Core Insights - The article discusses the transformation of Zhongmu County into a new urbanization model, emphasizing the development of a coordinated urban-rural structure centered around county towns, with a focus on the establishment of the Zhongmu New District as a key area for regional growth and integration with Zhengzhou and Kaifeng [1][5]. Group 1: Urban Development and Integration - Zhongmu County has evolved from an agricultural base to a cultural and entertainment hub, now labeled as "China's Theme Park County" [1]. - The establishment of the Zhongmu New District aims to facilitate the integration of the Zhengzhou metropolitan area, serving as a bridgehead for urbanization and a new engine for development [5][11]. - The district covers an area of 730 square kilometers and is designed to promote coordinated development, innovation, and cultural tourism [5]. Group 2: Infrastructure and Public Services - The new district will enjoy the same level of public services and infrastructure as Zhengzhou, including the implementation of low-capacity rail transit and integration into the city's metro system [6][7]. - Key transportation projects are underway, including the Zhengkai intercity railway and various road upgrades, contributing to a comprehensive traffic network [7][8]. Group 3: Economic Growth and Industry - The Zhongmu New District is set to attract significant investment, with the Yishow Town Fashion Industry Service Center projected to have a total investment of 10 billion yuan, focusing on the integration of culture, tourism, and fashion [4]. - The automotive industry is also a focal point, with over 100 companies generating an annual output value exceeding 20 billion yuan [12]. - The district aims to create a modern industrial system supported by advanced manufacturing, cultural tourism, and other emerging sectors, enhancing its competitiveness and innovation capacity [12][13]. Group 4: Cultural and Tourism Development - Zhongmu County has developed a unique cultural identity, attracting over 36 million tourists in the past year, with significant contributions from various theme parks and cultural attractions [11]. - The "Only Henan: Drama Wonderland" has seen visitor numbers reach 16 million in 2024, surpassing even Shanghai Disneyland, indicating a strong cultural tourism market [11]. Group 5: Community and Quality of Life - The focus on human-centered urbanization is evident in the influx of quality educational and healthcare resources, enhancing the overall living standards in Zhongmu [8][9]. - The integration of industry and urban development is creating job opportunities, allowing residents to transition from traditional agriculture to urban employment [12].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the comprehensive deployment of the "people-oriented new urbanization" strategy in Henan Province, emphasizing the importance of the Zhengkai urban integration and the development of the Zhongmu New District as a core growth area for urbanization and regional development [3][4]. Group 1: Urbanization Strategy - The Zhengkai urban integration is highlighted as a crucial initiative to accelerate the development of the Zhengzhou metropolitan area and enhance its role as a core city in the Central Plains urban agglomeration [3]. - Zhongmu New District is positioned as a strategic hub that connects resources and functions between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, aiming to transform from a "lowland" to a "core growth pole" in urbanization [3][5]. Group 2: Infrastructure and Public Services - The province has implemented significant infrastructure improvements, including the renovation of over 15,000 kilometers of old pipelines and the expansion of urban rail transit exceeding 400 kilometers [5]. - Since 2019, 24,100 old residential communities have been included in renovation plans, benefiting approximately 2.94 million households [5]. Group 3: Housing and Urban Development - The province has initiated the construction of 1.0338 million public rental housing units, addressing housing difficulties for 2.0249 million families [5]. - The urbanization rate in the province is projected to be 59.22% in 2024, which is 7.78 percentage points lower than the national average, indicating significant potential for urbanization [5]. Group 4: Future Urban Development Initiatives - The provincial housing and urban-rural development department plans to enhance urban quality by focusing on integrated development within the Zhengzhou metropolitan area and improving public service facilities in county towns [6][7]. - Key initiatives include urban renewal actions, historical preservation, and the establishment of a new real estate development model to ensure housing security and meet the needs of residents [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the deepening integration and collaboration between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, highlighting the development of transportation infrastructure, industrial synergy, and cultural tourism as key drivers for regional growth and urbanization. Transportation Infrastructure - The Zhengkai Expressway, completed in 2006, symbolizes the connection between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, facilitating closer ties between the two cities [1] - The Zhengkai Intercity Railway, with a length of 57.14 kilometers, operates 106 trains daily, creating a "half-hour living circle" for residents [4][6] - A comprehensive transportation system, including highways, railways, and public transit, enhances mobility and supports the free flow of talent and resources between the two cities [7][8] Industrial Development - The Zhengkai automotive industry cluster includes over 10 well-known car manufacturers and hundreds of parts suppliers, contributing to a projected production of 1.4 million vehicles in 2024 [11][13] - The establishment of the Zhengkai automotive industry belt aims to create a production base for 3 million vehicles, linking various economic development zones [13] - Collaborative efforts in technology and manufacturing are evident, with companies in Kaifeng and Zhengzhou working together to innovate and enhance production capabilities [14] Cultural and Tourism Integration - The integration of cultural tourism has attracted over a million visitors, with convenient travel options between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng enhancing the experience [15][19] - The development of cultural IP and joint marketing strategies is expected to boost the tourism industry in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area [19] - The establishment of a seamless travel experience, including the sale of nearly 140,000 annual tourism passes, reflects the success of the Zhengkai integration [17] Government Services and Collaboration - The launch of the "Zhengkai Same City" service window has streamlined administrative processes, allowing for efficient handling of cross-city services [21][23] - Digital integration through apps has facilitated access to services across both cities, reducing the need for physical travel [23] - Ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration in public services aim to improve the overall experience for residents and businesses in the region [24]

