Shanghai has taken a pioneering step by introducing the first batch of innovation zones connected with the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, extending the application of beneficiary policies to catalyze development in key areas throughout the city.

This strategic move, announced by the municipal government on Aug 15, aims to foster innovation, economic growth, and collaboration across Shanghai's diverse districts.

During the recent press briefing, Chen Yanfeng, deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission, unveiled the establishment of both innovation and comprehensive bonded zones in six districts. The designated districts, encompassing Huangpu, Xuhui, Hongkou, Yangpu, Baoshan, and Minhang, are each poised to play a pivotal role in driving forward the city's economic and technological advancement.

The introduction of more than 100 tailored reform measures underscores the commitment to regional development and features a strong emphasis on aligning the innovation zones with the Free Trade Zone in terms of spatial support, industry collaboration, and policy sharing, Chen added.

The integration of the Free Trade Zone's policies into these innovation zones has resulted in a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering international trade, talent services, industry collaboration, and technological innovation. This comprehensive approach seeks to foster distinctive characteristics in each district, propelling Shanghai to the forefront of innovation and development.

Minhang district has outlined a strategic focus on international trade and intelligent manufacturing, according the district's Vice Governor Tan Ruicong. Key areas such as the Hongqiao International Central Business District (Minhang Section) and the Grand Zero Bay Science and Technology Innovation Zone are set to serve as vital hubs for innovation and economic activity, aligning with the city's dual circulation development pattern that emphasizes both domestic and international growth.

Meanwhile, Yangpu district, leveraging its abundant educational resources, aims to drive breakthroughs in cross-border technology transfer. By fostering collaboration between educational institutions and the Lin-gang Special Area, the district seeks to establish a high-level innovation platform that integrates cutting-edge research with practical industrial applications, as highlighted by Ni Bing, the executive vice governor of Yangpu district.

With a focus on nurturing the online new economy, Yangpu district is set to support over 7,000 related enterprises, including major online platforms like Douyin and Meituan. By facilitating the development of products supporting cross-border data transfer and enhancing services in international trade, the district aims to empower enterprises within the innovation zones and streamline processes such as cross-border payment platforms for small and medium-sized enterprises.