(Yicai Global) Aug. 27 -- The Shenzhen Special Economic Zone has erected many landmark buildings over the 40 years since it was established. Changes in the skyline over those years indicate the city’s high-speed development and innovation.

Next to Hong Kong, the SSEZ was formed in August 1980 and was one of China’s first four SEZs to implement an opening-up policy.

The 20-storey Electronics Plaza was Shenzhen’s highest building when completed in 1982.

Finished in 1996, Xinxing Plaza was Asia’s largest building and China’s first steel structure high-rise.

The Shenzhen Citizens’ Center was completed in 2004. Its curved roof resembles the wings of the ‘dapeng’ -- a bird similar to a roc -- in Chinese mythology, showing courage in innovation and the spirit of striving for success.

The Shenzhen Bay Sports Center was built in 2011 as a major branch venue for the 26thSummer World University Games.

The Shenzhen International Airport T3 Terminal was ready in 2013.

Completed last year, the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center is the world’s largest exhibition and convention center.

Editors: Tang Shihua, Peter Thomas