Objective/Meaning  In order to implement the strategic plan of the CPC Central Committee to explore new pathways for the integrated development across the Taiwan Straits and promote the integration practice of the two sides in the rural areas, the construction of the first Cross-Strait Rural Integrated Development Pilot Zone in Sanming of Fujian was taken as an example, and its experiences and lessons were summarized, in order to provide a model reference and practical enlightenment for other regions to promote the cross-strait integrated development.

Methods/Procedures  Through policy analysis, typical case combing and field research, the practical paths of the pilot zone in the dimensions of industrial integration, social governance and cultural exchange were systematically reviewed, and its problems in the aspects of insufficient coordination of project planning, fragmentation of governance system and weak identity-building mechanism were revealed. Last, the optimization suggestions were put forward based on the theoretical framework of integrated development.

Results/Conclusions  The study found that Sanming has preliminarily established a replicable and scalable integrated development model through the resource complementarity, institutional innovation and platform construction. However, the deeper integration required addressing the institutional gaps, enhancing the policy coordination, and strengthening the grassroots functions. Sanming’s experience provided a practical sample for the regions with relatively weak resource foundations to advance the integrated development.