Spatial production and evolution of commercial ports in the ocean shipping era: A case study of modern Fuzhou and Xiamen in Fujian province, China

Commercial ports are vital regional intersections in the era of globalization, relying on maritime networks and local convergence to facilitate the movement of goods, people, and ideas. The term “The Five Treaty Ports” marks the beginning of foreign territorial leases for trade in China. During this period, the spatial planning and infrastructure development of commercial ports dynamically responded to the rapid progress of globalization. This article uses the commercial port cities of Fuzhou (Foochow) and Xiamen (Amoy) as case studies, examining how advancements in shipping technology influenced the evolution of port spaces. It traces the transformation of urban port spatial landscapes through the “sailing ship era,” “steamship era,” and “oil tanker era.” These eras not only carried the enlightenment of mercantilist ideas and featured characteristics of “industrialization for the nation,” but also reflected the significant influence of capitalist “market expansion” ideas in spatial configurations. Furthermore, the article argues that the spatial representation of modern commercial ports embodies the collaborative forces of mercantilism, colonialism, and capitalism, promoting globalization through trade. This research aims to explore the evolution of modern commercial port spaces, analyze the progressive transition from mercantilism to capitalist production modes, and ultimately enhance understanding of the globalization process within port spaces.