As the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region celebrates its 70th anniversary, numbers tell a story of rapid transformation. From a modest economy in 1955 to a booming regional hub in 2024, the data paints a vivid picture of growth across key sectors.
Economic Leap: In 2024, Xinjiang's regional gross domestic product (GDP) surpassed 2 trillion yuan (around $281.4 billion). That's 203 times its 1955 output, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 8% over seven decades.
Transportation Revolution: Transport infrastructure has expanded massively. By 2025, the region's railway network stretched 9,234 kilometers, while the highway system grew from just 8,820 km in 1955 to 231,900 km in 2024, connecting cities and remote communities alike.
Demographic Diversification: Population figures have soared, from 4.78 million in 1953 to 25.85 million by 2020. Ethnic minority communities saw particular growth, climbing from 4.45 million to 14.93 million over the same period, enriching the region's cultural tapestry.
These milestones underscore Xinjiang's evolving role as a dynamic crossroads of trade, tourism, and innovation, offering a compelling blueprint for transformation fueled by strategic investments and cultural diversity for globally minded audiences.
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Development of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in numbers
cgtn.com
