Wuhan is the capital of China's central province, Hubei, and a major hub on the Yangtze River. The city is often referred to as “the Chicago of China” due to its geographical position, a massive steel industry sector, and unique character, differentiating the city from its neighbours in Central China.
Wuhan is the most populous city in Central China. However, it has less international appeal when compared to cities like Shanghai, Shenzhen or Guangzhou. Foreigners choose Wuhan to escape the so-called 'expat bubble' and explore more of the 'original' China. Finding a job in Wuhan should not be a problem, and you are sure to be met with less competition than in some of the other major cities. With that said, Wuhan offers a vibrant lifestyle and a chance to dive into the local culture ' so you won't be short of things to do after leaving the office.
Wuhan economy
Wuhan is a major transportation hub, with excellent transport links to other major cities in China. It is well-known for its production of iron and steel and is home to the third largest iron and steel producer in the country. Other key industries include automobiles, new pharmaceuticals, biology engineering, and more.
Wuhan recorded a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of RMB1.34 trillion in 2017 earning itself a spot among the ten cities in China with the highest GDP.
The city's economy has been developing rapidly due, in part, to its proximity to major metropolises in the country (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi'an are all within 1,200 km.). Wuhan hosts the largest inland port in China and is the gateway to the Three Gorges Project ' a hydroelectric dam in the Yangtze River.
Hubei province is often nicknamed the "Land of Fish and Rice" due to the impact that agriculture and fishing have made on the region. Rice, wheat, tea, and cotton are cultivated and exported, and fishes are abundant due to the presence of many lakes in the region. The province also has natural resources; namely iron, phosphorus, copper, rock salt, gold, manganese, amalgam and borax, among others.
Wuhan has a vibrant tourism sector and is an attractive travel destination for both national and international visitors thanks to its stunning scenery and world-famous cuisine. East Lake is one of the main tourist attractions in the city.
Job-hunting in Wuhan
Expatriates in Wuhan could be hired in various sectors, including information and communication technology, biotechnology, research, petrochemical, optics, and electronics.
Many foreigners exploring career options in the city start in the ESL (English as a second language) teaching field. There is a good base for that in the city, which is home to a large number of language training centres, schools and several big universities.
To find a job in Wuhan, start by checking classifieds ads in local newspapers and job websites or seek help from a recruitment agency if you are looking for a specific position. Beware of recruitment companies that ask you for money. Headhunting agents typically get paid by the hiring party if they find the right candidate and you should not be asked to pay any fees.
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