Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone (IBCZ) is a first-of-its-kind special zone, approved by the State Council of the People's Republic of China and developed by Shanghai Municipality. It is the first and only area in China to integrate the management frameworks of a comprehensive bonded zone, a customs supervision area, and a port restricted area, while simultaneously implementing policy measures to facilitate cross-border personnel mobility and enhance international business service functions. This groundbreaking model establishes IBCZ as one of the most open areas in the world.

IBCZ is located west of Pudong International Airport and north of Shanghai East Railway Station, covering a planned area of approximately 0.88 square kilometers. It is divided by the G1503 Expressway into two sections. In November 2025, the east section (0.44 sq km), designated as the pilot launch area, was completed with basic features in operation. By 2028, the entire IBCZ will start operation with key infrastructure completed for business exchanges, international exhibitions, and international training programs. By 2030, IBCZ will be fully established, leading in cross-border connectivity, international business activities, innovation, and professional services.

IBCZ offers 3 main features and a variety of services: international business exchanges, international exhibitions & conferences, and international training programs. For international business exchanges, it facilitates business meetings and negotiations among international business executives, as well as cross-border business activities by headquarter enterprises, multinational corporations, and international organizations. For international exhibitions and conferences, it supports exhibitions featuring internationally renowned brands, economic and trade fairs, and those organized by foreign institutions. For international training programs, it welcomes international training programs by universities, research institutions, multinational corporations, and industry associations, especially professional training programs such as operation of large medical equipment and aviation simulation. For professional services, it provides accounting, finance, legal, consulting, and testing services. There will also be a platform to help local companies go global and do offshore trade. For public services, it offers state-of-the-art infrastructure of network, transportation, energy, and international-standard healthcare services.

IBCZ offers a series of policy measures to boost global connectivity. First is simplified personnel access. Entry into IBCZ from Pudong International Airport is visa-free for those holding a valid, pre-filed invitation, permitting a stay of up to 30 days with possible extensions, with minimum checks on luggage and carry-ons. Second is one-stop service for inbound and outbound travel. Port visas can be obtained within IBCZ for subsequent travel into the rest of China Checked luggage can be transported directly to hotel rooms. Procedures such as flight check-in, customs declaration, departure tax refund, and security checks can be completed in advance within IBCZ. Third is convenient transportation. Shuttle bus service is available between airport terminals and IBCZ. It takes less than 20 minutes from the farthest end of the terminal to the zone, and 10 minutes when the new T3 terminal is in operation.

Source: Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone Authority