Sanming, China
At a Glance
- Population:~ 2.84 million
- Language: Mandarin Chinese
- Known For: Ecological sustainability, Hakka culture, healthcare reform, forestry innovation
- Sister City Since: 1997
About Sanming, China
Sanming is a prefecture-level city located in the northwestern interior of Fujian Province in southeastern China, covering approximately 23,000 square kilometers. With a history dating back over 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty, the city has developed into a vibrant regional center known for its strong integration of ecological preservation, cultural heritage, and progressive reform. Sanming is widely recognized as one of China’s leading “green cities,” with a forest coverage rate exceeding 77 percent and repeated top rankings in the national evaluation of “China’s Green Capital.” It is also designated as a National Demonstration Zone for Ecological Civilization Construction, reflecting its leadership in sustainability and environmental management.
Culturally, Sanming is regarded as the “cradle of Hakka culture” and is known for its rich traditions, preserved architecture, and globally recognized Shaxian cuisine. The city has also gained national and international attention for its healthcare reform model, launched in 2012, as well as its innovations in forestry reform. In recent years, Sanming’s economy has diversified to include industries such as mechanical manufacturing, new materials, biopharmaceuticals, and clean energy. It is also an emerging destination for eco-tourism, with highlights including the Taining UNESCO Global Geopark, Golden Lake, and scenic Danxia landforms.
Our Connection
The relationship between Sanming and Lansing began in the early 1990s through trade in textile and light industrial products, gradually expanding into broader economic and cultural collaboration. In September 1997, the partnership was formally established when Liu Xin, then Vice Mayor of Sanming, and Chris Holman, then Vice Chairman of the Lansing Friendship City Committee, signed the sister-city agreement. Since then, the two cities have maintained ongoing exchanges in areas such as economic development, education, and youth engagement, strengthening mutual understanding and long-term cooperation.
In 2025, the partnership continued to grow through participation in the “Program for Fujian’s Friendship Provinces/Cities Liaison Officers,” during which a Lansing representative visited Sanming to observe initiatives such as Shaxian culinary culture, healthcare reform, and forestry innovation. This visit further deepened Lansing’s understanding of Sanming’s development and reinforced the cities’ enduring relationship. Both cities remain committed to expanding collaboration in cultural exchange, education, sustainability, and economic development.
Contact
Chair/Co-Chair Name: Anthony Zheng