The Yangtze River Economic Belt encompasses three major regions in eastern, western and central China, spanning 11 provinces and municipalities directly under the central government: Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, Chongqing, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hunan and Hubei. It comprises the upstream Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone, the midstream urban agglomeration, and the downstream Yangtze River Delta region. Covering 21% of the country's land area, it accommodates over 40% of the nation's population and economic activity, making it a focal point of China's economic development.

A bird's-eye view of the Wuxia Gorge, one of the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River, in Badong County, central China's Hubei Province.

The Chinese government has recently called for measures to further advance the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, with the aim of better supporting and serving China's path to modernization.

Fully tap value of Yangtze River culture

The Yangtze River has long been a vital source of sustenance for the Chinese nation. Its fertile basin facilitates agricultural growth through irrigation, its navigable waterways spur commerce, and its abundant fish and rice ensure prosperity. Over time, the Yangtze River culture has become deeply intertwined with economic development, playing an integral part in daily life.