Core Viewpoint - The commercial landscape in Zhongmu New District is evolving with diverse experiences, integrating shopping with family activities, and driving significant consumer engagement and sales growth [1][3]. Group 1: Commercial Development - Zhongmu New District is actively integrating commercial resources, establishing a commercial matrix led by Shanshan Outlets, which connects various shopping centers [3]. - Shanshan Outlets alone sees daily foot traffic exceeding 120,000, indicating strong consumer interest [3]. - The retail sales in Zhongmu New District reached 9.95 billion yuan from January to May 2025, showcasing a robust growth trajectory [5]. Group 2: Consumer Engagement and Events - The district employs a strategy of monthly themes and weekly events to enhance consumer attraction, with activities like "Kunpeng Art Week" and "Jurassic Adventure" planned to stimulate summer consumption [4]. - The management emphasizes transforming shopping into thematic experiences, catering to various age groups and emotional needs of consumers [3]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The overall retail sales growth in Zhongmu New District is notable, with a year-on-year increase of 7.4% in the first five months of 2025 [3]. - Specific sectors show impressive growth rates, including home appliance sales up by 51%, and department store sales increasing by 27% [4].

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Henan Zhongmu New District marks a significant shift in its status and treatment, aligning it with the policies of Zhengzhou's central urban area, which is expected to drive new development opportunities for the region [1][6]. Group 1: Policy Measures - The Zhengzhou government issued the "Several Pilot Policy Measures to Support the Accelerated Development of Henan Zhongmu New District," integrating Zhongmu's planning into the city's management system and allowing it to enjoy the same policy benefits as Zhengzhou's central urban area [1][3]. - Key areas of support include low-capacity rail transit, urban renewal, affordable housing construction, and major infrastructure projects, with Zhongmu New District receiving the same policy treatment as Zhengzhou's central urban area [3][7]. - The city will allocate 500 million yuan annually for three years to support the development of Zhongmu New District, alongside efforts to attract social capital and improve financial services [5][7]. Group 2: Development Focus - The New District is positioned as a leading area for coordinated development with Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, focusing on innovation-driven growth, cultural tourism integration, and advanced manufacturing [2][5]. - Specific industrial focuses include the establishment of specialized parks for intelligent connected vehicles, biomedicine, modern food, and low-altitude economy (drones) [2][7]. - The New District will also prioritize the development of cultural tourism projects, including hotels, exhibitions, and creative industries [2][7]. Group 3: Infrastructure and Transportation - Transportation infrastructure is emphasized as a critical component for regional development, with plans to enhance key traffic projects and integrate more metro lines into the Zhengzhou metro system [1][3][7]. - The implementation of the low-capacity rail transit T1 line project is a priority, along with the expansion of metro stations within the New District [1][7]. Group 4: Social Services and Standards - Zhongmu New District will gradually align its social services, including healthcare and education, with the standards of Zhengzhou's central urban area [3][6]. - The district will also adopt similar social security and administrative salary standards as those in Zhengzhou [3][6].

Core Viewpoint - Zhengzhou has introduced new policies to accelerate the development of the Zhongmu New District, marking significant progress in the integration of Zhengzhou and Kaifeng cities [1][2]. Policy Measures - The Zhengzhou Municipal Government released 18 policy measures aimed at supporting the rapid development of Zhongmu New District, including planning adjustments, delegation of authority, project prioritization, and financial subsidies [2][3]. - Zhongmu New District will be incorporated into Zhengzhou's planning system, facilitating future development and ensuring alignment with the city's overall strategic goals [2][3]. Development Support - The policies will allow Zhongmu New District to enjoy the same benefits as Zhengzhou's central urban area in areas such as low-capacity rail transit, urban renewal, and affordable housing construction [3][4]. - The district's status will be elevated to be on par with Zhengzhou's central area, receiving equal planning, policy, and treatment standards [3][4]. Strategic Importance - Zhongmu New District is positioned as a key area in the integration of Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, serving as a transitional and industrial support zone [4][5]. - The district is tasked with leading the development of the Zheng-Kai integration process, aiming to become a "pioneering area" for this initiative [4][5]. Industrial Development - The policies support the establishment of specialized parks in sectors such as intelligent connected vehicles, biomedicine, and modern food, while also directing funds towards high-quality manufacturing development in Zhongmu New District [5][6]. - There is a need for differentiated industrial strategies to avoid overlapping industries and competition with surrounding areas, promoting coordinated development across the region [5][6].

