a global hub for high-tech industries It will focus on enhancing high-end industries and their connections, strengthening core competitive advantages in high-tech sectors The strategy includes guiding productive resources to advantageous industrial bases and parks, fostering unique hi-tech industry clusters with complete support systems Key areas of development will include electronics and information, biotechnology, new materials, environmental protection, new energy, and marine industries Within electronics, the emphasis will be on software, IC design, and advanced communication technologies, while biotechnology will focus on stem cell research and biomedical advancements The new materials sector will prioritize electronic and environmentally-friendly materials, and the environmental protection field will develop relevant technologies and services The new energy focus will be on wind and solar power, and marine industries will concentrate on marine biology and resource utilization The region will enhance support for high-tech industrialization, particularly in major projects, and accelerate the development of key areas like Guangzhou Science City and Shenzhen's hi-tech belt, aiming to establish national-level parks as leaders in innovation by 2012, fostering 3 to 5 emerging industry clusters with significant annual outputs.

The goal is to establish 3 to 5 multinational corporations, each generating annual sales exceeding 100 billion yuan and possessing significant global influence By 2020, it is projected that the growth of high-tech industries will contribute to 30% of the total industrial growth.

Renovate and Upgrade Traditional Industrial with Advantages

The region aims to revitalize and elevate its industries by leveraging renowned brands to achieve success through quality improvements and structural upgrades It will focus on enhancing traditional sectors such as home appliances, textiles, light industries, food, building materials, papermaking, and traditional Chinese medicine, while increasing industry concentration and product quality The adoption of advanced technologies and modern management practices will facilitate the transformation of these sectors, extending the industrial chain to maximize added value Emphasis will be placed on enhancing the accessory capabilities of industrial chains and boosting product value through increased R&D investment and improved manufacturing processes The region seeks to develop eco-friendly, energy-efficient products while encouraging traditional industries to capitalize on their strengths through brand development Structural adjustments will be expedited to cultivate leading enterprises with prestigious brands, fostering internationally recognized geographical brands in Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, and Jiangmen The strategy includes boosting the technological and added value of export products, increasing the share of national brands, raising industry entry thresholds, and phasing out low-end resource-based industries.

Actively Develop Modern Agriculture

The region aims to enhance agricultural development by focusing on high output, quality, efficiency, ecological soundness, and safety It will optimize the agricultural industrial structure to create a modern system that reflects metropolitan style and South China's characteristics, while maintaining grain production levels and constructing standard farmlands Initiatives will include high-quality rice projects, the establishment of bases for fresh produce, and the development of a competitive horticulture industry and logistics system Additionally, the region will improve farmland conservation, modernize irrigation facilities, and enhance agricultural infrastructure By promoting agricultural science and technology innovations, raising their contribution rate, and establishing national-level modern agriculture parks, the region seeks to optimize productivity Strengthening the joint-stock cooperative system will support industrialization and improve labor productivity, while standardizing agricultural practices and implementing safety management systems will ensure quality from production to consumption Finally, the region will bolster agricultural support systems and pursue international cooperation to enhance its global competitiveness and sustainable development capabilities.

Promote Overall Competitiveness of Enterprises

The region aims to enhance its enterprise composition by phasing out outdated businesses, relocating labor-intensive firms, and nurturing those with competitive advantages and potential It will promote the informatization of enterprises to elevate management standards, while also providing support to struggling businesses and encouraging successful firms to pursue mergers and acquisitions This strategy is designed to create large enterprises with independent intellectual properties and world-class brands, which will, in turn, strengthen the industrial chain and support the growth of medium and small enterprises By 2012, the region anticipates having over 100 enterprises generating annual revenues exceeding 10 billion yuan, with 8 of those surpassing 100 billion yuan, and a doubling of globally recognized brand products By 2020, it expects to have around 20 enterprises earning over 100 billion yuan and a similar number of globally famous brands.

IV Strengthening of Capabilities of Independent Innovation

The region aims to enhance its independent innovation framework by establishing an open regional innovative system that prioritizes enterprise leadership, market guidance, and collaboration among industry, universities, and research institutions This initiative aspires to become the first innovative region in the country, transforming into a key innovation hub and a significant base for translating research findings in the Asia-Pacific region, ultimately boosting its international competitiveness comprehensively.

Facilitate Innovation and Translation of Core Technologies

To support modern industrial development, the region will focus on introducing and innovating key sectors, emphasizing original innovation and the rapid application of research findings to achieve significant advancements in industrial technologies Key areas of independent innovation will include electronics, biology, advanced manufacturing, new materials, energy conservation, environmental protection, and modern agriculture, with an aim to master essential technologies in these fields Major programs will be implemented to achieve breakthroughs in state-of-the-art technologies and promote collaboration among industries, universities, and research institutions on national scientific projects The development of science and technology parks, incubators, and pilot bases will facilitate the industrialization of innovative findings, with a goal of increasing annual patent applications to 600 per million people by 2012, and achieving global leadership in independent innovation by 2020, transitioning from “Made in Guangdong” to “Created by Guangdong.”

Consolidate the Role of Enterprises as Main Players

The region aims to enhance independent innovation by guiding innovative resources toward enterprises and encouraging increased R&D investments With state support, it will implement policy measures to strengthen the independent innovative capabilities of domestic companies This includes comprehensive incentives like pre-tax deductions for R&D expenses and expanding government purchases of innovative products Collaboration between enterprises and universities will be promoted to establish high-level research institutions and technological centers, while also participating in major national projects Additionally, the region will focus on building common technological platforms and innovation service systems, nurturing a group of innovative enterprises with strong capabilities and profitability, and targeting the development of 50 national-level and 10 world-leading key innovative enterprises.

Build Open Regional Innovation System

The region aims to establish a robust regional innovation system characterized by openness, integration, and strong support through enhanced international cooperation and improved innovation capabilities Key initiatives include deepening science and technology collaboration among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, creating zones for joint innovation, and supporting collaborative technology breakthroughs Plans involve developing the Shenzhen-Hong Kong innovation community, fostering cooperation among industries, universities, and research institutions, and accelerating the creation of national-level innovative cities along the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong axis The region will also support innovative development experiments in Guangzhou's national-level development zones, encourage enterprises to establish overseas R&D centers, and attract multinational R&D centers Improvements will be made to the operational mechanisms of innovation platforms, alongside the establishment of an open access system for sharing scientific equipment and information Major innovative platforms, including the Shenzhen National Hi-Tech Industries Innovation Center and the Guangzhou International Biological Island, will be prioritized for accelerated construction.

By 2012, the region aimed to establish 100 innovation platforms featuring advanced operational and management systems, which would include national key laboratories, engineering centers, and engineering laboratories By 2020, this initiative is expected to culminate in a robust and comprehensive international innovation system within the region.

