China's progress in economic resumption on Sept 21

China's success in controlling COVID-19 means the economy is in a steady revival mode. The following facts and figures indicate how the country is forging ahead in resuming work and production:

— The State Council, China's cabinet, has issued a master plan for three new pilot free trade zones (FTZs) in Beijing, Hunan and Anhui amid efforts to elevate the country's opening-up to a higher level.

The plan outlines the priorities for each zone and pledges to give them greater reform space so as to carry out in-depth exploration and expand opening-up.

The Beijing pilot FTZ will focus on supporting the construction of an innovation center with global influence. It will accelerate the construction of a leading area for the expansion of trade in services and a pilot area for the digital economy.

— China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism has recommended 300 quality rural tourism routes ahead of the upcoming National Day holiday.

The routes cover all provincial-level regions in the country, featuring road trips, sightseeing and homestays.

According to the ministry, rural tourism has been gaining popularity among holidaymakers as they place more emphasis on safety, health and the feeling of coziness during travel. Due to the impact of COVID-19, tourists tend to choose shorter trips in order to spend less time traveling.

The recommended routes are meant to tap into local cultural and agricultural resources and boost economic growth.

— China's pickup truck market registered robust growth in August, industry data showed.

A total of 41,000 units were sold last month, up 36 percent year-on-year, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

During the January-August period, sales of pickup trucks went up 3 percent from a year ago.

Pickup trucks, which combine the features of passenger and commercial vehicles, have become increasingly popular in the country in recent years, the CPCA said.