Rural Revitalisation and Tai Cultural Enterprises Showcase at Global Forum

Beijing, July 16 – From Tuesday to Thursday, the Shishwanganpanna Tai Autonomous Prefecture hosted the World Mayors Dialogue, bringing together municipal leaders from across the globe. The agenda centred on "Rainforest and Home: Co‑existence, Co‑creation, Sharing" and featured a blend of plenary discussions, on‑site tours and interactive workshops.

Delegates explored the rural revitalisation programme that has transformed remote Tai villages into thriving agritourism destinations. In Sanman, Menghan township, visitors saw how traditional Tai architecture was preserved while new income streams—such as cocoa processing and eco‑lodging—were introduced.

Three coordinated Tai settlements demonstrated how cultural preservation can coexist with modern enterprises. Guests participated in hands‑on cocoa workshops, learned traditional dances, and examined the economic impact of these initiatives on local livelihoods.

The dialogue also highlighted the region’s critical role in elephant conservation. The 4,000‑metre forest trail in Elephant Valley allows safe, unrestricted movement for the Asian elephant population, illustrating a successful integration of wildlife corridors into community planning.

Attendees left with actionable insights on replicating Shishwanganpanna’s model of green development, urging their own cities to pursue environmentally responsible growth while celebrating cultural heritage.