Deepen National-Local Collaborative Mechanism for Innovation

The central government and Guangdong Province are collaborating on comprehensive experiments to foster independent innovation by reforming management systems and integrating national and local resources They aim to create a unified innovative force through major science and technology projects involving industry, universities, and research institutions Initiatives such as the "Comprehensive Model Enterprises for Cooperation" and the assignment of science and technology commissioners to enterprises will be implemented The state will facilitate cooperation between key universities and research academies in the Pearl River Delta, establishing around 100 technological innovation alliances and supporting the development of high-level research institutions and innovation platforms Additionally, the construction of significant scientific infrastructures and innovation projects, including the spallation neutron source and the South China Supercomputing Center, will be prioritized to enhance strategic collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Shenzhen Advanced Technologies Research Academy,will be accelerated.

Reinforce Environmental Construction for

The region will enhance its independent innovation support systems by optimizing financial resources, increasing funding, and improving the financing environment for innovation and business ventures It aims to actively develop intellectual property protection, lease financing, and venture capital, while exploring new financial institutions to foster independent innovation and trial science and technology insurance Strategies for intellectual property and technological standards will be implemented, focusing on the protection and application of intellectual properties and supporting the establishment of industrial, national, and international standards The region will also support the assessment and certification of professionals, such as industrial designers, and innovate talent management mechanisms to attract and train high-end professionals By 2012, R&D expenditures are projected to reach 2.5% of the regional GDP, with the number of researchers expected to hit 280,000 By 2020, a comprehensive, supportive, and open environment for independent innovation will be established.

Promotion of Infrastructure Modernization

Construct Open, Modern and Integrated

The Pearl River Delta is committed to advancing its transportation infrastructure to establish a coordinated and integrated system that efficiently connects with Hong Kong, Macao, and surrounding areas This development aims to transform the region into the most accessible and secure hub for passenger and cargo traffic in the Asia-Pacific Key projects include enhancing the intercity rail transit network, improving railway and expressway connections, and strengthening transport links across the Pearl River estuary Major initiatives such as the Pearl River Delta loop expressway, the Zhongshan-Shenzhen estuary passage, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge will be prioritized to achieve these goals.

The Pearl River Delta region is enhancing its transportation infrastructure by improving the express railway connections from Guangzhou through Shenzhen to Hong Kong, as well as upgrading the urban rail systems in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, and Dongguan Efforts will focus on intensifying the construction of urban public transport hubs and refining the intra-regional transport network Additionally, the modernization of the high-grade waterway network will consolidate port resources in the Pearl River estuary, enhancing the functions of the ports in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai to create a collaborative port cluster that complements Hong Kong's harbor Furthermore, the expansion of Guangzhou's Baiyun Airport and the renovation of Shenzhen's Bao’an Airport aim to boost their international competitiveness and service levels, positioning them as key aviation hubs in the region.

The Delta region, along with the airports of Hong Kong and Macao, will be developed into a cohesive airport system that promotes mutual enhancement and shared growth By 2012, the Pearl River Delta aims to achieve a robust transportation infrastructure, featuring 3,000 kilometers of expressways, 1,100 kilometers of operational rail transit, a cargo handling capacity of 900 million tons at its ports, and the ability to manage 47 million standard containers, alongside significant capacity improvements at civil airports.

By 2020, rail transit operations are projected to cover 2,200 kilometers, facilitating 80 million passenger trips Additionally, ports are expected to handle 1.4 billion tons of cargo and 72 million standard containers, while civil airports will accommodate up to 150 million passengers.

Build Clean, Safe and Reliable Energy Security System

The integration of energy infrastructure in the Pearl River Delta aims to establish a clean, safe, and economically viable energy security system centered on electric power construction Efforts will be accelerated to scale up the nuclear power industry, enhancing its self-reliance and positioning Guangdong as a key national hub for nuclear power and equipment The coal-fired power generation sector will be optimized, with eco-friendly power plants developed along coastal areas and rivers, while integrated projects for heat, power, and cooling will be promoted A balanced configuration of power supply from within Guangdong and external sources through the "West to East Power Transmission" project will enhance grid safety and stability Improvements will be made to the power grid and emergency response systems, bolstering disaster resilience Additionally, the construction of oil and gas infrastructure, including LNG terminals and pipelines, will be expedited to create a regional petroleum distribution center Energy reserve programs will be implemented, and collaboration in the energy sector will be strengthened domestically and internationally The development of new and renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar power, will be prioritized, aiming to establish a modern energy security system with robust supply capacity and efficiency by 2020.

Construct Harmonious Water Conservancy Projects

The construction of water conservancy infrastructure will be expedited, enhancing disaster prevention systems and improving water resource management Key projects, such as the Lechang Gorges and Wantou Projects, will be prioritized, alongside the renovation of major embankments and dilapidated reservoirs Flood control standards across the Pearl River basin will be coordinated, and a monitoring center for meteorological disasters will be established Efforts will focus on protecting aquatic ecology and developing real-time monitoring systems for hydrology and water resources Efficient water supply systems will be implemented, including projects like the Western River water transfer The coordinated management of reservoirs will secure water supply for the Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong, and Macao Water conservation initiatives will be promoted across agriculture, industry, and daily life, aiming for a 97% water source assurance rate in large cities by 2020, while ensuring compliance with water quality standards.

Build Convenient and Efficient Information

In line with the general requirement of constructing a

The Pearl River Delta region aims to break down administrative, departmental, and industrial barriers by enhancing its information infrastructure This includes accelerating the rollout of next-generation mobile communication networks and developing a comprehensive wireless broadband urban network The region will integrate telecom, Internet, and broadcasting networks to facilitate resource sharing and mutual access Additionally, it will establish a public information platform for modern logistics in South China, spearhead the "Logistics Internet," and integrate various communication networks while ensuring information security Coordinated development and utilization of the region's geographic information resources will also be prioritized.

By 2012, Internet usage is expected to reach 90%, with home broadband access at 65% and wireless broadband coverage extending to approximately 60% of the population By 2020, the Pearl River Delta is projected to emerge as a global leader in informatization.

Coordination of Urban and Rural Development

Enhance Construction of Rural Infrastructure

The region aims to enhance the coordinated development of urban and rural infrastructure, focusing on improving rural facilities Key initiatives include advancing safe drinking water projects to increase supply quality and safety, upgrading rural road standards, and establishing efficient public transportation systems that connect urban and rural areas by 2020 Additionally, there will be a push for modern logistics infrastructure in rural regions, promoting urban businesses' expansion into these areas and enhancing urban-rural business chains Efforts will also be made to develop a clean and economical energy system in the countryside, including expanding renewable energy technologies like methane, biomass, and solar energy Furthermore, sanitation projects will be prioritized, with accelerated construction of centralized waste and wastewater treatment systems to improve hygiene and living conditions in rural communities.

