Chongqing, affectionately known as the “Mountain City,” has long been celebrated for its spicy hotpot and dramatic landscapes. But beneath its culinary fame and breathtaking skyline, a transformation is unfolding. In 2024, Chongqing surged past Guangzhou to become China’s fourth-largest city by GDP, cementing its status as an economic heavyweight. While the world may know it for its vibrant cuisine and stunning scenery, Chongqing is now rewriting its story as a manufacturing juggernaut and a burgeoning hub for the film industry. The city once famed for its spice is now known for its economic firepower.

Chongqing’s Unmatched Scale and Economic Ascent

Picture a city so vast that it covers an area of 82,400 square kilometers—67 times larger than New York City. That’s Chongqing, a sprawling metropolis nestled along the Yangtze River. As of 2023, it was home to nearly 32 million residents, making it one of China’s most populous urban centers. But Chongqing isn’t just big in size; its economy is equally expansive. In 2024, the city’s GDP reached an impressive 3.2 trillion yuan ($442 billion), marking a 5.7% year-on-year growth. This economic surge catapulted Chongqing ahead of Guangzhou, whose GDP was 3.1 trillion yuan with a slower growth rate of 2.1%. The Mountain City is flexing its economic might, and the world is taking notice.

The Multi-Faceted Growth Engine of Chongqing

Chongqing’s meteoric rise is powered by a dynamic mix of industries, each playing a pivotal role in its economic narrative. From a booming film industry to cutting-edge intelligent manufacturing, Chongqing’s growth is fueled by a diversity of sectors that are redefining its identity.

Chongqing’s Cinematic Renaissance: Hollywood Meets the Yangtze

Chongqing’s dramatic landscapes and historical architecture have turned it into a natural film set, drawing filmmakers from around the globe. The city’s urban labyrinth of steep hills, futuristic bridges, and iconic tube-shaped apartments offer a visual backdrop that is both surreal and cinematic. More than 100 film crews flock to Chongqing every year, captivated by its unique aesthetics. Landmark locations such as the Baisha Film and Television Base, where the historical epic Back to 1942 was filmed, have become cultural icons. Additionally, the Chaotianmen Bridge and surrounding architectural marvels, famously featured in Better Days, have gained international fame, attracting movie enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. Chongqing is not just a setting for films; it’s becoming a storytelling hub that blends tradition with modernity.

Pioneering Intelligent Manufacturing: Chongqing’s Technological Revolution

Beyond its cinematic appeal, Chongqing is making waves in intelligent manufacturing. The city has rapidly evolved into a technological powerhouse, embracing digital transformation and next-generation manufacturing techniques. By the end of 2023, Chongqing boasted 144 intelligent factories and 958 digital workshops, positioning itself as a leader in smart production.

The city’s prowess in electronics is particularly noteworthy, with nearly half of the world’s laptops manufactured in Chongqing. This staggering statistic underscores the city’s strategic role in global supply chains. From consumer electronics to advanced machinery, Chongqing is setting the benchmark for intelligent manufacturing in China and beyond.

Driving China’s NEV Boom: Chongqing’s Automotive Ambitions

Chongqing’s influence isn’t limited to technology; it’s also a driving force in China’s automotive revolution. In 2024, the city produced over 2.5 million vehicles, reflecting a 9.4% year-on-year increase. But the real story lies in the meteoric rise of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs). Chongqing manufactured more than 953,000 NEVs in 2024, marking an astonishing 90.5% growth.

NEV exports are accelerating at a rapid pace, with Chongqing’s automotive exports reaching 43.13 billion yuan ($5.64 billion), a 94% increase from the previous year. Leading the charge is Chongqing-based Seres, which has partnered with tech giant Huawei to produce cutting-edge electric vehicles. In January 2025, Seres delivered nearly 18,000 units, with its flagship AITO M9 SUV capturing the high-end market. Chongqing’s varied topography makes it an ideal testing ground for autonomous driving technologies, further solidifying its position as an automotive innovator.

Aiming for the Stars: Chongqing’s Aerospace Expansion

Chongqing isn’t just looking to dominate on the ground; it’s reaching for the skies. The city is rapidly developing its aerospace information industry, leveraging its strategic location and technological expertise. Chongqing is becoming a key player in Beidou satellite applications and satellite internet, with dedicated industrial parks accelerating its aerospace ambitions. The sector is growing at over 15% annually, and by 2027, Chongqing expects its aerospace cluster to generate a remarkable 50 billion yuan ($6.9 billion) in output. From satellite manufacturing to space communications, Chongqing is positioning itself as a leader in China’s space economy.

Government Policies: Fueling Chongqing’s Economic Growth

Chongqing’s ascent is supported by strategic government policies designed to stimulate innovation and industrial growth. In 2024, the local government reduced taxes and fees by 36.1 billion yuan ($5 billion), boosting business confidence and enabling industrial upgrades. The city’s investment-friendly environment is attracting both domestic and international investors, creating a vibrant ecosystem for economic expansion. From subsidies for tech startups to incentives for large-scale manufacturers, Chongqing’s pro-business climate is paving the way for sustainable growth.

The Future of Chongqing: A Global Metropolis in the Making

Chongqing’s evolution from a historical mountain city to a global economic powerhouse is nothing short of extraordinary. The city’s dynamic blend of tradition and innovation makes it a unique destination for investors, tourists, and entrepreneurs alike. Its strategic location along the Yangtze River, rapidly expanding population, and investment-driven policies are transforming Chongqing into one of China’s most influential cities.

With booming industries in film, intelligent manufacturing, automotive technology, and aerospace, Chongqing is setting the stage for a prosperous future. Its cultural vibrancy, coupled with cutting-edge technological advancements, makes it a city of endless possibilities. Chongqing is more than just a city of spicy hotpot and cinematic backdrops; it’s a global metropolis on the rise. From its mountain peaks to its digital skyscrapers, Chongqing is crafting a new identity as a world-class hub of innovation and creativity.

Keep an eye on Chongqing, because the Mountain City is not just climbing hills—it’s scaling new heights on the global stage.

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