Fujian province was among the first to open up to the outside world and was a pilot zone of reform in China.

Since ancient times, white porcelain, from Dehua in Fujian, has played a significant role in international trade.

The province has also produced a host of famous people, including Lin Zexu, a scholar and official during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911) who was known as the first Chinese person in modern China who opened his eyes to look at the world, as well as Yan Fu, a scholar and translator famous for introducing Western ideas.

Fujian has established trade relations with 219 countries and regions worldwide. Over 120 multinational companies have invested in 176 projects in the province. Among the top 500 Chinese businessmen in the world, 200 entrepreneurs come from Fujian province.

China Daily