Facilitate Urban and Rural Equality of Basic Public Services

The equitable distribution of educational, health, cultural, and social security resources between urban and rural areas will be prioritized, with a focus on enhancing rural public services through government financing Efforts will be made to establish a coordinated public service system that ensures equal access for permanent residents and improves rural compulsory education by implementing stricter hiring standards and introducing a quitting mechanism for teachers Vocational education will be emphasized, alongside strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure and creating a comprehensive public health service system Migrant workers will be granted equal rights to public services, while urban and rural employment will be integrated through a coordinated human resource market The rural pension system will be improved, and social welfare programs will be developed to support vulnerable populations Additionally, public cultural facilities in rural areas will be advanced, and the administration of urban and rural societies will be enhanced to promote overall social welfare and community engagement.

Establish New Mechanism Providing Urban

A comprehensive set of fiscal and financial policies aimed at supporting rural areas and agriculture will be enhanced, including a refined one-on-one urban assistance mechanism This initiative seeks to create a robust framework for urban support to rural communities and to provide industrial subsidies for agriculture Government financial backing for rural development will increase at a rate surpassing regular revenue growth, with a reallocation of funds from land transfer and farmland occupation taxes to prioritize farmers and agricultural needs The establishment of new countryside-focused financial institutions and regional entities will be expedited, alongside advancements in rural credit guarantee systems and policy-based agricultural insurance, particularly for rice, pigs, fishing, and forestry By 2020, a resilient rural financial system will be in place, bolstering urban assistance in education, healthcare, and cultural initiatives, while enhancing the positive impact of urban and industrial development on rural agriculture.

Promotion of Coordinate Regional Development.54 1 Exert Demonstration Role of Major Cities

Optimize Functional Layout of Eastern Bank of

The eastern bank of the Pearl River mouth, centered around Shenzhen and supported by Dongguan and Huizhou, aims to optimize its population structure, enhance land use efficiency, and elevate urban service levels This region will foster the integration of productive factors and promote intensive development while strengthening independent innovation and international collaboration Shenzhen is set to become a hub for advanced manufacturing and high-tech industries, including communications, biotechnology, new materials, and new energy vehicles Dongguan will focus on upgrading its manufacturing sector and establishing the Lake Songshan Technology Industrial Park, while Huizhou will develop its port-related industries, particularly in petrochemicals The area will also prioritize the production of high-end electronics and information products, aspiring to become a world-class electronics base Additionally, modern service industries such as finance, logistics, and cultural services will be vigorously developed, driving the optimization of the industrial structure and positioning the region as a center for services and innovation.

Elevate Developmental Levels of Western Bank of

The western bank of the Pearl River mouth, centered around Zhuhai and including Foshan, Jiangmen, Zhongshan, and Zhaoqing, aims to enhance its population and industrial agglomeration capabilities Zhuhai will leverage its status as a special economic zone and its strategic location to expedite transportation infrastructure development, positioning itself as a transportation hub while fostering high-end elements and innovative growth The city plans to evolve into a modern urban center and an ecological special economic zone, serving as a model for scientific development Key projects include the Gaolan Port Industrial Area, aviation industrial park, and international tourism resort, alongside Foshan's machinery and equipment concentration area and Zhongshan's port-front manufacturing base The region will focus on advancing manufacturing industries, expanding production-oriented services, and developing competitive industry clusters to establish itself as a new economic growth pole.

Advance Regional Economic Integration of Pearl

The Pearl River Delta cities will overcome administrative challenges by implementing innovative cooperative mechanisms and optimizing resource allocation, guided by principles of governmental endorsement and win-win cooperation A comprehensive plan for integrated development will be established, focusing on reforming the administrative, financial, and assessment systems to support collaboration Under the provincial government's unified leadership, a multi-tiered cooperation framework will involve cities, departments, enterprises, and social forces Inspired by the Guangzhou-Foshan integration, the region will prioritize the integration of transportation infrastructure, leading to unified urban planning, shared infrastructure, collaborative industrial development, and coordinated public administration, ultimately enhancing the region's competitive power and optimizing the spatial structure of the Pearl River urban cluster.

The Pearl River Delta will see accelerated development of its inter-city fast rail transit system, alongside the implementation of electronic tolling on expressways and the reduction of tollgates, creating a unified transportation network Energy infrastructure will be harmonized to establish a cohesive network for natural gas and oil products, ensuring uniform pricing across the region Comprehensive planning will be applied to basic information networks, standardizing information exchange and developing shared public databases Industrial planning will focus on regional collaboration, fostering complementary development and enhancing inter-industry cooperation A coordinated regional environmental monitoring and early warning system will be established to jointly address air and water pollution Additionally, collaboration in social and public affairs will promote regional equality in education, healthcare, social insurance, and employment By 2012, preliminary integration of infrastructure and economy is expected, with full regional economic integration and equal access to public services achieved by 2020.

Inspire Accelerated Develop of Areas Surrounding

The Pearl River Delta encompasses the eastern, western, and northern regions of Guangdong Province, along with adjacent areas in neighboring provinces To enhance industrial collaboration, the Delta's influential roles will be leveraged to facilitate the flow of resources and the transfer of industries, fostering a well-distributed industrial cluster Infrastructure development will be prioritized, improving port and transportation systems, including expressways and railways connecting the Delta to surrounding areas Labor-intensive industries will be encouraged to relocate from the Delta, while the establishment of petrochemical, steel, shipbuilding, and energy production bases in eastern and western Guangdong will create a coastal heavy industry belt The northern region will serve as a base for advanced manufacturing Mechanisms for supporting the Delta's outreach to the surrounding areas will be refined, promoting innovative assistance models and pursuing a "dual transfer" of industries and labor Focused assistance will target demonstration zones and industrial parks to stimulate industry clusters, while special customs areas or free-trade zones will be established Additionally, the migration of the rural population to urban centers will be accelerated, expanding local cities and cultivating new economic growth poles in the eastern, western, and northern regions.

Enhancement of Resource Conservation and

Utilize Land Efficiently and Intensively

The region will rigorously implement general and annual land use plans to effectively protect arable and basic farmland while managing the balance between land occupation and supplementation Efforts will focus on renovating low-efficiency garden plots and hill slopes to enhance arable land, alongside intensified initiatives to reclaim and re-farm existing land A scientific approach to land development will be pursued, emphasizing strict protection of arable land, moderate construction occupation, and efficient land use, positioning the area as a national model for intensive land utilization Strategies will include revitalizing idle construction land, protecting coastal swamps, and rationally utilizing land gained from sea filling for non-agricultural purposes, thereby minimizing the impact on existing arable land The region will enforce stricter land demand controls, implement stringent policies for land supply and market access, and promote the upgrade of industrial parks based on concentrated industry and efficient land use Additionally, reforms to the land use approval process will be explored to streamline procedures and enhance oversight, while a mechanism for land income adjustment will be tested to foster intensive land utilization through economic incentives.

