Changchun, China's 'Motor City' looks to keep economic engine running

Rightly regarded as China's Detroit, Changchun, the capital of the northeastern Jilin province, is facing the same challenges as its American counterpart. Both cities depend heavily upon the vulnerable car industry as the mainstay of their economies and both now need to reassess in light of the global financial crisis.

However, whilst the future of the Detroit automotive business continues to look uncertain, Changchun's local government seems confident that increased investment will allow the city to weather the financial storm, and continue to grow its domestic economy.

Cui Jie, the mayor of Changchun, is honest about the challenges that lie ahead: "The automotive industry is Changchun's most important manufacturing sector. This leaves us more vulnerable than most to the worsening worldwide economic slump.