Core Points - The Zhengzhou government has issued a set of 18 policy measures to accelerate the development of the Henan Zhongmou New Area, marking a significant step in the implementation of the Zhengkai urban integration strategy [1] Group 1: Planning and Governance - The Zhongmou New Area, established as the first provincial-level new area in Henan, aims to enhance urban integration and support Zhengzhou's role as a core city in the Central Plains urban agglomeration [2] - The policy measures include integrating the new area's planning into the overall Zhengzhou planning system, allowing for unified management and coordination with key city plans [2] - The new area will receive delegated development and economic management powers, providing it with greater autonomy to respond to market demands and attract businesses [2] Group 2: Innovation and Industry Development - The measures promote the gathering of innovative resources by supporting collaboration with the Central Plains Science and Technology City and establishing a demonstration zone for technology transfer [3] - Key industries such as intelligent connected vehicles, biomedicine, and modern food will be prioritized for development, with significant infrastructure projects receiving policy support [4] - The government will also direct funds towards high-quality manufacturing and the development of industrial clusters [5] Group 3: Infrastructure and Living Environment - The policy emphasizes the construction of essential infrastructure, including transportation projects and urban renewal initiatives, to create a livable and business-friendly environment [6] - Social services such as healthcare and education will be expanded in the new area, aligning with the standards of Zhengzhou's central urban area [7] Group 4: Financial Support and Talent Development - An annual budget of 500 million yuan will be allocated for the new area's development over three years, demonstrating the government's commitment [8] - The measures encourage the establishment of partnerships with financial institutions and support for high-level talent recognition and training programs [8]

Core Viewpoint - The development of urban agglomerations, particularly the Zhengzhou urban agglomeration, is crucial for economic growth and regional coordination in China, as emphasized by Xi Jinping [1][2]. Group 1: Urban Development and Planning - The Zhengzhou urban agglomeration has been recognized as the 10th urban agglomeration by the National Development and Reform Commission, highlighting its importance in the new development pattern and national market integration [1]. - The "Zhengzhou Urban Agglomeration Development Plan" aims to enhance the integration of Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, establishing a "Golden Triangle" for high-quality development [1][2]. - The establishment of the Zhongmu New District is a strategic move to facilitate deeper integration between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng, with a planned investment of 69 billion yuan in 390 policy projects [6]. Group 2: Economic Growth and Collaboration - The GDP of Zhengzhou and Kaifeng combined has increased from 206.76 billion yuan in 2005 to 1,729.32 billion yuan in 2024, with their contribution to the provincial GDP rising from 19.5% to 27.2% [6][12]. - The collaboration between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng has evolved from a "dual city" model to a "same city" model, enhancing regional competitiveness and optimizing the development pattern [4][5]. Group 3: Transportation and Infrastructure - The Zhengkai intercity railway has significantly improved connectivity, reducing travel time between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng to as little as 25 minutes, integrating the two cities into a "half-hour living circle" [8][11]. - A comprehensive transportation network has been established, including over 10 modern transportation routes, facilitating efficient movement and resource allocation between the two cities [9]. Group 4: Industry and Innovation - The Zhengkai automotive industry cluster has attracted over 10 well-known car manufacturers and hundreds of parts suppliers, contributing to a significant increase in production capacity [12][13]. - Collaborative efforts in innovation and technology have been strengthened, with joint projects between Zhengzhou and Kaifeng enhancing the efficiency of research and development [13][14]. Group 5: Cultural and Tourism Development - The Zhengkai region is developing a rich cultural and tourism landscape, connecting modern urban experiences with historical sites, thereby enhancing the overall attractiveness of the area [15]. Group 6: Future Directions - Continuous efforts are needed to deepen the integration of public services and infrastructure, with recommendations for a structured approach similar to the Shanghai Hongqiao Business District model [18].

Group 1 - The provincial secretary Liu Ning conducted a survey in Zhengzhou's Zhongmu New District focusing on market management, technological innovation, cultural tourism integration, and ecological protection [1][2] - Liu emphasized the importance of ensuring a sufficient supply of essential goods during holidays, enhancing market management, and providing convenience for merchants and the public [1] - The automotive quality inspection and certification center was highlighted for its role in supporting the electric, intelligent, and connected development trends in the automotive industry [1] Group 2 - Liu Ning noted the success of Henan's cultural tourism destinations, such as the Henan Drama Fantasy City and Jianye Movie Town, in attracting national tourists [2] - He stressed the need for safety measures in tourist areas, including reservation systems and dynamic adjustments to reception capacity [2] - The importance of ecological restoration and the integration of water systems was discussed, with a focus on enhancing biodiversity and sustainability [2] Group 3 - Liu Ning called for a modern industrial system characterized by advanced manufacturing, cultural tourism, and modern agriculture to enhance the comprehensive strength of the county economy [2]