Benxi (population 1.5 million) was formerly one of China's heavy industry bases, but in recent years has developed into a city of light industry and tourism.  There are convenient rail and road links between Benxi and Shenyang as well as Benxi and Dandong on the border of North Korea.  Benxi is only 31 km from the Shenyang Taoxian International Airport.  The Benxi region has important mineral resources, especially large deposits of high grade iron ore, coal and limestone.

　　Industrial development
　　The Benxi Iron and Steel Mill has a long history of quality steel production in China and has been the hub of the city’s economy for the last 30 years employing almost one-third of the city’s population.  Benxi is currently in a mode of strengthening heavy industries in the metallurgy, machinery, and chemical industries as well as the building materials sector.  The future will see more light industry (textiles, pharmaceuticals and electronics, etc.) developed in the region to meet a rapidly changing market. Additionally, a special economic zone was set up in 1992 just outside the city of Benxi.  This economic development zone with its advantageous location (only 43 km from Shenyang) is contributing to the recent growth of Benxi.

　　Tourism
　　Benxi is a jewel in the crown of all the picturesque places in the region and contains some outstanding scenery and natural features. The Benxi Water Cave is reputed to be the largest accessible cave system in Asia. The beautiful mountains with their lush forests also contribute to make the Benxi region a natural tourist destination. Benxi is also recognized as a leader in the production of natural ginseng.