5. Qingdao: From Colonial Port to Export Base

Abstract

This book chapter reviews the historical development economic structure of Qingdao. It surveys the major issues of its urban development in order to assess its prospects as one of Chinas key open coastal cities. Qingdao is renowned for its port facilities mild climate and scenic setting and its development and colonial history have endowed it with advantages. Several problems on the facilitation of its transformation into one of the key coastal cities charged with the dual tasks of attracting more foreign investment and developing export trades were identified. Qingdao started as a fishing village thousand of years ago although changes have taken place over the years. Establishment of open port and development of commerce and trade has developed the city. Events prior and after the World War I have enlarged and encouraged commercial and industrial activities under Japanese occupation. Intense industrial development has led to urban expansion particularly of harbor railways and water plants. Port of Qingdao is considered as a significant contributor towards economic development and the promotion of foreign investment and trade. However its future development depends on the successful fulfillment of three roles: 1) it is expected to remain a tourist mecca for both international and domestic visitors; 2) its role as an export base for energy resources to both domestic and foreign destinations; and 3) expectations of attracting foreign trade.