Zhoushan – the archipelago in East China's Zhejiang province – boasts 2,085 islands. The islands scattered across the coastal city provide unique advantages and new opportunities for development.

In June 2022, the city launched the "Hello Zhoushan" initiative, aimed at fostering common prosperity across its islands. The initiative plans to enhance the beauty and prosperity of each island, creating a new model of common prosperity with Zhoushan characteristics.

To date, over 260 individual projects have been implemented at an investment of 1.84 billion yuan ($251.76 million). The efforts have resulted in the creation of 17 common prosperity demonstration islands and 12 maritime common prosperity zones.

Dongju Island, one of the first batch of common prosperity demonstration islands, has developed into a "camping island" – promoting itself as a new benchmark for island tourism, outdoor experiences, and healthy living.

A view of the Nan'ao Passenger Terminal after an upgrading on Huaniao Island in Zhoushan. [Photo/Tide News]

Gouqi Island, known as the "hometown of mussels in China", has significantly expanded its local mussel industry. In so doing, last year it generated a collective economic income of 7.76 million yuan and an operating income of 4.62 million yuan.

Since the initiative's launch, islands have accelerated their efforts in seawater desalination, environmental management, and infrastructure development.

Additionally, "Common Prosperity Workshops" have flourished across the islands, providing employment and entrepreneurial opportunities while promoting the development of local industries.