Published by ChinaMNC · Zijin
Heyuan–Zijin Expressway Breaks Ground: What Foreign Founders Need to Know About Infrastructure in Guangdong
A new expressway connecting Zijin County to Heyuan city center is scheduled to open in 2029, improving regional connectivity. Foreign founders operating in Guangdong should monitor such infrastructure developments for logistics and market access.
New Expressway to Connect Zijin County with Heyuan City by 2029
On October 26, 2026, a groundbreaking ceremony was held in Huangtang Town, Zijin County, marking the official start of construction on the Heyuan–Zijin Expressway (Hezi Expressway). The project is expected to be completed and open to traffic in 2029. For foreign founders registered or operating in Guangdong Province, this development signals ongoing improvements in regional transportation infrastructure that can affect logistics, supply chain efficiency, and market access.
Project Overview and Key Specifications
The expressway will begin in Huanghua Village, Zicheng Town, Zijin County, connecting to National Highway 236. It will feature the Zicheng interchange to link with the Heyuan–Huizhou–Dongguan Expressway. The route runs west to east through Huangtang Town and Bapu Town, ending at Nianfeng Village, Linjiang Town, Jiangdong New Area, where it will connect to National Highway 355 (Yingke Avenue).
A supporting advance project will also be built, starting in Lashi Village, Huangtang Town, crossing National Highway 355 and the Bapu River, passing south of the Jinkou County-level Forest Park, and ending in Jinkou Village, Huangtang Town.
The entire line will be constructed as a four-lane, two-directional expressway with a design speed of 100 km/h and a main line length of 48.22 kilometers. Upon completion, travel time from Zijin County seat to Heyuan city center will be reduced from about 1.5 hours to under 40 minutes.
Strategic Importance for Regional Integration
The Hezi Expressway is a key east-west transportation corridor in Heyuan's strategy to integrate with Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area. It is also a critical component of the long-term Guangzhou–Zijin and eastward provincial expressway network. The project has been included in the Guangdong Province Transportation High-Quality Development Three-Year Action Plan (2025–2027).
Once operational, the expressway will enhance the collection and distribution efficiency of Heyuan High-Speed Railway Station, connect multiple expressways including the Heyuan–Huizhou–Dongguan, Guangzhou–Heyuan, and Jieyang–Boluo routes, and contribute to the improvement of the provincial expressway network. It is expected to promote economic and social development in Jiangdong New Area and Zijin County, supporting Heyuan's green development goals.
Implications for Foreign Founders
For foreign entrepreneurs considering company registration or expansion in Guangdong, infrastructure projects like this can influence business decisions. Improved transportation links often lead to more efficient logistics, reduced transit times, and better access to suppliers and customers. While the expressway will not be completed until 2029, founders planning long-term operations in Heyuan or surrounding areas may factor this into their site selection and supply chain strategies.
Additionally, the project reflects continued government investment in regional connectivity, which can be a positive indicator of local economic development efforts. Foreign founders should stay informed about such public works as part of their broader market research and risk assessment.
What This Means for Your Business
- Logistics and Distribution: Enhanced road networks can lower transportation costs and improve delivery reliability for businesses relying on road freight.
- Market Access: Faster connections between Zijin County and Heyuan city center may open up new customer bases and labor pools.
- Real Estate and Site Selection: Infrastructure improvements often correlate with rising property values and increased commercial activity, which may affect leasing or purchasing decisions.
- Compliance and Planning: Foreign founders should ensure their business plans account for construction timelines and potential disruptions during the build phase.
As with any major infrastructure project, foreign investors are advised to consult local authorities and professional advisors for the most current information and to assess specific impacts on their operations.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.