Energetically Develop Circular Economy

The region is committed to prioritizing conservation while emphasizing development, focusing on lower consumption, reuse, and resource conversion Efforts will be made to conserve energy, water, and materials, enhance resource utilization, enforce clean production, and establish an economic model characterized by low input, low consumption, low emissions, and high efficiency A target responsibility system will be implemented, requiring energy conservation reviews for new projects Key enterprises will be managed for energy efficiency, with accelerated technical renovations in industrial, construction, and transportation sectors aimed at reducing energy consumption per GDP unit to 0.57 tec The development of national policy-endorsed resource utilization projects, including waste-to-energy initiatives, will be supported Power demand management will be strengthened, and a long-term power conservation mechanism will be established Water use will be controlled, targeting an 80% recycling rate for industrial water by 2020, with cities developing recycled water systems Plans for clean production and circular economy development will be formulated, promoting resource-efficient industrial parks and recycling chains The region will also encourage the production and use of energy, water, and material-conserving products, renewable resources, and environmentally friendly vehicles, fostering sustainable production and consumption practices.

Intensify Pollution Prevention and Control

The region is committed to enhancing environmental management through prevention and comprehensive control, aiming to tackle issues that threaten human health and economic development To achieve this, strict measures will be implemented to reduce pollutant emissions, with a scientifically planned industrial distribution to minimize pollution during industry transfers Wastewater treatment facilities and pipeline networks will be expedited, alongside improved garbage disposal systems Enhanced monitoring of water quality at provincial boundaries and river mouths will be enforced, while cooperation among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao will focus on improving the Pearl River Delta's water quality Additionally, the region will strengthen drinking water source protection, integrate land and marine administration to combat offshore pollution, and establish a robust monitoring system for atmospheric pollution Agricultural pollution will be rigorously controlled, particularly from livestock and aquaculture, and solid waste management will be improved to mitigate soil contamination Stricter environmental standards will be developed, integrating environmental infrastructure and encouraging innovative administrative mechanisms, while leveraging economic tools to foster environmental protection and clarify responsibilities among government, enterprises, and citizens.

By 2012, approximately 80% of urban wastewater was expected to be treated, with around 85% of urban household waste undergoing harmless treatment and a compliance rate of about 90% for industrial waste discharge.

2020, the three figures will reach over 90%, 100%, and100% respectively

4 Strengthen Ecological and Environmental Protection

The region aims to enhance its ecological safety by developing a comprehensive system that focuses on the waterways of the Pear River, significant coastal greenbelts, and the northern rolling hills.

The initiative aims to enhance critical ecological areas by strengthening nature reserves and swamp projects, rehabilitating river mouth and offshore ecosystems, and promoting coastal shelter forests and mangrove developments It will improve forestry management to enhance forest quality and maintain ecological integrity, while also focusing on conserving forests in the Pearl River valley and controlling soil erosion The plan includes constructing urban landscape woods, expanding green spaces in cities, and integrating urban and rural afforestation Additionally, it will establish greenbelts along transportation routes and protect open greens, creating interconnected ecological corridors A graded ecological protection system and a compensation mechanism for the river basin will be explored By 2020, the goal is to achieve 15 square meters of park space per urban resident, cultivate 900,000 hectares of public ecological woods, and establish 82 natural reserves.

Expedition of Development of Social Undertakings

Prioritize Development of Education

The distribution of teaching resources for compulsory education will be optimized to ensure equal access for all children of permanent residents Local public finance will support the expansion of education from preschool to high school, tailored to regional needs A strong emphasis will be placed on developing secondary vocational education, including the provision of free rural secondary vocational programs The Pearl River Delta will enhance collaboration between enterprises and schools, establish intensive vocational training bases, and prepare educational resources to serve a broader area, positioning itself as a key hub for vocational and technical education in South China Additionally, efforts will be made to expand higher education and significantly improve the innovation and service capabilities of colleges.

To enhance higher education in the Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong and Macao's prestigious universities will be encouraged to form cooperative institutions, expanding partnerships with overseas organizations This initiative aims to foster comprehensive, multidisciplinary collaboration in talent cultivation and intellectual exchange, optimizing talent development structures Additionally, support for national key universities will be strengthened, with plans for Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai to establish cooperative higher education institutions with 3 to 5 renowned foreign universities by 2020.

1 to 2 universities that are first class in China and enjoy a leading status in the world.

The region aims to become a model for national educational reform by developing comprehensive mid-term and long-term educational plans It will lead the way in exploring diverse educational methods, transitioning from an exam-oriented approach to one that emphasizes quality education The region will implement reforms in teaching practices and personnel structures, while also enhancing talent cultivation strategies Additionally, it will promote innovative educational methods that honor the legacy of human civilization To support these initiatives, the autonomy of higher education institutions will be expanded, and their governance models will be reformed Efforts will focus on establishing a funding mechanism that primarily relies on government support, supplemented by diverse fundraising channels.

Perfect Medical and Health Services

To enhance public health and medical services, efforts will focus on the construction of institutions dedicated to disease prevention and control, as well as healthcare for women and young children Additionally, there will be a strong emphasis on improving mental health and vocational health services The systems for preventing, controlling, and treating major diseases will be strengthened, alongside health supervision capabilities and emergency response measures for public health incidents Furthermore, the development of basic medical services in both rural and urban areas will be prioritized, aiming to elevate the overall quality of medical care and significantly reduce the inconveniences faced by the community.

The patriotic health movement will be further advanced, expanding the network of national-level sanitary towns By 2012, the region aims to establish a comprehensive medical and health service system for all urban and rural residents, ensuring that by 2020, every resident will have access to high-quality medical and health services.

To optimize medical and health resources, a comprehensive plan will be implemented for large-scale medical apparatuses and testing instruments, ensuring universal acceptance of a single clinic record for patients and mutual recognition of medical exam results among institutions The allocation of large medical devices will be based on the target population's needs, with a focus on supporting grassroots rural and urban communities Additionally, the integration of high-end medical talent training with grassroots service providers will be prioritized The unique strengths of traditional Chinese medicine in disease prevention and healthcare will be fully utilized, leading to the standardization of traditional medicine practices and the establishment of a proactive network that emphasizes disease prevention and health maintenance within grassroots medical institutions.

The reform of management systems and operational mechanisms in medical and health institutions is underway, focusing on public hospital reform The outdated model of funding medical services through drug sales will be eliminated, and a more effective economic compensation system for public hospitals will be established Additionally, there will be a push for the growth of non-public medical institutions, with diversified investment sources for hospitals The region aims to develop a new framework that distinctly separates government roles from social undertakings, administration from operations, medical services from drug sales, and profit-driven hospitals from nonprofit entities, positioning itself as a testing ground for innovative reforms in the medical and health service systems.

