靠铁路起家多年，却没有“C位产业”，东莞常平该如何思变

Core Viewpoint - Dongguan's Changping, once a leading economic town, faces challenges in regaining its prominence amid fierce regional competition and the need for industrial transformation [1][2][3] Group 1: Historical Context and Economic Evolution - Changping was recognized as "the first town along the Jingjiu Railway" and became an economic leader in Dongguan due to its early industrial development and strategic railway connections [3][4] - The town's economic growth peaked in the 1990s, but it has since fallen to seventh place in GDP rankings as other towns like Songshan Lake and Chang'an have surged ahead [1][5] Group 2: Current Challenges - Changping is currently at a crossroads, struggling with outdated transportation advantages, a lack of dominant industries, and insufficient integration of urban and industrial development [1][5][6] - The town's industrial structure is described as "big but weak," with traditional industries facing bottlenecks and emerging sectors still in their infancy [5][6][7] Group 3: Strategic Initiatives for Transformation - The local government aims to reposition Changping as a core engine for high-quality development in Dongguan, focusing on enhancing its hub advantages and fostering a new industrial ecosystem [2][19] - Initiatives include upgrading transportation infrastructure, such as transforming Changping and Dongguan East stations into high-speed rail starting points, which could enhance connectivity and attract high-end industries [16][17][19] Group 4: Industrial Upgrading and Innovation - Changping is working to upgrade its industrial base by promoting digital transformation among existing enterprises and attracting new strategic emerging industries like new energy and high-end manufacturing [20][21] - The town has already seen significant growth in its electrical machinery and electronic information sectors, with plans to further increase their scale and introduce more high-tech enterprises [20][21] Group 5: Spatial Development and Urban Integration - The town is focusing on spatial development by optimizing land use and enhancing industrial parks to create a more conducive environment for new industries [24][25] - Changping's strategy includes improving urban functions and quality to better integrate with the Greater Bay Area, leveraging its geographical advantages to attract talent and investment [27][28]