The Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone. [Photo/WeChat ID: pdnews]

Medtronic held technical training on its Affera system at the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone, marking the zone's first international training for an overseas cutting-edge medical device since it unveiled its global medical device training, exhibition, trading, and innovation center this year.

The Affera system integrates mapping, treatment, and verification with a single catheter. It is undergoing expedited review by China's National Medical Products Administration and has not yet been approved for sale in China.

Medtronic said the zone offers a valuable platform to build local training and technical service capabilities ahead of product approval, helping connect global innovation with Chinese clinical needs.

Previously, such training was primarily organized in the United States and Europe, involving lengthy visa procedures, high travel costs, and complex coordination. The zone offers visa-free entry for invited overseas participants, with stays of up to 30 days that can be extended. Eligible medical devices can also benefit from duty-free and bonded arrangements, as well as exemptions from certain licensing requirements.

The center is developing services for global medical device training, product display and trading, and cross-border research collaboration. Pudong New Area, home to more than 4,000 biomedical companies and an industry valued at 450 billion yuan ($66.8 billion), aims to strengthen its role in global medical innovation. Waigaoqiao Group also plans to provide nearly 50,000 square meters of space to support biomedical companies' cross-border activities.