“竞”四海 逐未来——四探“七虎”竞南通

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant growth and transformation of Nantong's economy, driven by strategic partnerships, industrial upgrades, and a focus on international trade, particularly in the context of the "Belt and Road" initiative and high-level openness in the Yangtze River Delta region [5][10][36]. Group 1: Economic Growth and Trade - Nantong's foreign trade import and export scale has increased significantly, surpassing 400 billion yuan for the first time, with a year-on-year growth of 15.9% in the first eleven months of 2025 [10][11]. - The city's export of shipbuilding and marine engineering equipment accounts for one-tenth and one-fourth of the national total, respectively, with a 104% year-on-year increase in marine engineering exports [10][11]. - The proportion of high-tech product exports has risen from 14.1% to 22.9%, while traditional labor-intensive products have decreased from 27.3% to 24.1% [11]. Group 2: Strategic Partnerships and Investments - Nantong signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with JD Group to optimize logistics and enhance trade, which has led to successful overseas promotional events attracting over 50 Middle Eastern buyers [2][5]. - The establishment of Scania's production base in Rugao, with an investment of 20 billion euros, marks a significant foreign investment project aimed at meeting local market demands [13][14]. - The total investment of 500 billion yuan in the China National Petroleum Corporation's Blue Ocean New Materials project is indicative of the rapid industrial development in the region [6][34]. Group 3: Industrial Transformation and Upgrades - Nantong is transitioning from a logistics-focused port to an industry-driven port, enhancing its resilience against external shocks and establishing itself as a crucial part of the global supply chain [9][10]. - The region is witnessing a shift towards high-end manufacturing, with companies like YKK AP focusing on high-quality aluminum alloy products, leveraging local industrial advantages [16][14]. - The development of cross-border e-commerce and the establishment of specialized industrial parks are facilitating the growth of local enterprises and enhancing their competitiveness in international markets [19][28]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Challenges - The article emphasizes the need for companies to adapt to changing global economic conditions, highlighting the importance of innovation and market responsiveness in maintaining competitiveness [23][31]. - Nantong's government is actively supporting businesses through efficient service and infrastructure development, aiming to attract more foreign investment and enhance the local economy [35][36]. - The ongoing transformation of traditional industries and the embrace of new technologies are crucial for sustaining growth and navigating the complexities of international trade [20][24].