Culture, tradition, and industrial revolution: The case of China
Since the Renaissance, China has had a profound influence on its own history, culture, and customs. As one of the world’s oldest civilizations, with more than 5,000 years of continuous existence, China has remained deeply rooted in its ancestral traditions while embracing modernity in various forms.
Visiting China for the first time reaffirmed my understanding and showcased vividly its rich traditional and cultural norms. I observed how ancient Chinese traditions, fused with both imperial and modern beliefs, have seamlessly integrated China into a modern industrialisation model. This blend has propelled the country to significant development across multiple sectors, making China a dominant global force today.
The Belt and Road Journalists Network (BRJN) provides an opportunity for journalists and professionals worldwide to engage with China’s unique approach to development. The forum highlights key strategies that China has employed by merging traditional values with modern developmental models, creating a blueprint for the country’s rapid transformation.
These approaches have not only fuelled China’s industrial growth but also solidified its position as a key player in global trade and investment, contributing to improved living standards for its citizens.
This year’s forum was held in Chongqing, one of the fastest-growing cities in south western China. It governs 38 districts and counties and plays a major role in driving China’s next stage of industrialisation. Spanning an area of 82,400 square kilometres and home to over 32 million people, Chongqing is often referred to as the Mountain City or River City, owing to its picturesque landscapes filled with mountains and rivers.
Strategically located on the Yangtze River, Chongqing has historically served as a critical trade route for merchants, both domestically and internationally. Today, the river continues to play a significant role in China’s industrial and developmental agenda.
A logistical corridor has been established along the river, connecting it to various internal and external networks. For instance, the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (IILSTC), aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative, has greatly contributed to China’s industrial growth.
The IILSTC facilitates the movement of goods and services to 480 ports across 120 countries, amplifying China’s trade capacity. Moreover, initiatives like the large-scale Western development strategy, the Yangtze River economic corridor, and the Belt and Road Initiative have further cemented Chongqing’s status as an international logistics hub and internal gateway.
Chongqing has also evolved into a manufacturing powerhouse, with 39 out of China’s 41 industries represented in the city. Notable examples include the Seres Phoenix Intelligent Factory, which manufactures electric and gasoline-powered vehicles in Shapingba District, and the city’s thriving laptop production industry.
In addition, Chongqing is home to enterprises like the Chongqing Fuling Zhacai Group Co., a family-owned business specialising in pickled vegetables and condiments, showcasing the city’s strong ties to both traditional and modern industries.
Further, its rapid development in railway, water, and air transportation has turned it into a major international transportation hub. The city’s high-speed subways make it easy to navigate, and some of the railway lines even run through high-rise buildings, a feature that enhances the city’s architectural beauty. Water transport also helps reduce traffic congestion, while yellow taxis known as “Yellow Ferri” whisk passengers through the streets with speed and tact.
The yellow ferri drivers are well trained and drive very fast with ease to get you to your destination in no time. The city uses advanced apps that provide real-time traffic updates, improving road traffic management and easing congestion. Its international airport facilitates travel to other regions, ensuring smooth movement within and outside the city.
In terms of tourism, Chongqing boasts a rich heritage of historical monuments and cultural landmarks. Visitors can experience the city’s evolution by exploring sites like the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery, which displays visual and architectural representations of the city’s transformation over the decades.
Another notable attraction is the Baiheliang Underwater Museum, home to ancient inscriptions carved into stone beneath the Yangtze River. These inscriptions, created by renowned calligraphers, offer insight into Chongqing’s long-standing cultural traditions.
Natural wonders like the Karst Eco Museum, recognised by the United Nations for sustainable development, and Club 1003, the city’s first female Polo club, also contribute to Chongqing’s unique tourism appeal.
During my interactions with some Chinese locals, I found them to be warm, hospitable, and full of humour. Their friendliness and eagerness to assist with any project were truly impressive. They display a high level of respect and are quick to offer help, regardless of the situation. Their hospitality, always accompanied by a warm smile, left a lasting impression on me.
China was an incredibly enriching experience. It demonstrated the importance of blending traditional practices with modern development strategies, which will help a country achieve national growth based on its cultural and traditional norms.
China’s success serves as an example for other developing nations, including those in Africa, which can draw valuable lessons from its approach.
By combining historical traditions with industrialisation, China has charted a path that other countries can follow to meet their own developmental needs.
I strongly believe China’s model offers a promising blueprint for the future of global development.
BY NII NETTEY NETTEY