Shanghai is the most populous city in
China and one of the most populous cities in the world. A
global city, Shanghai exerts influence over global commerce, finance, culture, art, fashion, research and entertainment. The city is located at the middle portion of the Chinese coast, and sits at the mouth of the
Yangtze. In 2005 Shanghai became the world’s largest cargo port. Today, Shanghai is the largest centre of commerce and finance in
mainland China, and has been described as the "showpiece" of the world's
fastest-growing major economy.