Reform pioneer celebrates far-reaching progress over 43 years

Zhong said arriving in Shenzhen was like stepping into a world of contradictions, as the dusty streets were home to glimmering fast-rising skyscrapers.

Despite having limited resources, he tried his hand at different ventures, ranging from starting a small restaurant to engaging in electronics manufacturing. Despite initial setbacks, his willingness to adapt and keen eye for emerging trends allowed him to capitalize on changing market dynamics.

"People say we are all products of our time. I think I should really appreciate living at such a good time, because my career and I have grown together in the robust city of Shenzhen," Zhong said.

Saturday marks the 43rd anniversary of Shenzhen being designated as China's first SEZ. Over the years, the city has progressed from being a fishing village on the South China Sea coast into a modern metropolis comparable to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong.

Before becoming a SEZ, Shenzhen had only 330,000 residents in 1979, with a GDP of $131 million. Now, it ranks third on the list of Chinese cities with a GDP of over $481 billion a year, higher than that of countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam and South Africa.