Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng delivers a speech at the eighth Hongqiao International Economic Forum on Nov 6. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]
Speaking at the eighth Hongqiao International Economic Forum on Nov 6, Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng unveiled an ambitious plan to develop the Hongqiao area into a top hub for Chinese companies seeking to expand globally.
Gong said that building the Hongqiao International Open Hub is crucial for integrating the Yangtze River Delta and enhancing China's global openness.
At its core, the Hongqiao International Central Business District has, over the past four years, developed into a major hub for transportation, exhibitions, commerce, and innovation.
In his speech, Gong urged comprehensive efforts to position Hongqiao as a leader in helping Chinese companies expand globally. This involves enhancing connections with international markets and resources to help companies increase their global reach and competitiveness.
To achieve this goal, Hongqiao was encouraged to establish a hub for corporate headquarters, promoting an environment that supports the development and incubation of headquarters economies while systematically leveraging the Yangtze River Delta's strengths in production capacity, high-quality equipment, relevant technologies, and advanced standards.
Efforts will also focus on developing a comprehensive service platform to help companies manage risks and protect their rights abroad.
The regulatory systems for international expansion will also be upgraded to meet high standards of international trade.
Gong also invited both Chinese and international companies to invest in Hongqiao, viewing it as a strategic base for accessing global markets and driving future growth.
