Core Viewpoint - The report by Pangu Think Tank emphasizes the strategic importance of developing the "China's Great Hinterland" as a national strategy to respond to the retreat of globalization and promote land-based openness and internal circulation [1][4] Group 1: Strategic Importance - The "Great Hinterland" strategy is designed to address global uncertainties and foster new economic growth poles by reshaping regional economic geography [4] - The report suggests that the traditional "East-Central-West" development model is outdated and needs to be restructured to meet current economic conditions [4] Group 2: Geographic Definition - The "Great Hinterland" is defined as a central region that is not along borders or coastlines, characterized by dense population, economy, and culture [1] - It consists of a three-tier structure: the core layer ("Hinterland Triangle" of Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi'an), the second layer of city clusters (including Zhengzhou, Wuhan, and others), and the third layer linking ten provinces [1][4] Group 3: Infrastructure Development - Infrastructure in the "Hinterland Triangle" has been significantly upgraded, with improvements in high-speed rail, water transport, and air transport networks [5] - The region hosts seven of the top fifteen airports in China, highlighting its strategic position and economic attractiveness [5] Group 4: Population Trends - There is a noticeable trend of population return to the west, with Chengdu's population projected to reach 21.47 million in 2024, an increase of 71,000 from the end of 2023 [7] - Guiyang is expected to have the highest population growth in the country, with an increase of 199,600 people [7] - This population movement is reshaping regional demographics and providing sustained development momentum for the central and western city clusters [7]