The autumn scenery of Wenzhou's Sanyang Wetland. [Photo/IC]
Wenzhou delivered strong performances in urban development during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period, with its metropolitan area expanding to 304.13 square kilometers by the end of 2024, its permanent population reaching 9.85 million, and its urbanization rate rising to 76 percent — a significant step in urban integration.
Over the past five years, Wenzhou has accelerated the expansion of its transport network and developed a multi-cluster layout. A total of 76 towns and subdistricts — including Yueqing, Rui'an, and Yongjia — have also been incorporated into unified central-city planning, strengthening regional cohesion.
Key development zones have taken shape as the city has advanced six major urban improvement initiatives. Of 1,674 planned projects, 662 have been completed, with total investment exceeding 350 billion yuan ($49.59 billion). Landmark progress includes the expanding skyline of Oujiang New City CBD, the main exhibition area of the China (Wenzhou) International Garden Expo Park, and breakthroughs in major infrastructure projects, such as ports and expressways.
Wenzhou also recorded significant improvements in livability, with approximately 32 million square meters of commercial housing built and professional property management services coverage rising to 95.87 percent. The "Youth Housing Program" has delivered 135,000 units of affordable rental housing, benefiting more than 214,000 people. The renovation of 343 aging neighborhoods and the construction of 180 future communities, along with over 6,300 new public-service facilities, have collectively enhanced urban comfort.
Eco development has become a defining feature of the city, which now has 267 pocket parks, 17,300 hectares of green space in built-up areas, and was recognized as an International Wetland City at COP15 in July.
Wenzhou plans to continue advancing high-quality urban development and promoting major port, industrial, and metropolitan projects to further enhance the city's competitiveness.
