According to Wang, the city received investment of more than 37 billion yuan in industrial projects last year, up 42.2 percent year-on-year.

The second and third phases of a large paper production facility are also under construction, according to Wang. The first phase produced paper valued at 7.8 billion yuan last year.

Wang said the city's strategy to develop large industrial projects is in line with the central government's determination to better explore maritime resources.

In the Report on the Work of the Government, Premier Li Keqiang said China will intensify the planning and building of a 21st century maritime Silk Road and steadfastly promote land and marine development in a coordinated way.

"With abundant maritime resources, including natural gas, crude oil, fisheries and offshore wind, the city has unique advantages for oceanic industries," Wang said.

The central government gave approval for Zhanjiang to become a comprehensive experimental zone for developing the maritime economy in Guangdong in 2011.

The city will apply for permission to establish a comprehensive bonded port zone and a bonded logistics area, according to Wang.

"We need to accelerate development of supplementary facilities to support the large industrial projects," Wang said.

According to Wang, the city will set up trade and economic offices in Europe and the United States to boost relations.

Top 10 trading partners of the Chinese mainland	China's top 10 richest cities