The Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, the first bonded zone in China designated to carry out free trade, export-oriented processing, logistics and warehousing, as well as demonstration and trading of bonded goods, has emerged as the largest in terms of economic scale and the most functionally diverse customs special inspection area in China after 35 years of growth, thanks to the efforts of Shanghai Customs.

In 2024, the exports and imports were valued at a total of 1.04 trillion yuan ($144 billion), a 4.6-percent year-on-year increase.

From being the country's first bonded zone to becoming the first pilot free trade zone, the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone is a pioneer in China's reforms and openness. In September 2013, the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone was officially established, with the Waigaoqiao bonded zone at its core, embodying China's aspirations to engage more deeply with the world.

The China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone is officially established in September 2013. [Photo/WeChat ID: gh_01c6f7b4cf3d]

It gave birth to various pioneering customs inspection systems that have been replicated nationwide, fostering an environment of streamlined governance, facilitated customs clearance, and high efficiency and security — speeding up China's global integration.

The Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone is a leader in reform and opening up, establishing an international cultural and art trading center, an international smart medical device manufacturing base, and a world-class biopharmaceutical innovation cluster.

Streamlined inspection for imported vehicles is piloted in the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone in 2023. [Photo/WeChat ID: gh_01c6f7b4cf3d]

Looking ahead, Shanghai Customs will continue to explore and accelerate the implementation of strategies to enhance the pilot free trade zone, expand institutional opening-up and promote high-quality development.