Core Viewpoint - Harbin is leveraging its ice and snow resources to develop a high-quality ice and snow economy, integrating it into local life improvements, industrial upgrades, and international openness, as emphasized by President Xi Jinping [3][6][18]. Group 1: Ice and Snow Tourism - Harbin Ice and Snow World has seen a record usage of over 400,000 cubic meters of ice and snow this season, aided by new automated ice block production equipment that triples efficiency [6]. - Last winter season, Harbin attracted over 90 million domestic and international tourists, generating total spending exceeding 137.2 billion yuan [8]. - The city is focusing on innovative tourism models, such as "ice and snow + research," "ice and snow + events," and "ice and snow + technology," to enhance the winter tourism experience [8]. Group 2: Ice and Snow Equipment Industry - The introduction of advanced materials, such as aerospace-grade carbon fiber, is enabling local companies to produce high-quality ice and snow equipment, previously dominated by foreign brands [10][13]. - The collaboration between local firms and research institutions is fostering innovation in the ice and snow equipment sector, aiming to overcome technological bottlenecks [10][14]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The total scale of Harbin's ice and snow economy has surpassed 160 billion yuan, accounting for approximately one-sixth of the national output [16]. - The city plans to cultivate five key industrial chains related to ice and snow facilities and equipment over the next five years, aiming to build a billion-level industrial cluster [16]. Group 4: International Engagement - Harbin is positioning itself as a hub for international ice and snow culture and economy, hosting events like the 2026 Harbin International Ice and Snow Economy Expo to attract global attention [18][21]. - The city is enhancing its global image and cultural exchange through initiatives like the ice sculpture of Belgium's "Little Julien," showcasing its commitment to international collaboration [18].

Core Insights - Harbin is positioning itself as a leader in the ice and snow economy, integrating ice and snow culture into various sectors such as tourism, industry, and technology, guided by the principles of high-quality development [1][9]. Tourism Industry - The Harbin Ice and Snow World has seen a record usage of over 400,000 cubic meters of ice and snow this season, aided by the introduction of two intelligent automated ice block production machines, which have tripled the efficiency of ice cutting [2][3]. - Last winter, Harbin attracted over 90 million domestic and international tourists, generating total spending of 137.2 billion yuan, with 4.1 million visitors and 5.56 billion yuan spent during the New Year holiday in 2026 [3]. Equipment and Technology - The introduction of advanced materials in ice and snow equipment, such as carbon fiber for ski helmets, has allowed local companies to compete with international brands by reducing weight by 10% to 20% and enhancing impact resistance [4][5]. - Collaboration between local companies and research institutions, such as Harbin Institute of Technology, is fostering innovation in the ice and snow equipment sector, aiming to overcome technological bottlenecks [5][6]. Economic Development - The total scale of Harbin's ice and snow economy has surpassed 160 billion yuan, accounting for approximately one-sixth of the national output, with plans to cultivate five key industrial chains over the next five years [7][8]. - The local government is actively promoting the integration of the ice and snow economy with other sectors, such as smart manufacturing and tourism, to enhance the overall economic landscape [8][9]. International Engagement - Harbin is leveraging its ice and snow culture as a unique invitation to the world, hosting international events like the Harbin International Ice and Snow Economy Expo, which showcases technological advancements and fosters global partnerships [9][10]. - The city aims to enhance its global reputation and cultural exchange through initiatives that highlight its unique ice and snow heritage, as well as its commitment to modern development [10][11].