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Wenzhou’s gross domestic product surpassed CNY 1 trillion (about USD 143.5 billion) last year, making it the 28th city in China to reach this milestone. As a key private sector powerhouse in Zhejiang Province, the city’s 2025 economic growth was fueled by its vibrant private economy, which encompasses nearly 1.6 million registered private companies and individual businesses—ranking among the top in the province. The added value of large private industrial enterprises made up 91 percent of the total output.
In 2024, Wenzhou’s economy grew by 6.3%, reaching approximately CNY 971.9 billion (around USD 139.5 billion), up from the previous year. Its population hit 9.85 million, an increase of 91,000 residents, ranking it as the leading prefecture-level city across China in terms of population.
The residents of Wenzhou have expanded their reach across the country and internationally, bringing with them substantial resources such as capital and information, according to Tang Hairu, vice president of the Zhejiang Society for Urban Studies. Over recent years, the city has leveraged these advantages by developing new platforms and initiatives to bolster growth.
Efforts to revitalize traditional industries while fostering emerging sectors have been central to Wenzhou’s development strategy, creating a supportive environment for progress. Special emphasis has been placed on technological advancement and the development of higher education institutions. Tang explained that by strengthening its technology capabilities and expanding university networks, the city can more effectively support industrial growth.
Moreover, the expanding high-speed rail network across Zhejiang allows universities and scientific resources from cities like Hangzhou to better contribute to Wenzhou’s economic development.
Other Chinese cities with a GDP exceeding CNY 1 trillion include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Dongguan, Quanzhou, and Yantai.
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