Research on the Construction Path of the Qiongzhou Strait-Beibu Gulf Bay Area

Abstract

The Beibu Gulf port cities (Qinzhou, Fangchenggang, and Beibu Gulf), Zhanjiang, and the Hainan Free Trade Port are separated yet connected by the waters of the Beibu Gulf. The three regions across the two shores all possess natural excellent ports and similar customs and cultures, thereby enjoying a natural advantage for regional integration. However, currently, Zhanjiang primarily serves the “Pan-Pearl Triangle 9+2”; the Hainan Free Trade Port advocates the Qiongzhou Strait integration strategy; and the Beibu Gulf port cities focus on the Western Land-Sea New Channel. Consequently, the dimension, depth, and intensity of cooperation among the three have not advanced further. This paper first reviews previous research achievements, then summarizes and analyzes the development status of the cities in the three regions across the two shores to identify the breakthroughs for their further cooperation, delineates the significance and necessity of tripartite cooperation, and finally proposes measures for constructing the Qiongzhou Strait-Beibu Gulf Bay Area.