重庆，又“升级”了

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent administrative restructuring in Chongqing, which has established the Liangjiang New Area, marking a significant shift from an "economic functional area" to an "administrative district" [4][15][29]. Group 1: Administrative Restructuring - The national approval for Chongqing's administrative adjustment has led to the establishment of the Liangjiang New Area, combining the Jiangbei District and Yubei District, reducing the total number of districts from 38 to 37 [6][8]. - The Liangjiang New Area now covers approximately 1,360 square kilometers and has a population of about 3.52 million, with a GDP of 518.2 billion yuan, making it the largest economic and population area in the central and western regions [11][14]. - This adjustment is part of a broader trend among major cities in China, following similar mergers in Shanghai, Chengdu, and Jinan, indicating a move towards enhancing urban competitiveness [9][10]. Group 2: Economic Functionality Transition - The transition from an "economic functional area" to an "administrative district" is significant, as it allows for better governance and management of resources, addressing issues of fragmentation and overlapping responsibilities [16][19]. - Previously, Liangjiang New Area operated under a "1+3" joint development model, which led to management challenges as the economy grew [25][27]. - The establishment of Liangjiang New Area signals a potential trend for other national-level new areas to follow suit in transitioning to administrative districts, enhancing their governance capabilities [29]. Group 3: Future of Urban Expansion - Since 2022, there has been a slowdown in large-scale administrative adjustments across China, with a focus on maintaining stability in administrative divisions [31][33]. - The article notes that while large city mergers may be unlikely in the short term, there remains potential for administrative adjustments that enhance core competitiveness and improve administrative efficiency [34][35].