(also Foochow), a city in East China; situated on the Min Chiang, near the river’s mouth on the East China Sea. Capital of Fukien Province. Population, 740,000 (1975).

Fouchou is a major commercial port; its outer port, Mawei, is accessible to seagoing vessels. Goods shipped from Fuchou include tea, timber, camphor, fruits, paper, and lacquer ware. Fuchou’s industries include metallurgy, metalworking, the processing of tea and sugar, and the manufacture of wood products and paper. Mawei has a shipyard. Fuchou is one of the largest commercial fishing centers in China. It is also a center for the production of fine lacquer ware, which is decorated with painted designs or with carving and inlaid work; such lacquer articles include tea and coffee services, vases, screens, and tables. Other important products of Fuchou include porcelain and articles of bamboo and leather.