The Cross-Straits Integration Exhibition Area at the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. [Photo by Nian Wangshu from Pingtan CMC]

Pingtan, an island off E China's Fujian Province as well as the closest place on the mainland to the island of Taiwan, is rapidly advancing its smart city development by leveraging digital technologies to boost cross-Straits integration and economic growth. With a focus on expanding digital infrastructure and enhancing data-driven services, Pingtan is setting a new standard for smart cities.

Digital Infrastructure and Services

Pingtan's digital advancements were prominently featured at the 7th Digital China Summit. One of the highlights was the introduction of a 24-hour self-service machine tailored for compatriots from Taiwan, which has received widespread acclaim. "With just a Taiwan residence permit, you can conveniently access services on the machine, enjoying the same benefits as mainland residents," said Jian Chunwang from Taiwan.

Moreover, Pingtan has launched a comprehensive digital government services platform, which integrates 52 high-frequency services for Taiwan compatriots, including 40 services offering equal treatment and 12 exclusive services. This platform ensures that services can be accessed "anytime, anywhere" through mobile devices.

Cross-Border Data Highway

In a significant development, Pingtan received approval from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology to establish an international data channel. This channel will create a "data highway" that facilitates efficient cross-border data exchange. According to Lin Liangming, Director of the Administrative Approval Bureau of Pingtan, this dedicated data link will enhance international internet access and support seamless data flow across borders.

The channel is part of a broader digital economy project, including the Pingtan Data Cross-Border Flow Service Hub. This platform, which began trial operations last year, provides end-to-end, intelligent data cooperation services, such as data transmission and encryption. It has served over 60 enterprises and facilitated full compliance for cross-border data applications.

Strategic Partnerships

Pingtan's strategic vision includes partnering with leading technology firms to build a robust digital infrastructure. Recently, Pingtan signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Huawei. "Our partnership will help build a fully autonomous intelligent digital foundation for Pingtan," stated Chen Yue, Huawei's Fujian Province Manager. This collaboration aims to harness Huawei's strengths in chip technology, operating systems, and AI platforms to develop a comprehensive smart infrastructure.

Future Vision

Pingtan is also focusing on constructing a high-capacity computing center, known as the Pingtan Cross-Straits Integrated Intelligent Computing Center. This center, a key project for advancing AI development, will be built in three phases over three years. With an initial computing power of about 3000P, the center will offer services such as computing power leasing, algorithm calls, and model training.

Liu Donggang, General Manager of Pingtan Urban Development Group, highlighted that the project's first phase is already underway and expected to be completed by the end of the year. This initiative is part of Pingtan's broader strategy to leverage its renewable energy resources, aiming to create a sustainable and efficient digital ecosystem.