As one of the earliest cities opened in the early 1980s for international trade and exchanges, Guangzhou has developed vigorously and the city's comprehensive economic strength now ranks 5th in the country. Among the city's strategic industries, the three giants are petrochemicals, automotive and electronics and IT, which together had industrial output of RMB 306.8 billion in 2006. Guangzhou's economy and infrastructure are still growing and the city's modernization drive has significantly improved its investment environment, making it an ideal choice for foreign investment. Commerce in Guangzhou is prosperous and robust with 2006 GDP reaching 666.84 billion RMB, an increase of 14.7% over the previous year. Guangzhou has had an incredible decade-long run of double-digit economic growth. Looking ahead, Guangzhou will focus on developing hi-tech manufacturing industries that are suitable for the development of the airport area such as the IT sector, electronics, bio-pharmaceuticals, medical machinery and R&D centers.
Considered one of the most efficient, progressive and open-minded governments on the mainland, the Guangzhou Municipal Government has recently introduced its e-governance platform, known as "Invest Guangzhou", which is designed to provide services and information for foreign investment in Guangzhou. A garden-style coastal city and a dazzling pearl in the south of China, Guangzhou is a city perfectly suited for creating business opportunities and comfortable lifestyles.