| MEMO： In 1918, the “Dacheng Zhangku Automobile Company,” founded by Zhangjiakou-based Mongolian merchant and industrialist Jing Xueling (style name Benbai), officially launched this automobile transport route connecting Mongolia. The Erlian Salt Lake region, situated at a crucial junction along the route, subsequently became an important staging post and was named “Pangbei.” The establishment of this transportation hub laid the early foundation for Erlianhaote’s subsequent development into a major port for trade with Mongolia. |
Subsequently, in January 1956, the opening of the Beijing-Ulaanbaatar-Moscow international railway freight line accelerated development around Erlian Station, establishing it as a vital border port city. The urban construction undertaken at that time formed the prototype of present-day in Erlian.
In April 1956, Xilingol League formally established Eren Town. Subsequently, in 1957, it was decided to elevate Eren Town to the status of Erlian City（Erenhot）. Thus, this charming border town completed its administrative journey.
Today, in response to potential ecological and environmental damage from excessive salt mining, the region has implemented multiple surrounding environmental protection measures. The city’s development focus is shifting from reliance on the salt industry toward diversified sectors including international trade, tourism, and wind power generation.
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