Changxing Island’s path to world-class green petrochemical hub

At the economic work conference held by the CPC Dalian Municipal Committee at the end of 2023, the mission of transforming Changxing Island into a world-class green petrochemical industry base was emphasized. In this regard, the Dalian Changxing Island Economic and Technological Development Zone proposed focusing on six key areas to achieve this goal.

Achieve new breakthroughs in the construction of a modern industrial system. Efforts will be made to bolster and support Hengli Petrochemical, leverage PetroChina Dalian Petrochemical's relocation and upgrading projects, extend, supplement, and strengthen the industrial chain, in a bid to vigorously develop downstream fine chemicals and basic chemical materials industries. The goal is to adjust and optimize the petrochemical industry structure, increasing the fine chemical rate from 6 percent to over 20 percent by the end of 2025. Emerging industries, including hydrogen energy and energy storage, will also be promoted to cultivate future industries and accelerate the formation of new quality productive forces.

Achieve new breakthroughs in the implementation of major projects. Efforts will be made to promote the full production of Hengli New Materials Science and Technology Park series projects, and accelerate the implementation of major projects, such as Dingjide high-end new materials, Huayi lithium battery phase II, and Catalyst and Catalysis Technology Co Ltd phase II. Efforts are underway to strengthen cooperation with state-owned enterprises and accelerate implementation of new refining and chemical projects, crude oil commercial warehousing, and green electricity initiatives by PetroChina Dalian Petrochemical. These efforts will lay a solid foundation for building a world-class green petrochemical industry base.

Achieve new breakthroughs in the transformation of scientific and technological achievements. Efforts will be made to deepen cooperation with scientific research institutes such as the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Dalian University of Technology to promote the local incubation, transformation, and industrialization of scientific and technological achievements. The goal is to create comparative advantages over advanced chemical parks both domestically and internationally. Implement innovative environmental impact assessment (EIA) and safety assessment approval systems for innovation base and pilot projects. Advance the upgrading of pilot bases, accelerate the construction of China's first CDMO API and intermediate incubator, and promote the implementation of more fine chemical pilot projects. The cultivation pool for various types of innovation entities will be improved, with the total number of high-tech, fledgling, and gazelle enterprises expected to increase by more than 30 percent, and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as "specialized, sophisticated, distinctive and innovative" enterprises, anticipated to grow by over 60 percent.

Achieve new breakthroughs in promoting international industrial cooperation. With an international perspective, efforts will target the Fortune Global 500 chemical enterprises and the top 50 international chemical enterprises, aiming to initiate large-scale projects for industrial cooperation and investment promotion. Utilizing international advanced technologies and processes will be key to promoting the high-quality development of the petrochemical industry. Additionally, efforts will focus on increasing investment intensity and efficiency to foster the intensive development of the petrochemical sector. Seizing the opportunity presented by the upgrading of the Dalian section of China (Liaoning) Pilot Free Trade Zone, plans will be made to establish a new pattern of international cooperation and development in the petrochemical industry.

Achieve new breakthroughs in the cultivation of a first-class industrial ecology. With a focus on addressing service issues throughout enterprises' life cycles, efforts will prioritize establishing a streamlined "one-stop" enterprise service system, transitioning gradually towards unified departments for approval and service. Taking the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park as a benchmark, initiatives will coordinate infrastructure development in Xizhong Island Petrochemical Park, accelerating the construction of supporting public infrastructure to enhance the park's image, functionality, and appeal. Strategic planning around key enterprises will promote the optimization of supply chains and the integration of industrial chains, enriching the island’s industrial ecology.

Achieve new breakthroughs in creating an environment suitable for business and living. Efforts will focus on enhancing urban and social service functions. This includes ongoing comprehensive improvements in urban-rural environment, upgrading education, medical, cultural, and sports facilities, and advancing grassroots social governance through community development. These initiatives aim to enhance satisfaction among enterprises and residents alike. Implementing the "Changxing Talent Plan" will help to attract and retain talents, as well as maximize their motivation and vitality.

As 2024 marks a pivotal year for Dalian's high-quality development, the Dalian Changxing Island Economic and Technological Development Zone is committed to contributing to Dalian's role in the revitalization of Northeast China in the new era.