Complete Housing Welfare System

The government is committed to actively promoting the development of welfare housing by implementing preferential policies, including land grants and tax exemptions for low-rent and economic housing projects This initiative will involve increased government investment in these areas, ensuring that low-rent housing plays a crucial role in providing secure housing for low-income individuals facing housing challenges.

To enhance housing accessibility, it is essential to refine monetary housing distribution and develop policy-based housing leasing mechanisms This includes establishing clear standards for monetary housing subsidies and implementing a dynamic adjustment mechanism that aligns these standards with fluctuating house prices and residents' income levels Additionally, improving the housing reserve system is crucial, with a proposed increase in the proportion of the reserve taken from employees' salaries to ensure sustainable housing support.

The reserve will significantly enhance housing security and improve the financial capacity of employees to afford housing A policy-based house leasing system will be introduced to address the fundamental housing needs of new employees, as well as mid- and low-income families facing housing challenges, including eligible non-permanent residents.

Improve Employment and Social insurance Systems

To enhance employment opportunities, the policy and service systems will be rapidly improved, implementing various preferential measures that integrate urban and rural employment for diverse labor groups There will be a strong focus on vocational and skill training for rural laborers to boost their employability beyond agriculture, particularly in the Pearl River Delta, which aims to become a national demonstration region for such training Efforts will be made to elevate laborers' vocational skills and establish a top-tier base for skill development and assessment Additionally, policies to support entrepreneurs will be perfected, alongside a comprehensive business service system and intensified training, positioning the region as a national incubator for employment through entrepreneurship The labor contract and collective contract systems will be universally enforced, with improvements to labor security, supervision, and dispute resolution mechanisms to protect laborers' legal rights Furthermore, there will be a strengthened focus on workplace safety and the prevention of occupational diseases.

The region aims to enhance the social insurance network for both urban and rural citizens by establishing a comprehensive endowment insurance system that includes expanding urban coverage and creating individual endowment accounts By 2012, participation rates are projected to exceed 95% for urban residents, 80% for migrant workers, and 60% for rural residents, including over 90% of displaced farmers Additionally, a unified medical security system will be implemented to ensure basic healthcare access for all, while reforms in unemployment, industrial injury, and maternity insurance will broaden coverage and enforce mandatory industrial injury insurance for migrant workers A socialized management system for retirees will be developed alongside a robust social rescue system based on minimum living standards, improving social welfare and disaster response mechanisms By 2020, the region plans to establish a comprehensive and effective social insurance system with adjustable standards to enhance overall coverage.

Construct Harmonious Culture

The region aims to enhance the cultural qualities of its citizens by innovating the teaching of socialism's core values, ensuring these principles permeate national education and spiritual civilization efforts It will promote the rich traditional culture of the Chinese nation and the unique cultural characteristics of Guangdong, while fostering a spirit of innovation, integrity, and entrepreneurship This initiative seeks to cultivate a modern Guangdong spirit that harmonizes material and spiritual development, emphasizes honesty and trustworthiness, and strengthens social morals, professionalism, family values, and personal character Additionally, it will create a learning society that encourages a passion for knowledge and a positive learning environment.

The region aims to establish a comprehensive public cultural service system that spans both urban and rural areas by developing a network of basic cultural facilities at four levels: city, county, township, and administrative village By 2012, it plans to lead the nation in grassroots cultural construction metrics, implementing "ten-minute ride cultural communities" in cities and "ten-mile cultural communities" in rural areas to ensure widespread access to free public cultural services The initiative will also focus on innovative cultural service delivery, enhancing a networked system for sharing information and resources, and creating itinerant public cultural services Additionally, the region will work to uncover and preserve cultural heritage resources, ensuring the protection and continuation of historically and scientifically significant cultural assets.

By 2020, the region will develop a public cultural service system that provides excellent services and covers the whole society

The region is committed to advancing cultural innovation by reforming its cultural system, transforming state-owned cultural organizations into enterprises, and enhancing competitive mechanisms within the cultural industry It aims to create a diverse and market-oriented environment for cultural production and consumption, while fostering a dynamic approach to cultural product creation and service provision Additionally, the region will attract high-end cultural talent, promote the development of exceptional cultural products, and establish strong cultural and artistic brands This initiative seeks to cultivate a vibrant cultural industry system characterized by a positive spirit, unique features, robust structure, and technological advancement, ultimately addressing the varied spiritual and cultural needs of the community By 2020, cultural industries are projected to contribute 8% to the region's overall GDP growth.

Creation of New System and Mechanism Advantages

Innovate Administrative System

In alignment with the goal of establishing a socialist administrative system with Chinese characteristics, the region aims to enhance government functions by promoting simplification, unity, and efficiency This transformation involves optimizing government structure, clarifying the roles of the market in resource allocation, and ensuring that government responsibilities are effectively fulfilled The focus will be on implementing national macroeconomic policies, improving the development environment, and fostering economic growth while ensuring market regulation and social welfare Additionally, the region will strengthen its capacity to manage public security and emergent events, align financial resources with governmental authority, and enhance public service delivery at the city and county levels Clear relationships between vertically administered departments and local governments will be established, alongside measures to assess and audit government responsibilities.

Shenzhen and other regions will lead the optimization of government structures by exploring the "giant department" system, ensuring that decisive, executive, and supervisory authorities work in harmony As conditions improve, this system will expand throughout the Pearl River Delta and the entire province Selected areas will pilot scientific and standardized management practices, focusing on the coordination between organizational structures, financial budgeting, and personnel management to enhance administrative efficiency To support economic growth, administrative divisions will be adjusted, with direct provincial administration of counties tested and the authority of county governments in economic and social matters expanded Reforms will also target towns and townships, empowering central towns with significant populations and economic strength by granting them certain county-level authorities Additionally, towns closely linked to county seats may evolve into county government agencies, while large, urbanized towns will be integrated into prefecture-level city districts Innovations will be introduced in the administration of social service stations and offices, alongside the establishment of a new system for socialized agricultural services.

The article emphasizes the need to enhance government administration and service methods through deepening the reform of the administrative review and approval system It highlights the continuous reexamination and adjustment of approval items, aiming to reduce and standardize administrative processes Zhongshan will pioneer innovative review and approval patterns, while improvements in enterprise registration and the introduction of an informing and pledging method will be tested The Pearl River Delta is set to reform administrative undertaking fees by reducing categories and implementing a “zero-fee” review system A comprehensive e-government platform will be established to facilitate online government services, enhancing administrative supervision and transparency The reform aims to modernize administration, lower costs, improve efficiency, and ensure that government operations are standardized, open, and accessible to the public.

