The Third Front Movement as a Factor of the Economic Development of Shaanxi Province

The article attempts to study the peculiarities of China's Third Front Movement on the example of Shaanxi Province, as well as to reveal the role of this course in its economic development. The Third Front Movement was implemented in China in 1964–1978 as part of China's preparations for war. Most of China's industry was located in the eastern coastal regions most exposed to external aggression (First Front), and the PRC authorities pursued a policy of building up industrial and research capacity in the inland regions (Second and Third Fronts). While pursuing predominantly military objectives, the PRC at the state level supported the prioritized development of underdeveloped western regions, contributing to the mitigation of regional economic disparities. Shaanxi Province, as a “Third Front” region, received state support for economic development, which allowed it to modernize its infrastructure, significantly expand the range of manufactured goods, restructure its economy and thereby increase its economic potential. The article notes that despite the problems arising during the implementation of the course, as well as difficult internal political conditions caused by the Cultural Revolution in China, Shaanxi province managed to realize the opportunity for development. The basis for industry was laid in a wide range of sectors, including high-tech industries, and Shaanxi became a major producer of a number of goods. Relying on the research, industrial and infrastructure base built during the Third Front construction period, Shaanxi was able to realize relatively rapid economic growth, making it one of the leading regions in western China.