Heilongjiang's Transformation
In Harbin, the host city of the Asian Winter Games, rows of "Heilong Blades" ice skates, manufactured in the 1950s, symbolize the city's transition from an industrial base to an ice-and-snow paradise.
Despite facing challenges in industrial transformation, Heilongjiang's ice-and-snow economy has gained momentum, nurtured by the lasting winter sports culture. Qiqihar Heilong International Ice and Snow Equipment Co., Ltd., established in 2015, has become one of China's largest manufacturers of ice-and-snow equipment, holding eight patents and producing 3 million pairs of skates annually.
The company's latest research focuses on developing ultra-light, high-strength alloys for ice skates, breaking through material technology barriers and enhancing performance.
China aims to boost its ice-and-snow economy to 1.2 trillion yuan by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030. With the hosting of the 2025 Asian Winter Games and the flourishing of winter tourism, Heilongjiang is effectively transforming its ice-and-snow resources into economic opportunities, boosting the growth prospects of the cultural tourism, sports, and equipment manufacturing sectors.
More than 500 ice-and-snow events were planned this winter in Heilongjiang, which is expecting to see an influx of visitors. The province's ice-and-snow industry generated revenue of 5.47 billion yuan in 2024, a 7.9 percent year-on-year increase.
China's ice-and-snow economy is expected to break new ground and unleash more vitality with the integration of high-end industries, creating new forms of consumption.
8 Comments
KittyKat
“Transforming an old industrial base into an ice-and-snow paradise is nothing short of inspiring progress.”
Eugene Alta
“The narrative feels disconnected from reality—celebrating transformation without acknowledging the sacrifices made by the local workforce.”
Katchuka
“While flashy numbers and patents are highlighted, the overall strategy and long-term sustainability remain unclear.”
BuggaBoom
“This appears to be a polished PR campaign celebrating superficial achievements while deeper issues are left unsaid.”
Noir Black
“Revitalizing the local economy through sports, tourism, and technology is a win-win for Heilongjiang and its people.”
Donatello
“The numbers speak for themselves—a nearly 8% growth in revenue and millions of skates produced annually is impressive!”
Michelangelo
“The economic projections sound inflated. How can we trust such optimistic numbers without detailed evidence?”
Leonardo
“Transforming an industrial base isn’t just about rebranding—it involves significant social and economic restructuring that’s not being addressed.”