The region aims to create an urban management system that balances centralized sector management with localized general

Deepen Reform of Economic System

The reform of the rural economic system aims to stabilize and enhance the basic economic framework in the countryside by maintaining the existing land contract system and implementing supportive policies This initiative will promote the development of new and specialized peasant cooperatives while creating a diverse range of socialized agricultural services Additionally, it will focus on reforming the collective forest ownership system, ultimately recognizing peasants as active participants in the market.

The initiative will actively promote and enhance the market for rural land contracting rights, while supporting eligible areas in developing a diverse scale economy It will diligently work on confirming and certifying rural land rights, manage the collection and review of various registration materials, and offer inquiry services regarding rural land registration outcomes.

The reform of the land expropriation system will be deepened by narrowing the scope of expropriation and enhancing the compensation mechanism It is essential to adhere to legal standards when acquiring collectively owned rural land, ensuring that rural collectives and peasants receive timely and full indemnities based on the principle of equal pricing for equal land Additionally, support will be provided in the form of employment, housing, and social insurance for those affected by land expropriation Efforts will be made to facilitate the circulation and transfer of use rights for rural collective construction land, gradually aligning its pricing with state-owned land, ultimately fostering a unified land market that integrates urban and rural areas.

The initiative aims to revolutionize housing lot management by enhancing control over housing lots and safeguarding the usufructuary rights of rural households It will explore the relationship between urban and rural construction land, optimizing land use structure and layout The plan includes strengthening agricultural investment systems and establishing a new framework for village-level public utilities through government guidance and diverse funding sources Additionally, it will implement targeted methods for awarding subsidies for public utility construction The initiative also seeks to reform rural credit foundations and develop innovative rural financial services, with Huizhou, Foshan, and Zhongshan leading trials for comprehensive urban-rural development reforms.

The region aims to enhance its public finance system to meet the demands for equal basic public services and develop a major functional area This includes creating a cohesive financial management framework where budget planning, execution, and oversight work in harmony The reform will align financial authority with administrative power, streamline income distribution across public finance levels, and restructure government spending to prioritize sectors that promote service equality Additionally, the region will refine its transfer payment methods and improve the distribution of public finance funds through a transparent and systematic approach Enhanced management of investment projects and increased local authority for project approvals will also be key components of this reform initiative.

And it will ameliorate the system for government investment management, standardize the investing behaviors of government, and conduct the trial of publicizing government investment projects

The region is set to implement groundbreaking financial reforms and innovations by establishing a comprehensive experimental area It will support eligible enterprises in issuing corporate bonds and nurturing equity investment institutions, while also launching a pilot fund for venture capital to enhance the sector Additionally, innovative financing methods for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be developed, including credit guarantee funds and small-sum lending companies The region aims to facilitate RMB-denominated foreign exchange derivatives transactions and improve foreign exchange risk management for various economic entities Efforts will be made to open the short-term export credit insurance market and expand its coverage to bolster enterprises targeting foreign markets Under the national foreign exchange administration reform, the region will also streamline foreign investment regulations and allow selected enterprises to experiment with RMB-denominated international settlements, all while reinforcing internal control mechanisms and financial regulations to mitigate risks.

The region aims to reform its enterprise system by adopting successful management practices from advanced countries, enhancing the operation and supervision of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) Key initiatives include streamlining the entry, exit, and flow of state capital, promoting the transformation of SOEs into joint-stock companies, and fostering mixed ownership economies The focus will be on restructuring the state-owned economy, improving governance frameworks, and establishing a professional manager market Additionally, a robust risk management system for SOEs will be implemented, while collective enterprises will undergo reforms through capital transfer and consolidation The region will also support the growth of the private economy by reducing investment restrictions for non-state-owned enterprises and guiding private investments into critical sectors like financial services and infrastructure Ultimately, the goal is to create a modern legal governance structure for all enterprises, both state and non-state, to drive development and expansion.

The region aims to enhance the market environment by accelerating reforms in the pricing of resource products, including electricity, oil, natural gas, water, and minerals This will involve establishing a pricing mechanism that accurately reflects supply and demand, resource scarcity, and environmental costs Additionally, the region will reform the land supply system, improve bidding, auction, and listing processes for business land, and strengthen the market's fundamental role in resource allocation Efforts will also focus on dismantling administrative monopolies and regional barriers to promote market integration.

The reform of the water administration system will enhance market regulation by integrating administrative law enforcement, industry self-discipline, media oversight, and public engagement Innovations in regulatory approaches will strengthen the connection between administrative and judicial processes, ensuring a normalized market order and improved product quality regulation Additionally, the development of a social credit system will establish a real-name credit information framework based on organizational and identification codes, while implementing mechanisms for enterprise credit warnings and penalties to foster a culture of honesty The initiative will also involve cautiously opening the credit market and reassessing existing policies to ensure a stable and consistent legal environment that regulates economic order effectively.

Advance Reform of Social Management

To enhance the social management system, the region will adopt advanced practices from leading countries, focusing on improving public management structures and reforming grassroots social management This includes clarifying the relationship between government and autonomous governance organizations, consolidating social management resources, and strengthening grassroots management functions The community management system will be enhanced by establishing public resource sharing and integrated management mechanisms Innovative approaches will merge public security, urban management, market regulation, and industrial administration The region will prioritize the classification and reform of social institutions, creating a multi-channel public service supply model that includes direct provision, government purchases, and services from social organizations Encouragement will be given to social organizations and enterprises to participate in public service delivery, boosting efficiency and capabilities Additionally, volunteer teams will be fostered, registration procedures for social organizations will be simplified, and cities like Zhuhai will be supported in piloting comprehensive social management reforms.

The region aims to reform national income distribution by gradually enhancing the share of resident incomes and increasing the proportion of salaries in the primary distribution.

The article outlines a comprehensive strategy to adapt the minimum salary standard in response to economic growth and inflation Key initiatives include enhancing collective salary bargaining systems, ensuring minimum salary compliance, and conducting enterprise salary surveys to boost low-income laborer wages and gradually improve retirees' income levels Additionally, it emphasizes increasing financial support and transfer payments for urban and rural residents, establishing a sustainable income growth mechanism for farmers, and implementing measures to adjust income distribution, ultimately aiming to reduce income disparities among various social groups.

The region aims to advance the reform of the household registration system by implementing a uniform approach for urban and rural residents This includes adjusting the household relocation process to gradually integrate the migrant population into local social management and innovating services for this demographic Conditions for obtaining household registration in medium and small cities will be relaxed, facilitating the transition of regular migrant workers into urban residents The reforms will align with industry transformation needs, enhancing policies for granting registration to skilled migrant employees Additionally, the region will develop a performance assessment system for migrants, promoting their integration into urban life A comprehensive residence certificate system will be adopted, alongside improved management for foreigners and overseas Chinese residing in Guangdong.

