Pudong New Area is enhancing core functions to better connect with global markets, promoting international trading, scientific innovation, and cross-border e-commerce, with recent deals in Lujiazui, global launches in Zhangjiang town, and Waigaoqiao's international exchanges.

Lujiazui has attracted entrants such as BNP Paribas Securities Services and now hosts roughly 8,000 financial institutions, housing about 80 percent of foreign asset managers and nearly one-third of public fund managers, cementing its role as an economic hub.

Waigaoqiao's Global Hub hosts pavilions for 13 Silk Road partner countries, broadening product categories, smoothing cross-border procurement, linking overseas supply with domestic markets, and fueling Silk Road e-commerce expansion.

Zhangjiang Science City is spawning original innovations with high-profile launches and expanded R&D infrastructure. Rising approvals of innovative drugs and devices, higher R&D investment, and more high-value patents are strengthening the science ecosystem.

The Osaka Exchange's listing of a Shanghai-linked natural rubber contract this year underscores efforts to make Shanghai prices global benchmarks, as the headquarters economy also expands with multinationals establishing regional HQs, R&D centers, and logistics hubs in Pudong New Area.

Pudong New Area is also attracting industrial commitments such as a central Infineon logistics hub and increased multinational capital, with offshore trade topping $90 billion in 2024, while port and air cargo throughput surged.

China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone. [Photo/WeChat ID: pdnews]

Authorities plan to open up more areas in healthcare, finance, and telecom, strengthening the role of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone as a magnet for global headquarters, R&D centers, and supply-chain hubs.