Core Viewpoint - Urban agglomerations are becoming crucial engines for regional economic development in China, with 19 urban agglomerations housing over 70% of the population and contributing over 80% of the GDP [2] Group 1: Urban Agglomeration Development - Urban agglomerations in China have distinct developmental stages, with the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta being relatively mature, while others like Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and Shandong Peninsula are rapidly growing [2] - The population growth rate from 2015 to 2024 is highest in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, with the Pearl River Delta, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, and Yangtze River Delta leading in technological innovation [2] - By 2024, per capita GDP in the Hohhot-Baotou-Ordos-Yulin, Yangtze River Delta, and Pearl River Delta urban agglomerations is expected to rank among the highest in the country [2] Group 2: Challenges and Opportunities - Despite a city urbanization rate exceeding 50% since 2011, the potential of urban agglomerations remains largely untapped due to barriers like local protectionism and market segmentation [3] - The economic activities' spatial form is influenced by the interaction of agglomeration and diffusion forces, with excessive agglomeration leading to inefficiencies [3] - The transition from rapid urbanization to stable development presents a unique opportunity for urban agglomerations, with the urbanization rate projected to reach 67% by 2024 [4] Group 3: Strategic Recommendations - Accelerating collaborative development among urban agglomerations is essential, leveraging China's vast market advantages to promote coordinated regional development [4] - Establishing a multi-tiered urban agglomeration system is recommended, concentrating high-end resources in high-capacity urban centers while redistributing lower-end resources to surrounding areas [5] - A scientific and efficient governance system for urban agglomerations should be constructed, emphasizing the relationship between proactive government and effective market mechanisms [5][6]