The people of Rui'an have been pioneers in many fields, especially in the development of China's market economy in the form of joint-stock system.
Many kinds of economic systems have been introduced in Rui'an, making regional development speedier.
In 2005, Rui'an ranked 39th place in comprehensive economic strength among the first 100 counties and cities of China.
for capital investment in building Rui'an into a new urban area with comprehensive development of industry, trade, science and technology.
The Wenzhou Yongqiang Airport, a 10,000-ton seaport and the local railway station are each less than 30 kilometers from the city proper.
Situated about 100 nautical miles away from the estuary of Feiyunjiang, there lies the seabed rich in crude oil and natural gas, which are now being prospected and planned to be excavated.