People of All Ethnic Groups Share the Fruits of Reform and Development, with Key Economic Indicators Leading the Nation

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Tibet Autonomous Region. On August 5, at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office, the achievements in Tibet’s economic and social development were highlighted.

“Today, Tibet enjoys social stability, economic growth, ethnic unity, religious harmony, ecological preservation, border security, and a thriving population,” it was stated. “History has proven that only under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, by steadfastly following the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics, upholding and improving the system of regional ethnic autonomy, and adhering to the Party’s policies for Tibet in the new era, has Tibet achieved prosperity today and will continue to flourish in the future.”

Expanding Economic Scale with Improved Quality and Efficiency

In 2024, Tibet’s GDP reached 276.5 billion yuan, a 155-fold increase from 1965 in constant prices. “It took 50 years to reach the first 100 billion yuan in GDP, but only six years to achieve the second 100 billion yuan,” it was noted.

“Since 2021, Tibet’s economy has expanded significantly, with marked improvements in quality and efficiency. Emerging industries such as clean energy, cultural tourism, and plateau light industry have flourished, establishing a modern industrial framework. Key economic indicators have consistently ranked among the top in the nation, and this year, GDP is expected to surpass 300 billion yuan, reaching the third 100-billion milestone.”

Infrastructure has seen continuous improvement. By the end of 2024, Tibet’s total road mileage reached 124,900 kilometers, railway operations extended to 1,359 kilometers, and domestic and international flight routes totaled 183. Four major power grids—Qinghai-Tibet, Sichuan-Tibet, Central Tibet, and Ngari—are now operational, covering all counties (districts, cities). “Bottlenecks hindering Tibet’s economic and social development have been significantly alleviated, injecting strong vitality into high-quality growth.”

The cultural and tourism industries are thriving. “Tibet boasts a rich history, unique natural landscapes, and diverse cultural heritage, making it a key site for preserving ethnic culture and a premier global tourist destination,” it was emphasized.

In 2024, cultural industry output grew by 23.8%, with 63.89 million domestic and international tourists, a 15.8% increase, including a 188.2% surge in inbound visitors. In the first half of this year, tourist arrivals reached 32.1848 million, up 11.7% year-on-year.

Greater Sense of Gain, Happiness, and Security

In 2024, urban per capita disposable income reached 55,444 yuan, 121 times that of 1965, while rural per capita disposable income hit 21,578 yuan, a 199-fold increase. “People of all ethnic groups now enjoy stable housing, employment, elderly care, education, and healthcare, sharing the benefits of reform and development with a stronger sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security.”

Living standards have significantly improved. Absolute poverty has been eradicated, and 15 years of free education from kindergarten to high school have been implemented. Traditional culture is preserved and promoted, while public healthcare services have expanded, with rural health checkups covering all residents. Average life expectancy has risen to 72.5 years. Urbanization has accelerated, with modern towns emerging across the plateau. Social security systems have been strengthened, ensuring basic livelihoods.

Over the past 60 years, especially the last five, Tibet has vigorously advanced livelihood projects. “Life has transformed from carrying water buckets to piped water, oil lamps to electric lights, dirt roads to paved ones, and tents to modern buildings.”

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, 28 categories of social programs were launched, with a total investment of 24.65 billion yuan, of which 23.678 billion has been allocated. High-altitude heating and oxygen supply, seasonal water shortages in rural areas, and unreliable power supply have been addressed, while fiber-optic broadband and 4G networks now cover the entire region.

“People are now enjoying a high-quality life driven by high-quality development.”

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Tibet Autonomous Region

The Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), located in southwestern China, is a high-altitude region known for its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture and stunning landscapes, including the Himalayas. Historically, Tibet has been a center of Tibetan Buddhism since the 7th century, with the Potala Palace in Lhasa serving as the former residence of the Dalai Lamas. In 1951, Tibet was incorporated into the People’s Republic of China, and in 1965, the TAR was officially established as an autonomous region under Chinese governance.

Qinghai-Tibet power grid

The Qinghai-Tibet Power Grid is a high-altitude electrical transmission network connecting the remote Qinghai Province and Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Built to address energy shortages in Tibet, it was largely completed in 2011 and expanded with the 1,140-km Golmud-Lhasa line, the world’s highest power grid at the time. The project supports regional development and integrates renewable energy, particularly hydropower and solar, from Qinghai into Tibet’s infrastructure.

Sichuan-Tibet power grid

The Sichuan-Tibet Power Grid is a critical infrastructure project connecting Sichuan Province and the Tibet Autonomous Region, designed to supply stable electricity to remote Tibetan areas. Initiated as part of China’s Western Development Strategy, it leverages hydropower from Sichuan’s rivers to support Tibet’s economic growth and improve living standards. The project also reflects China’s efforts to integrate Tibet’s energy resources into the national grid while addressing regional energy disparities.

Central Tibet power grid

The Central Tibet Power Grid is a key infrastructure project developed to provide reliable electricity across the Tibet Autonomous Region, primarily powered by hydropower and solar energy. Established in the early 21st century, it connects remote areas to the national grid, supporting economic growth and improving living standards. The grid also plays a strategic role in China’s efforts to modernize Tibet and integrate it with the broader national energy network.

Ngari power grid

The Ngari Power Grid is a critical infrastructure project in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, China, aimed at providing stable electricity to this remote and high-altitude region. Historically, Ngari faced significant energy shortages due to its isolated location, but the power grid, developed as part of China’s efforts to modernize Tibet, has improved living conditions and economic opportunities. It connects local renewable energy sources, such as solar and hydropower, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support sustainable development.