Tianjin

views updated May 21 2018

Tianjin (Tientsin) Port and industrial city on the River Hai, ne China. It is China's third-largest city and the most important international port in n China. Founded in c.300 bc, it became prominent in the late 18th century because of its strategic position en route to Manchuria. In 1860, the British and French obtained the right to use Tianjin as a treaty port. In 1900, the city came under European occupation. Due to its excellent transport links, it remains n China's main trading centre. The city is administered as a special economic zone to encourage inward investment. Industries: iron, steel, heavy machinery, transport equipment, textiles, carpets. Pop. (1999) 5,286,800.