A bird's-eye view of Wenzhou. [Photo/CFP]
Wenzhou's GDP reached 240.37 billion yuan ($32.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, a year-on-year increase of 6.7 percent — 1.3 and 0.7 percentage points higher than the national and Zhejiang averages, respectively.
This strong performance signals a steady start and reflects Wenzhou's growing role as Zhejiang's third economic pole.
All three major sectors contributed to the growth: the primary industry grew by 3.6 percent, the secondary by 7.2 percent, and the tertiary by 6.4 percent. The service sector saw notable gains, with modern services leading the way — information and IT services rose 7.4 percent and finance increased 8.7 percent. Aviation and postal industries grew 10.4 percent and 11.1 percent, respectively.
Agriculture remained stable, with a 3.9 percent rise in total output and higher yields in vegetables, fruits, and aquatic products.
Industry continued to anchor the economy, with an 11.5 percent increase in industrial added value. Growth was broad-based, with 27 out of 33 industries expanding. High-growth sectors included auto manufacturing, electrical machinery, and electronics. New growth drivers surged — digital economy output rose 15.3 percent and the new energy sector jumped 20.8 percent. Manufacturing investment climbed 34.3 percent, reinforcing industrial momentum.
Consumer spending rebounded, with retail sales reaching 125.15 billion yuan, up 6.0 percent year-on-year. The arrival of new flagship stores and strong performance in wholesale, retail, hospitality, and dining fueled growth. Upgraded consumption boomed under supportive policies — sales of NEVs, smart devices, and sporting goods all saw double-digit growth. Online retail grew 20.4 percent.
While Q1 set a positive tone, Wenzhou remains cautious amid rising external uncertainties and internal structural challenges. The city plans to leverage policy synergies and innovation to sustain its upward trajectory and contribute further to national and provincial development.
