Pudong New Area in East China's Shanghai released a three-year action plan on Feb 23 to accelerate digital transformation of its economy.

Xia Yuzhong, deputy director of Pudong's Science and Economy Commission, said that Pudong will expand the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to energize industries, and push forward the integrated development of digital economy and the real economy, which will advance the high-quality development of its economic sector.

According to the action plan, Pudong will accomplish breakthroughs in 50 key technologies by the end of 2023, produce 10 landmark scientific and technological achievements, establish 10 open and innovative platforms, and develop 300 digital transformation application scenarios. The government will also stimulate the development of the software and information service business, which is expected to reach a value of 375 billion yuan ($59.35 billion) by 2023.

Xia added that the local government will try out efforts to develop Pudong into a major hub of AI innovations and applications globally, a demonstration area for digital economic development and a pioneer area for socialist modernization.

In order to achieve the goals, the local government has made specific plans including strengthening basic industries, achieving synergy between pollution and carbon reduction and improvement of the eco-environment, and promoting digital transformation.

Pudong has led the country in digital economic transformation and development. China's first financial data port was launched in Pudong last July, addressing the central government's plan to build Pudong into a pioneer for China's socialist modernization.

According to official data, the port has attracted a total investment of nearly 600 million yuan since its establishment. The port plans to build a complete industrial chain for financial data, and set up a innovation platform for financial data in the coming years.

Pudong's agricultural sector has also benefited from the area's digital transformation and development. According to local authorities, a total of 220 mu (14.67 hectares) of 5G-assisted smart farms have been built in Pudong, which have boosted agricultural production and saved labor cost. The wider use of farming machines and digital technologies, as well as the introduction of new operational models have deepened agricultural modernization in the area. 

Pudong New Area in East China's Shanghai releases a three-year action plan to accelerate digital transformation of its economy. [Photo/Sipa]