China’s State Council has approved a proposal (TAR) to change the administrative status of Shigatse and Chamdo from that of prefecture to cities. The decision entails administrative restructuring and allows for preferential policies from Beijing.
Wu Yingjie, Deputy Secretary of the TAR Party Committee, said the preferential policies will vigorously promote reform, development and stability and contribute to the well-being of the people in both Shigatse and Chamdo.[Source]