The Hub Mall at the Shanghai Hongqiao International Central Business District. [Photo/Shanghai Hongqiao International Central Business District Administrative Committee]
The Shanghai Hongqiao International Central Business District has unveiled an action plan to accelerate the live streaming economy, aiming to position itself as a pivotal hub in the Yangtze River Delta region with global influence.
The plan outlines 15 targeted initiatives to shape the sector's future. By 2026, the CBD intends to establish multiple 10 billion-yuan-level ($1.39 billion-level) live streaming e-commerce bases, launch a talent cultivation and evaluation system, introduce 20 distinctive live streaming scenarios, develop standards for product selection, and support the international expansion of various businesses within the ecosystem.
The action plan follows a framework of "one center, one service port, and multiple specialized bases" to drive high-quality growth.
The "one center" concept will integrate online and offline exhibition-based live streaming, drawing on the influence of events at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) — particularly the ripple effects of the China International Import Expo — to optimize platform operations, activity design, and content standards.
A dedicated service port will help extend the live streaming economy internationally. This includes support for the global development of platforms and multi-channel networks, financial support to build overseas live streaming hubs in the countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, streamlining visa services, and tailoring training programs for platform operators and creators. Enterprises engaged in cross-border trade will be encouraged to expand sales via live streaming.
So far, the CBD has established 22 national pavilions under the Silk Road E-commerce initiative, a Belt and Road platform for international trade and cooperation.
The plan also calls for specialized bases integrating live streaming with key industries. A new Hongqiao Live Streaming Economy Service Alliance will drive innovation across areas such as e-commerce, professional services, and consumer brands, bolstering supply chains and strengthening brand value.
To address talent shortages, the plan introduces a professional training and certification system focused on internet marketing and multimedia operations. Live streaming professionals will be included on the city's urgently needed skill list, ensuring access to talent attraction policies.
Source: Shanghai Observer
