The Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone (PCPZ) and the National Island Research Center signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Dec 31, agreeing to promote the economy in Pingtan.

Fujian and the State Ocean Administration (SOA) agreed on October 2012 to launch the island research center in Pingtan.

Taking up an area of around 100 mu (7 hectares), the Center will be dedicated to research into the exploitation and protection of China’s islands, and provide a service for island administration, and economic development, as well as the ecology.

Li Deijin, director of PCPZ’s administrative committee outlined the construction of the Center to SOA officials at the signing ceremony, and pledged to make the Center a calling card for Pingtan.

Based on agreements, the Center will boost Pingtan’s ocean economy innovation and explore new development modes. Pingtan in return will provide support in infrastructure construction, financial subsidies and the introduction of professionals.