The reputation of Shenzhen as a mecca for migrants in China has
been supported by a nationwide sample census which reported an
increase of 1.26 million permanent residents in the city in five
years.
Based on the one-percent sample census carried out nationwide on
November 1, 2005, the number of permanent residents in the booming
city neighboring Hong Kong stood at 8.27 million, compared to 7.01
million five years ago, said latest information released by the
city's statistical bureau.
And the annual growth range from November 2000 to November 2005
was placed at 3.36 percent. By late 2005, Shenzhen's total
population would have topped 8.28 million.
An official with the statistical bureau said the city's sample
census had been conducted among 253,400 residents, of whom 214,600
were permanent residents.
According to the census, Shenzhen leads the country in terms of
population density, with 4,239 people per square km.
Shenzhen, which used to be a small fishing village with a
population fewer than 20,000, was chosen to pilot China's reform
and opening-up drive via the creation of a special economic zone in
1980. It has grown into a leading foreign trade player in the
country.
(Xinhua News Agency May 8, 2006)
