Circular Open Theory

Author: Dong Fan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-25
Features: The term "circular opening and backfilling the hollow" refers to China's opening-up process, where coastal and inland border regions are simultaneously opened, establishing an almost contiguous open-up belt to strengthen cooperation with neighboring countries and regions. This forms an irregular "circular" open-up zone along the borders. Some areas farther from the borders become the "hollow" or "blind spots" of the open-up. The "hollow" primarily consists of the main part of the central region and parts of the western region. As this "hollow" is surrounded by the circular open-up belt, the surrounding "peaks" of openness will eventually exert a "backfilling" effect, driving its development. The central region within the "hollow" is largely located at the core or middle of China, with most of its area already relatively well-developed and facing less pressure to grow. Therefore, it is not a major concern whether it is included in the open-up zones. For the western region and some remote, underdeveloped areas in the central region within the "hollow," the central government should continue to intensify development efforts.