China’s first domestically-built large cruise ship is nearing completion, with over 91 percent of construction finished, according to the administration bureau of the bonded area in China’s Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone. The cruise ship is expected to be delivered by the end of 2023, marking a significant milestone for China’s growing shipbuilding industry.
China State Shipbuilding Corporation, the country’s largest shipbuilder, is working on the background, interiors, and tuning of the vessel, while also beginning work on the second domestically-built large cruise ship in August 2022. This investment in shipbuilding is part of China’s ambitious goal of becoming a world leader in the maritime industry.
In addition to the construction of the cruise ship, Shanghai has released a comprehensive cruise industry development plan for the Waigaoqiao area. This plan aims to create a world-class cruise industry cluster with a well-developed industrial system, top-notch high-end manufacturing, and concentrated consumption resources by 2035.
The development plan for the Waigaoqiao area consists of 20 measures designed to foster innovation, attract talent, and build a sound business environment. Zhao Feng, deputy director of the bureau, has stated that the plan also includes improvements to the relevant industrial chain and an acceleration of the agglomeration of corporate headquarters and sectors of cruise shipbuilding and operation.
The rise of China’s shipbuilding industry has been impressive in recent years. China has retained the largest share of the global market for the 13th straight year, with six companies ranking among the world’s top 10 shipbuilding enterprises. This strong performance has been attributed to the country’s investment in advanced technology and its highly skilled workforce.
The completion of China’s first domestically-built large cruise ship represents a significant milestone in the country’s shipbuilding industry. This development will not only boost China’s reputation as a maritime industry leader, but it will also create job opportunities and generate economic growth. With the ambitious cruise industry development plan for the Waigaoqiao area, China is positioning itself as a major player in the global cruise industry.