A Long Way Ahead

In November 2002, an online article titled “Shenzhen, Who Abandoned You?” found its way to the desks of the city’s decision makers. The 18,000-word article included sharp criticism of many of the city’s most glaring problems: Hi-tech industries were leaving along with high-end talent, preferential policies were less attractive, and the city had less influence over the country’s economic decisions and suffered from inefficiency in the work of government bodies. Shenzhen needed new direction after 20 years of reform and opening up.

The city’s innovators were soon blazing more new trails. In 2006, Shenzhen issued documents that placed emphasis on independent innovation, proclaiming the city’s aim to transform itself into the nation’s cutting edge. In 2008 and 2009, Shenzhen received “big gifts” from Guangdong Province and the central government. It was approved as a pilot area for comprehensive reform, to develop into an international metropolis, developing closer ties with neighboring Hong Kong. Also, ChiNext, the long-awaited Nasdaq-style stock market opened for trade.

Not long ago, the Shenzhen 2010 Reform Plan was issued. This year, the city will implement 27 reform projects, covering politics, economy, culture, environment, and public general welfare. Many of the projects, including reforms on civil servant management and district-level governmental institutions, are paving the way for similar policies throughout the country.

Some experts argue that after years of development and innovation, Shenzhen should be aiming at greater goals. It should not settle for being simply a national financial hub or hi-tech center, but focus on becoming an international city connecting the world. Others, however, advocate more careful planning, and staying grounded. Either way, the next 30 years are sure to bring more drastic changes and unexpected developments.