Chongqing's permanent resident population has increased to 32.05 million, and GDP per capita dropped to 78,000 yuan (about 12,084.3 U.S. dollars), but its ranking in China remained at eighth and in central and western regions first.

The ranking of Chongqing in China remained at eighth and in central and western regions first. (Photo/ IChongqing file photo)

According to the newly-released seventh national population census, the permanent resident population and GDP per capita of provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the Central Government) varied, resulting in the changes in some of their rankings.

Data showed that the top 10 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) by GDP per capita are Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Fujian, Tianjin, Zhejiang, Guangdong, Chongqing, Hubei, and Inner Mongolia. Overall, the difference between east and west China is evident, with the top seven provinces (municipalities) all coming from the eastern coastal region.

The GDP of Chongqing in 2020 was 2.5 trillion yuan. Yet, as its permanent resident population grew by 810,000 and the GDP per capita decreased to 78,000 yuan, the city still grabs 8th place in China. On the other hand, Hubei ranks 9th with a GDP per capita of 75,200 yuan. Given that, the gap between the two has narrowed from 6,700 yuan to 2,800 yuan.

From Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Prof. Ye Qing analyzed that Chongqing and Hubei were industrial bases and enjoyed a solid foundation, especially in heavy industry, due to their developments during the era of the planned economy.

Meanwhile, the two places established a good relationship with the Yangtze River Delta and the Pearl River Delta, receiving multiple industries transferred from the coastal area of southeastern China.