Advance Construction of Democratic and Legal Systems

The government will rigorously establish a legalized framework, ensuring law enforcement aligns with statutory authority and procedures to uphold legal authority It aims to foster a culture of interdependence between power and responsibility, enhance public servants' awareness of their legal duties, and implement a robust administrative law enforcement responsibility system Additionally, the government will promote transparency in its operations, strengthen law enforcement supervision, and develop a precise evaluation system for rule of law practices Efforts will also be made to ensure judicial transparency and fairness, while providing legal assistance and relief The government will improve legislative processes by diversifying law drafting channels and instituting public participation mechanisms, including legislative hearings Furthermore, it will establish systems for evaluating laws post-enactment and conduct periodic reviews of existing regulations.

The region aims to enhance scientific and democratic decision-making by refining rules and procedures for major decisions This includes establishing collective decision-making systems, expert consultations, public participation, and evaluation mechanisms Feedback and correction systems, along with responsibility tracing for decision-making, will be implemented Political supervision, participation, and evaluation by representatives and CPPCC members will be strengthened, ensuring better communication with voters The region will standardize the process for gathering opinions from democratic parties and non-partisan individuals, while promoting orderly civil engagement in politics Citizens will be guided to exercise their rights and responsibilities legally, supported by tightened media supervision and the effective use of the Internet for oversight Additionally, the formulation of scientific decision-making procedures will be prioritized, safeguarding citizens' legal rights regarding political information, expression, participation, and supervision Lastly, grassroots democracy will be developed to provide urban and rural residents with broader and more meaningful democratic rights.

Fully Exert Pioneering Role of Special Economic

Special economic zones symbolize the nation's commitment to reform and opening-up In this new era, they will embody the spirit of innovation and reform, serving as a pioneering force in advancing these initiatives both in the Pearl River Delta and across the country These zones will act as experimental fields and models for ideological liberation and the construction of a harmonious socialist society Notably, the Shenzhen Overall Reform Pilot Zone will develop comprehensive reform plans, implement them gradually, and tackle challenging reform issues, aiming for breakthroughs in key areas.

Creation of New Situation for Opening-up and Cooperation

Elevate Level of Economic Openness

The region aims to transform the foreign trade developmental model by optimizing the export structure and emphasizing both goods and services It will lead the nation in enhancing foreign trade modes, tapping into global resources, and developing high-end trade The initiative includes supporting processing trade companies in transitioning from producing for others to building their own brands, while strengthening design, R&D, and marketing capabilities Additionally, the establishment of a national demonstration zone for processing trade transformation will be prioritized The government plans to create specialized customs supervision areas and free trade networks, fostering the growth of the free trade processing and logistics sectors in the Pearl River Delta The region will also focus on developing service trade industries such as finance, software, and culture, and will establish international service outsourcing bases By adopting internationally recognized standards for quality, safety, and technology, and advancing the construction of "electronic ports," the region aims to facilitate customs processes Service trade is projected to represent 20% of the total import and export volume.

The region aims to enhance foreign investment utilization by attracting top global enterprises while restricting low-level, high-pollution projects It will focus on directing foreign capital towards high-tech industries, modern services, and research and development, fostering international cooperation in energy, transportation, logistics, and tourism Additionally, it will promote Sino-foreign equity joint ventures in finance, education, healthcare, and culture, encouraging talented overseas professionals to invest and conduct business This strategy shifts the focus from merely capital to advanced technologies, managerial expertise, and skilled talent, balancing investments between manufacturing and services.

The region aims to accelerate the "go out" strategy by promoting the establishment of manufacturing bases, marketing centers, R&D institutions, and economic cooperation zones abroad for eligible enterprises This initiative will facilitate the collaborative exploitation of overseas resources, international labor service cooperation, and engineering contracting, while also encouraging the acquisition of foreign small and medium enterprises with critical technologies To support these efforts, a comprehensive coordination mechanism will be implemented, enhancing domestic systems for fundraising, foreign exchange review, personnel management, customs clearance, inspection, and project oversight Additionally, offshore assurance systems will be established to provide consular protection, risk management, information sharing, and government coordination By 2020, the goal is to nurture 10 local multinational corporations, each generating over $20 billion in annual sales revenue.

To foster a standardized and internationalized business environment, the region will leverage international practices and actively engage in the development of global standards It aims to strengthen the spirit of contracts, uphold the rule of law, and enhance commercial credit, while establishing a robust legal framework and a transparent, stable commercial system A standardized mechanism for resolving business disputes will be implemented, alongside the cultivation of finance, law, and accounting professionals well-versed in international regulations Additionally, the region will offer efficient services for enterprise registration, business licensing, talent acquisition, property rights registration, and cross-border transactions, safeguarding investor rights and collaborating with Hong Kong and Macao to create a premier global business hub.

To effectively mitigate international economic risks, the region will implement robust mechanisms for early warning and prevention This includes enhancing the monitoring system for cross-border money flows and proactively addressing potential risks associated with international financial cooperation, innovation, and transnational mergers and acquisitions Additionally, the region will remain vigilant against challenges arising from adjustments in international industrial and technological standards, trade disputes, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and global resource prices.

2 Engage in Closer Cooperation with Hong Kong and Macao

The Pearl River Delta aims to enhance cooperation with Hong Kong and Macao by leveraging mutual benefits and strengths in various infrastructures Key initiatives include aligning urban planning, rail transit, information networks, energy systems, and urban water supply The region will expedite the construction of vital projects such as the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong passenger railway and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Additionally, it will focus on developing the Liantang/Xiangyuanwei border port and improving connectivity through expressways Collaborative efforts will extend to the management of ports and airports, as well as the implementation of a comprehensive action plan for the Pearl River mouth area, while fostering customs cooperation with Hong Kong.

Macao is enhancing customs clearance operations by reforming procedures and exploring mutual recognition mechanisms for monitoring results There is a strong focus on intensifying collaboration to combat smuggling and safeguard intellectual property rights Additionally, efforts will be made to facilitate the movement of people between Guangdong Province and the Hong Kong and Macao regions, including the optimization of the “144-hour visa-free visit” policy.

To enhance industrial cooperation, the government will provide robust support to processing trade enterprises from Hong Kong and Macao in the Pearl River Delta, facilitating their transformation towards modern service and advanced manufacturing industries This initiative aims to assist labor-intensive enterprises in transitioning smoothly while helping Hong Kong-invested firms tap into the domestic market, thereby improving their resilience against external changes The implementation of the CEPA will be deepened, promoting collaboration among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao in developing the service sector and reinforcing Hong Kong's status as a global financial, trade, and logistics hub, alongside Macao's role in tourism and recreation The region will focus on staggered development and strengthen ties with financial industries, supporting the stable growth of RMB business in Hong Kong and Macao, and trialing RMB settlement for trade Additionally, the three regions will collaborate on international logistics, conventions, cultural, and tourism industries while enhancing mutual recognition of professional qualifications across various sectors to foster service industry growth.

