Singapore, China to collaborate more closely in developing Tianjin Eco-city

By eGovAsia Editors | Jan 13, 2011

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SINGAPORE -- Singapore and China are expected to collaborate more closely in developing the Tianjin Eco-city into a model for sustainable development, Singapore's Senior Minister of State for National Development and Education Grace Fu said during the Tianjin Eco-City investment promotion seminar held recently.

"The Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-city is the second flagship project between Singapore and China after Suzhou Industrial Park," said Fu. "The fact that the two countries chose to build Tianjin Eco-city on non-arable land in an area suffering from water shortage underscores our determination to make this project a model for the rest of China."

Since it broke ground in 2008, the eco-city's four-square-kilometer start-up area (SUA) is fast taking shape, said Fu.

"The roads, landscaping works and basic infrastructure are largely completed. Various residential, industrial and commercial developments are under construction.  The Eco-city now has more than 250 registered enterprises with total registered capital of RMB 12.4 billion.  Committed investments amount to RMB 21.4 billion. Developers who have launched the sales of their housing projects in the SUA have reported good sales," she added.

The project enjoys the strong support from both the Singapore and Chinese governments.

Fu said in her speech that the PRC Central Government recently designated Tianjin Eco-city as an “Integrated Demonstrative Zone for Changing Economic Development Model” and providing funding support for its infrastructure and economic development.

The Singapore government for its part has adopted a “Whole-of-Government” approach to contribute to its development. "Various government agencies, such as URA, HDB, BCA, NEA, PUB, LTA and IE Singapore, are actively involved to share their expertise and experiences.  Our agencies are helping to ensure that, in tandem with the Eco-city’s physical development, supporting policies, programs, guidelines and standard operating procedures are put in place," she said.

Fu also announced that companies can apply for a grant of up to S$150,000, and are eligible for financial assistance for expenses incurred in setting up an office in the Eco-city, such as office rental and remuneration of overseas staff. 

"I urge Singapore companies to keep in mind the unique status of the Tianjin Eco-city as a flagship Government-to-Government project between Singapore and China, and consider tapping on the assistance programs offered by both IE Singapore and the Chinese government, to capitalise on business opportunities available in the Eco-city," she added.