The Second Russian-Chinese Forum on Investment Development and Trade Cooperation in Shenyang marked a pivotal moment for Russia’s Primorye region. In a statement shared on his Telegram channel, Primorye Governor Oleg Kozhemyako outlined a comprehensive plan to deepen economic ties with Liaoning Province and China as a whole. This approach spans agricultural development, industrial expansion, cultural exchanges, and logistical enhancements, all aimed at fostering cross-border growth and ensuring mutual benefit.
Key Proposals from Primorye
Governor Kozhemyako introduced several targeted proposals to reinforce trade and investment between Primorye and China, including:
- Reestablishment of Direct Air Routes: The governor highlighted the need to resume the Shenyang-Vladivostok flight, an initiative that would facilitate smoother business and tourism exchanges between the regions.
- Establishing a Liaoning Trade Representation in Primorye: Supporting the opening of a Liaoning trade representation in Primorye could further promote cross-border trade and investment opportunities, particularly for Liaoning-based companies seeking to access Russian markets.
- Access to Agricultural Land: Primorye is prepared to allocate up to 30,000 hectares of farmland to investors from Liaoning. This land is ideal for cultivating rice, soy, and other crops, providing China with a stable, nearby source of agricultural products and enhancing Primorye’s agricultural productivity.
- Industrial and Port Development: Governor Kozhemyako also encouraged Chinese investors to take part in building a new modern port in Primorye as well as a grain processing plant. These facilities would streamline the export of agricultural products to China, particularly from the Free Port of Vladivostok and the Territories of Accelerated Development (TADs), which offer tax incentives and simplified regulations for foreign investors.
- Exporting Eco-Friendly Products: In his address, Kozhemyako emphasized Primorye’s capacity to supply China with a variety of high-quality, eco-friendly products. This list includes honey, grains, soy, corn, dairy, meat, and seafood, along with high-tech food and feed biocomplexes and wood products.
- Cultural and Sports Exchanges: Beyond economic initiatives, Kozhemyako advocated for expanding cultural and sports exchanges to foster a deeper mutual understanding and create a robust foundation for long-term collaboration.
The Economic Impact of Strengthened Russian-Chinese Cooperation
Primorye’s proposals align well with the increasing demand for Russian agricultural products in China. In recent years, China has become a primary importer of Russian soy, corn, and seafood, which complement the Chinese demand for eco-friendly and organic foods. By developing new agricultural and processing facilities in Primorye, investors could capitalize on the region’s fertile land and proximity to Chinese markets, resulting in shorter supply chains and potentially lower costs for Chinese consumers. Moreover, expanded trade infrastructure, such as ports and logistics centers, could benefit both economies by making Primorye a critical gateway for Russian-Chinese commerce.
Primorye’s free trade zones, like the Free Port of Vladivostok and the TADs, further incentivize investment. These zones offer reduced taxes and simplified regulatory conditions to foreign investors, making them an attractive choice for Chinese enterprises looking to establish a foothold in Russia’s Far East. The addition of a grain processing plant and port facilities could make Primorye a strategic hub for grain exports, solidifying its role in supplying high-demand products to Chinese markets.
The forum in Shenyang marks a promising chapter in Russian-Chinese cooperation, with Primorye’s comprehensive proposals setting the stage for strengthened cross-border relations. By welcoming Chinese investment in agriculture, infrastructure, and trade, Primorye is positioning itself as a crucial link in Russian-Chinese economic integration. These initiatives highlight the region’s dedication to sustainable development, regional growth, and cross-cultural understanding, which could serve as a model for future collaboration.
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