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Xiamen: Observing 15 Years of the City's Transformation
I visited Xiamen on two separate occasions: first, in 2009, and second, in the summer of 2023. The changes observed were significant. In this article I will outline the key areas in which Xiamen has transformed and developed.
Transportation
Xiamen has made significant improvements in its transportation infrastructure. The Xiamen Metro, which began operations in 2017, has expanded public transit options. Additionally, the city has upgraded its bus system and improved roadways to ease traffic congestion. The Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport has also been upgraded to handle increased passenger and cargo traffic.
What struck me the most when driving from one end of the city to the other, was how well the network of roads were strategically well developed. There was hardly ever any traffic congestion. The other key observation I made on the roads of Xiamen, were the countless electric motorbikes. This was in stark contrast with 15 years ago when the roads were filled with people on bicycles and regular motorbikes. This leads to the next key development: environmental initiatives.
Environmental initiatives
Xiamen has been proactive in implementing green initiatives to combat pollution and promote sustainability. Efforts include the expansion of green spaces and the improvement of air and water quality as well as of waste management systems. The green areas prove to be very popular: adults use them for working out, parents bring their children and they offer walking opportunities for all. The city has also worked on preserving its coastline and natural habitats.
The promotion of electric vehicles was ever so obvious in the streets of Xiamen. Efforts to develop eco-friendly public transportation and renewable energy sources are also noteworthy.
Real Estate and Urban Development
The urban landscape of Xiamen has been transformed with new skyscrapers, residential buildings, and commercial complexes. The city has expanded both on the mainland and on Xiamen Island, with infrastructure improvements including bridges and road networks to better connect different parts of the city.
Xiamen has taken steps towards becoming a smart city by integrating technology into urban management. This includes the use of big data, IoT (Internet of Things), and AI (Artificial Intelligence) to improve city services, traffic management, and environmental monitoring.
About 15 years ago, one of the main railway stations had just been completed including a shopping mall, office buildings, and a bus station. In 2023, the Xiamen North Railway Station is being extended to allow space for the Fuzhou-Xiamen high-speed railway. This is to be China’s first cross-sea high-speed railway. The developments will again lead to the construction of new office buildings, shopping malls and many more.
Social Development
Improvements in healthcare, housing, and social services have contributed to a better quality of life for Xiamen’s residents. The city has focused on providing accessible healthcare, affordable housing, and various social welfare programs.
In response to the rapid urbanization and the need for affordable housing, Xiamen has implemented social housing projects and urban renewal programs. These initiatives aim to provide quality housing options for lower-income residents and to revitalize older urban areas.
The city has invested in creating and improving public spaces for recreation and social interaction. Parks, waterfront promenades, and public squares have been developed or renovated, providing residents and visitors with more options for leisure and outdoor activities. I noticed sports facilities across the city, which were particularly busy in the slightly cooler summer evenings.
The city has invested in cultural projects and events to enhance its cultural landscape. Festivals, art exhibitions, and performances have become more frequent, enriching the cultural life of residents and attracting tourists.
Tourism
The tourism industry in Xiamen has grown, with the city enhancing its offerings to attract both domestic and international visitors. Attractions like Gulangyu Island, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, have been preserved and developed. The city has also hosted various cultural and international events, contributing to its global profile.
Economic Growth
Xiamen has seen rapid economic growth, with substantial investments in various sectors such as manufacturing, especially in electronics and machinery, as well as in the service sector. The city has also focused on high-tech industries and the financial sector, aiming to diversify its economic base.
The establishment of the Xiamen Area of the China (Fujian) Pilot Free Trade Zone has attracted foreign investment and boosted economic activity.
Education and Innovation
There has been a strong emphasis on education and innovation. Xiamen is home to several universities and research institutions, fostering a culture of learning and technological advancement. Initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and innovation have also been a focus, with the establishment of various innovation hubs and incubators.
The city is home to a growing number of tech startups and incubators, which benefit from the supportive business environment and government incentives. This focus on innovation has helped Xiamen attract talent and investment in cutting-edge industries.
Final Thoughts on Xiamen’s Transformation in the Past 15 Years
Overall, Xiamen’s transformation in the past 15 years reflects broader trends in China’s urban development, including rapid modernization, economic diversification, and an increasing focus on sustainability and quality of life. The city’s evolution is indicative of its aspirations to be a competitive and livable metropolis on the international stage.
