Yibin, located in the Sichuan province of western China, is traditionally recognized as the home of Wuliangye, the country's second-largest liquor producer. Historically, the city’s economic profile has been defined by the production of baijiu, a staple of Chinese social and business culture. However, recent efforts by local government officials indicate a strategic pivot toward the new energy sector.

While the liquor industry remains a cornerstone of the regional economy, the city is attempting to modernize its industrial base. The transition involves significant infrastructure and policy shifts to attract investment in energy-related technologies. This move is part of a broader trend among lower-tier Chinese cities seeking to move beyond reliance on single-industry economies. The success of this transition remains a focal point for regional economic development, as the city balances its heritage as a 'liquor heartland' with the demands of a modern, green-energy-focused market.