Tianjin to focus on aviation, space industries

The aviation and space sectors are set to become the pillar industries of Tianjin, with a host of new projects in the pipeline.

Tony Xu, vice-president of Tianjin Binhai New Area Administrative Committee, said, ‘Some new projects are under discussion and negotiations between Tianjin and potential partners within the aviation segment have started.’

Tianjin is attracting more high-end aviation and space projects with sound infrastructure, flexible policies and support from the central government.

Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC), the country’s leading aircraft manufacturer, is setting up a helicopter company in Tianjin jointly with the local government.

Two helicopters are expected to roll out from the Tianjin facility this year, Xu said.

In addition, seven Airbus A320 jetliners are currently being assembled in Tianjin, with 11 scheduled for roll out this year.

China Daily reports that to attract more similar high-end projects to Tianjin, the municipality is will host a high-profile international aviation and space exhibition, known as Aeromart Tianjin 2009, next week.