Pingtan, an island off the coast of Fujian province and the closest mainland point to the island of Taiwan, is moving full steam ahead with a new phase of port closure operations, unlocking fresh momentum for seven emerging industries. As a designated comprehensive pilot zone for cross-Straits integration and a critical logistics hub, Pingtan is leveraging its strategic location to deepen industrial reform and drive quality development.

In recent years, Pingtan has prioritized cross-Straits trade and specialized industries, constructing several infrastructure platforms tailored to its advantages in location and connectivity. These include the Pingtan Cross-Border E-commerce Logistics Park, the Cross-Straits AI Computing Center, an inspection and quarantine facility, and a small-scale trade market for goods from Taiwan. Together, they provide vital support for the island's growing sectors such as e-commerce, digital economy, and specialized trade.

At the heart of this transformation is the Cross-Border E-commerce Logistics Park, designed to serve as a cluster for Taiwan-focused e-commerce activity. It offers integrated logistics services for top platforms including Amazon, Tmall Global, JD.com, and Pinduoduo. Complementing this, the Pingtan Taiwan Entrepreneurship Park is cultivating innovation and talent exchange across the Straits, while the Emerging Industries Park is being positioned to support sectors like AI, next-generation IT, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.

Among the seven industries gaining traction is the island's maritime tourism economy. New scenarios are being explored under the "Island Tour and Sea Leisure" banner, including infrastructure for cruise ships, yachts, and related services. Notable projects underway include the Ao'qian Fisheries and Leisure Vessel Port Maintenance Center and the first phase of the Zhuyu Bay Yacht Marina.

According to Kun-Teng Liao, executive vice president of Taiwan's Kha Shing Yacht Building Co., Ltd. and director of Pingtan Hefeng Yachts Co., Ltd., the new port operation framework represents "a window of new opportunity." He noted plans to introduce and nurture more cross-Straits talent in yacht manufacturing and to develop new business models in yacht production and trading.

Motorsports is also becoming a defining feature of Pingtan's tourism economy. By utilizing urban road resources and creating a layered racing circuit network, Pingtan has successfully hosted major events like the China GT Championship. The first-phase warehouse of the Yuxin Racing Bonded Operations Base is set to be operational within the year.