To boost local growth, the Nansha district government decided to be more involved in the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.

Guangzhou was an important port of the Maritime Silk Road more than 2000 years ago. Now, Guangzhou is once again a vital player due to its location, economic prowess, trade connections d and port handling capacity.

Automobile wharf in Nansha free trade zone in Guangzhou, capital of South China's Guangdong province [Photo provided by Nansha district publicity department]

Therefore, Nansha free trade zone has new opportunities to help Guangzhou increase trade and cooperation with the countries along the Maritime Silk Road.

Li explained Nansha's measures to achieve the goal. They include a fund for the shipping industries; a development and construction fund for ports along the Maritime Silk Road; and a port city alliance and mutual recognition system for ports along the Road.

Nansha Marina in Nansha district in Guangzhou, capital of South China's Guangdong province [Photo provided by Nansha district publicity department]

Meanwhile, Li said, Nansha will work with enterprises and individuals to establish a one-stop service platform for going-global businesses, open more shipping routes and organize promotions to attract more foreign investment.