A City in Motion
For over two decades, the China–ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) has stood as one of Asia’s most dynamic platforms for trade, investment, and regional partnership. What began in 2004 has grown into a gathering that brings together thousands of enterprises, government leaders, and investors under one roof each year.
At the heart of this story is Nanning, the capital of Guangxi, which has served as the Expo’s permanent home since its inception. Positioned as China’s gateway to Southeast Asia, Nanning city provides not only geographic advantage but also cultural and commercial connectivity that make it the natural stage for this flagship event.
The impact has been remarkable. In 2025 alone, more than 3,200 enterprises from 60 countries converged in Nanning, securing over 500 trade and investment agreements across sectors from manufacturing to digital innovation. Each year, the Expo strengthens the China–ASEAN Free Trade Area and reinforces trust, making Nanning synonymous with regional opportunity and collaboration.
The Driving Forces Behind Nanning’s Growth
Strategic Location: Gateway Between China and Southeast Asia
Nanning’s position in southern Guangxi gives it a unique geographic advantage. Located just a few hours from Vietnam and well connected to major Chinese cities such as Guangzhou and Chongqing, it serves as a vital bridge between inland China and Southeast Asia. The city’s location along the China–ASEAN Economic Corridor allows goods, investment, and talent to flow seamlessly across borders.
Proximity to the Beibu Gulf ports enhances its role as both a logistics and manufacturing gateway, supporting faster, more efficient trade routes with ASEAN markets.
Government Support: Policies Fueling Sustainable Growth
The Guangxi Free Trade Zone (FTZ), established in 2019, has become a major driver of Nanning’s modern economy. With business-friendly regulations, simplified customs procedures, and tax incentives, the FTZ encourages foreign investment and innovation in sectors like digital trade, green manufacturing, and finance.
These supportive policies, backed by steady government commitment, make Nanning one of southern China’s most attractive destinations for both domestic and global enterprises.
China–ASEAN Relations: A Platform for Global Cooperation
Every year, Nanning hosts the China–ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), which brings together thousands of companies and delegations from over 40 countries and regions. The event has elevated Nanning’s international profile as a centre for cooperation, cultural exchange, and commerce.
Through this growing regional partnership, Nanning continues to strengthen its reputation as a strategic connector between China and Southeast Asia.
Modern Infrastructure Shaping a Modern City
New Transport Links: Connecting a Growing Metropolis
Nanning’s growth is powered by an expanding transport network designed for efficiency and global connectivity. The Nanning Metro now covers over 120 kilometres across five lines, improving daily commuting and reducing congestion.
Major expressways and ring roads link the city to industrial parks, residential zones, and neighbouring cities, enhancing logistics capacity. Meanwhile, the under-construction Terminal 3 at Nanning Wuxu International Airport will handle up to 34 million passengers per year upon completion in 2027, positioning Nanning as a key aviation hub linking inland China with ASEAN nations.
Smart Urban Planning: Technology at the City’s Core
Nanning’s transformation goes beyond infrastructure—it’s evolving into a smart city. Intelligent traffic systems manage congestion in real time, while digital energy grids and smart utilities enhance efficiency. Government services are increasingly available online, improving convenience for residents and investors alike.
Pinglu Canal: A New Artery for Trade and Logistics
The Pinglu Canal, currently under construction, will connect Hengzhou (Guigang) to the Beibu Gulf via Qinzhou Port. While it does not pass directly through Nanning, it will significantly shorten inland transport distances and lower costs, strengthening the city’s logistics network.
Once operational, the canal will become a crucial link for Guangxi’s inland cities, including Nanning, providing faster access to global shipping routes.
Emerging Industries and Innovation Hubs
Technology & AI: Powering the Digital Future
Nanning is fast becoming a rising force in China’s digital economy. The China–ASEAN AI Innovation Centre, located in the city’s High-Tech Zone, has positioned Nanning as a regional hub for artificial intelligence, big data, and smart manufacturing.
Supported by research institutions and government-backed talent programmes, Nanning is fostering a new generation of high-tech enterprises. This growth is driving productivity, attracting skilled professionals, and diversifying the city’s economic landscape.
Green Manufacturing: Building a Sustainable Economy
Sustainability has become central to Nanning’s industrial policy. The city promotes green manufacturing, with factories adopting cleaner energy systems, efficient water management, and renewable power sources.
These initiatives reflect China’s national push toward carbon neutrality while also enhancing Nanning’s global competitiveness as a production base for eco-friendly industries.
Start-Ups and Small Businesses: Fuel for Local Growth
Entrepreneurship continues to flourish in Nanning. As of 2024, the city hosts more than 30 recognised innovation parks and incubators, providing mentorship, funding, and collaborative spaces for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Supported by strong local policies and a growing digital infrastructure, these businesses are contributing significantly to job creation and local economic dynamism.
Quality of Life and Green City Vision
Nanning’s identity as China’s Green City is more than just a title—it’s a defining feature of how the city grows. With an extensive network of parks, rivers, and scenic areas such as Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area and Nanhu Lake Park, nature is woven into everyday life.
The city prioritises clean air, public green spaces, and eco-conscious design, making sustainability a core part of urban planning.
Unlike many rapidly developing cities, Nanning maintains a strong focus on liveability alongside progress. Residential developments incorporate green zones, while efficient public transport reduces car dependence and emissions.
This thoughtful approach improves both quality of life and long-term property value.
At the same time, Nanning retains its southern cultural charm. Influenced by the Zhuang ethnic heritage and ASEAN connections, its lifestyle blends modernity with tradition, from lively night markets and tea houses to cultural festivals that celebrate diversity.
The result is a city that offers economic opportunity and a vibrant, enjoyable way of life.
Opportunities Ahead
Nanning’s economy is entering a promising new phase, with technology, logistics, and sustainable industries leading its next chapter of growth. In 2024, the city’s GDP reached approximately RMB 520 billion, reflecting a 5.8% year-on-year increase, supported by strong industrial output and rising foreign investment.
Its role in the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, which handled over 1 million TEUs in 2025, continues to boost its appeal to investors seeking logistics efficiency and regional access.
As the host of the China–ASEAN Expo, Nanning’s position as a bridge between China and Southeast Asia continues to strengthen. Modern infrastructure, favourable policies, and expanding financial services are helping the city attract international enterprises and talent.
Looking forward, Nanning’s transformation shows no signs of slowing. Its focus on green development, digital innovation, and cross-border connectivity ensures it will remain one of southern China’s most forward-moving cities, a place where growth, opportunity, and sustainability converge.
Conclusion – The City That Never Stands Still
Nanning’s rise is a testament to vision, balance, and long-term strategy. From a provincial capital to a global gateway, the city has redefined progress in southern China. Its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability continue to attract investors and innovators from across the region.
The Green City reputation remains central to Nanning’s identity, shaping how it builds and grows. Clean energy, smart technologies, and urban green planning have created a city that is not only competitive but also liveable and resilient.
With expanding trade routes, a growing digital economy, and an enduring focus on sustainable prosperity, Nanning’s influence will continue to rise within China and across Southeast Asia. The journey is ongoing, and Nanning, true to its spirit, remains a city that never stands still.
