Zhongshan is part of the rapidly growing Pearl River Delta region, which also includes Hong Kong, Macao, Shenzhen and Guangzhou. The Shangri-La Hotel, Zhongshan is located adjacent to the city’s Municipal Governement offices, and just minutes from the city centre and Zhongshan’s numerous attractions and shopping options.

It is necessary to know the industries of the specialised manufacturing towns to appreciate the city and understand the economy of Zhongshan, which possesses six key industries and 20 state class industrial bases.  Each specialised manufacturing town makes a particular product.  Indeed, the "One Industry in One Town" model has become an economic feature in Zhongshan.

Pillar industries in the various specialised manufacturing towns in Zhongshan include:

Dachong Town - mahogany furniture industry
Dongfeng Town - electric household appliance industry
Guzhen Town - light fitting products
Huangpu Town - food industry
Shaxi Town - casual wear manufacturing
Xiaolan Town - locks and hardware industry, and electronic acoustics products