进步最快的百强市，慢了？

Core Insights - Inner Mongolia has released a significant document titled "Comprehensive Promotion of Beautiful Inner Mongolia Construction to Strengthen the Ecological Security Barrier in Northern China Planning Outline (2025-2035)" which emphasizes the development of Baotou as a key industrial city [1] - Baotou aims to enhance urban development, focusing on the construction of the Hohhot-Baotou-Ordos-Yulin urban cluster and the high-quality development of the Hohhot-Baotou-Ordos-Ulanqab region [1] - The city is set to develop a large-scale wind power base and become the largest rare earth new materials base in China, leveraging its rich resources [1] Economic Performance - In the first three quarters of this year, Baotou's industrial added value growth rate was 9.9%, marking the end of a 60-month streak of double-digit growth [2][5] - Baotou's GDP is projected to reach 457.51 billion yuan in 2024, with an 8.1% growth rate, continuing to lead among China's top 100 cities [2][3] - From 2020 to 2024, Baotou's GDP has increased from 276.97 billion yuan to 457.51 billion yuan, moving up in national rankings from outside the top 100 to 72nd place [2] Industrial Development - Baotou's industrial growth is primarily driven by its traditional heavy industries, including rare earths, polysilicon photovoltaic, steel, and aluminum, which are now valued at over 1 trillion yuan [2][10] - The rare earth industry in Baotou has seen a 19.7% increase in added value in the first three quarters, contributing significantly to overall industrial growth [12] - The city is also focusing on expanding its renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and wind power, to create a comprehensive industrial system [10][11] Infrastructure and Transportation - Baotou is prioritizing transportation infrastructure as part of its development strategy, with plans for high-speed rail connections to enhance regional integration [17][18] - The ongoing construction of the Baotou-Yinchuan high-speed rail is expected to improve connectivity and support industrial upgrades [18] - The establishment of a modern transportation network is seen as crucial for Baotou to leverage its industrial strengths and enhance its position within the urban cluster [18] Strategic Goals - Baotou has set a target to achieve a GDP of around 500 billion yuan by 2025, indicating ambitious growth plans despite current economic challenges [3][6] - The city aims to return to its historical peak GDP ranking, which was 41st in 2010, by addressing structural challenges and enhancing innovation capabilities [7][13] - The local government is focusing on integrating technological innovation with industrial development to strengthen its economic foundation [13]