Delta plans to finance its initiatives through a stock market listing in Hong Kong, with state support for innovative science and technology collaboration This includes establishing mechanisms for cooperation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai and Macao Key cooperation zones, such as Guangzhou Nansha New Area, Shenzhen's Qianhai and Houhai areas, the border regions between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, Zhuhai Hengqin New Area, and the cross-border area between Zhuhai and Macao, will be developed to enhance collaboration in the service and high-tech industries The state aims to leverage the unique strengths of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao to foster mutual benefits and strengthen their participation in international competition.

Collaboratively creating a high-quality living community involves encouraging cooperation among three key sectors: education, healthcare, and social services This partnership aims to enhance medical services, social insurance, cultural initiatives, emergency management, and the protection of intellectual property Additionally, it seeks to provide convenient resources and support for residents, ensuring a well-rounded and thriving community.

Hong Kong and Macao will enhance collaboration with the Mainland to facilitate the exchange of specialized technical talents and improve mechanisms for epidemic information sharing and joint public health responses The initiative aims to establish a labor coordination framework and develop the Greater Pearl River Delta into a sustainable, high-quality living area Efforts will focus on pollution prevention, environmental protection, and the creation of cross-border ecological reserves Additionally, Guangdong and Hong Kong will engage in joint research on clean energy and renewable resources while ensuring the safety and quality of agricultural products and water supplied to Hong Kong and Macao The collaboration will also involve implementing advanced clean energy policies and unified fuel standards to enhance air quality in the Pearl River Delta, alongside promoting a circular economy through material recycling and waste management strategies.

The article emphasizes the need to innovate cooperation modes by enhancing consultation and coordination between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao to promote economic and social development The state will support the expansion of autonomy for these regions in collaborative efforts, encouraging the formulation of regional cooperation plans through mutual agreements To improve effectiveness, joint meetings of administrative leaders from Guangdong with both Hong Kong and Macao will be refined The approach will prioritize market-driven initiatives with government guidance, leveraging the roles of enterprises and social organizations while fostering diverse cooperation and exchange mechanisms among academic and business communities.

Elevate Levels of Cooperation with Taiwan

The Pearl River Delta aims to enhance economic and trade cooperation with Taiwan by leveraging existing Taiwan-invested enterprises This initiative will involve establishing various exchange mechanisms and promoting nongovernmental interactions through associations and commerce chambers Key areas of collaboration will include high technology, advanced manufacturing, modern agriculture, tourism, education, and cultural exchanges The region will focus on strengthening agricultural cooperation, particularly through the development of a business park for Taiwanese farmers in Jinwan, Zhuhai, and a pilot zone in Foshan Efforts will be made to create a favorable environment for Taiwanese entrepreneurs, including the establishment of schools for their children and improved medical services and work injury insurance Additionally, Guangdong's eastern areas will be encouraged to utilize their geographical and cultural strengths to boost trade with Taiwan, further elevating the level of economic cooperation.

Deepen Cooperation of Pan Pearl River Delta Region

The pan-Pearl River Delta regional cooperation will be integrated into the national strategy for coordinated regional development, enhancing collaboration among the eastern, central, and western regions The state and local governments will strengthen guidance and coordination, improve cooperation mechanisms, innovate collaboration models, and establish project responsibility teams to ensure effective cooperation They will facilitate the flow of capital, technology, talent, information, and resources, while promoting industrial cooperation and expediting the construction of inter-province transportation networks centered around the Pearl River Delta Energy cooperation will focus on "west-to-east power transmission," creating a comprehensive power network Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance ecological and environmental initiatives, protect water sources, and prevent pollution Collaboration in science and technology, talent development, intellectual property protection, and tourism will be prioritized, with platforms established for technology and human resources cooperation The construction of information infrastructure will be accelerated to promote e-commerce collaboration Initiatives will also aim to eliminate administrative barriers, establish mechanisms for sharing enterprise credit information, joint law enforcement, and mutual recognition of testing results, fostering a fair, open, and unified market in the region.

Enhance Cooperation with ASEAN and Other

The Pearl River Delta aims to enhance international economic and trade cooperation through multi-level collaborations with emerging markets and established economic regions Under the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area framework, it will foster dialogue, coordinate efforts, and build friendly relationships with ASEAN provinces and cities, promoting non-governmental exchanges, economic fairs, and cultural interactions The region will focus on partnerships with advanced ASEAN nations like Singapore in areas such as economy, technology, and talent training, while encouraging enterprises with financial and technological strengths to explore resource exploitation and infrastructure projects in ASEAN countries Additionally, it will promote tourism cooperation and streamline tourist visa processes The Pearl River Delta will also expand its economic ties with the EU, NAFTA, and emerging markets like India, Russia, and Brazil, while enhancing cooperation with Australia, New Zealand, and South American and African nations Utilizing various platforms such as the China (Guangzhou) Export Commodity Fair and the China (Shenzhen) Hi-Tech Fair, the region seeks to elevate its global engagement and foster diversified international economic cooperation.

Mechanism for Securing Plan Implementation

Strengthen Organization and Leadership

Guangdong Province, in collaboration with the State Council, will enhance leadership and organization for the effective implementation of the Outline Plan by developing detailed action plans, defining responsibilities, and refining operational mechanisms Special plans will be created for key sectors under central government guidance, ensuring swift execution of projects aligned with the plan's functional and developmental priorities The focus will be on addressing urgent and significant issues, establishing effective measures to facilitate the plan's success Throughout the implementation process, they will assess new conditions, tackle emerging challenges, share valuable insights, and promptly report major issues to the State Council.

Enhance Integration and Coordination

The State Council's related departments will enhance their guidance in implementing the Outline Plan by formulating specific measures that align with its requirements to support the reform and development of the Pearl River Delta region They will actively assist in plan compilation, policy enforcement, project deployment, and system innovation while coordinating efforts across departments Additionally, these departments will improve communication and collaboration to aid local governments in addressing challenges encountered during the implementation of the Outline Plan.

Stiffen Supervision and Inspection

The National Development and Reform Commission, along with relevant departments, will enhance the dynamic analysis and supervision of the Outline Plan's implementation They will collaborate with the Guangdong Provincial Government to conduct regular assessments and report findings to the State Council Additionally, a robust social supervision mechanism will be established to encourage public participation and oversight in the Plan's execution.

The reform and development of the Pearl River Delta region in this new era presents a significant mission and responsibility By leveraging the opportunities from the Outline Plan, we aim to inspire the community, energize our mindset, and embrace innovative thinking Our commitment to progress will be driven by a pioneering spirit and dedicated efforts to enhance the Pearl River Delta's growth and success.