By Liu Yanling, Research Team on “The Innovative Development Model of Small Towns with Distinctive Local Features in China in the New Era”, DRC

Research Report, Special Issue, No.12, 2019 (Total 1640) 2019-1-25

Abstract: In recent years, the building of small towns with distinctive local features in the world has mushroomed in various forms, providing valuable reference to China’s development of similar small towns. Based on China’s practice of the building of small towns and in light of the building of small towns with distinctive local features in the world, this paper holds that the construction of small towns in China need to be in step with local features, and identify their industrial position based on scientific plans, so as to realize the in-depth integration between industrial specialties, innovative ideas, traditional culture and ecological endowments. To this end, the following policy options are proposed. First, we need to give prominence to local advantages and distinctive local features. Second, we need to adhere to the concept of innovative, coordinated, green, open and shared growth and pursue green, intelligent and sustainable development. Third, we need to cultivate advantageous industries with strong competitive power and featured by distinctive, professional and high-end development. Fourth, we need to develop competitive products instead of building big and all-around businesses so as to realize high-quality development of the small towns. Fifth, we need to persist in making innovations and realize the overall integration of traditional and modern elements. Sixth, we need to flesh out supportive policies and enhance policy guidance in order to endure the smooth development of small towns with distinctive local features.

Key words: small towns with distinctive local features, policy options, international experience