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A newly built elevated roadway marks Shaoxing's urban development. [Photo/Tide News]

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), Shaoxing achieved significant social and economic progress.

Gross regional product increased steadily from 679.5 billion yuan ($96 billion) in 2021 to 836.9 billion yuan in 2024. Residents' disposable income grew from 50,104 yuan in the first three quarters of 2021 to 61,702 yuan in the same period this year, with the urban-rural income gap further narrowing.

Shaoxing has focused on developing four emerging industries: integrated circuits, biomedicine, high-end equipment, and new materials.

In 2025 alone, the city launched 189 enterprise-led reinvestment projects — manufacturing expansions, equipment upgrades, and redevelopment efforts initiated by local companies — 43 more than in 2024. These initiatives are driving industrial upgrading toward high-end, intelligent, and green development.

In place of large-scale reconstruction, Shaoxing government has invested over 5 billion yuan in the protective renovation of three main historic sites, preserving the original residents' lifestyles.

Culture remains Shaoxing's unique competitive advantage. The city is home to more than 1,000 protected cultural sites, including Lu Xun Native Place. Archaeological breakthroughs include the discovery of high-level sacrificial remains of the ancient Yue state for the first time.