Hongqiao sets up a one-stop service hub at the eighth CIIE. [Photo/Hongqiao Overseas Development Service Center]
The Shanghai Hongqiao International Central Business District (CBD) has demonstrated its increasing attractiveness to international investors, with a notable 70.9 percent year-on-year growth in foreign investment utilization, totaling $659 million in 2025.
Last year, the CBD welcomed 380 new foreign companies, bringing the total to 5,347. It also added four new regional headquarters and R&D centers of multinational companies, bringing the total to 64, across sectors such as manufacturing, business services, and scientific research.
Hongqiao's success stems from its efforts to create a welcoming environment for foreign businesses and to expand international partnerships.
The CBD is now home to 50 international organizations from countries such as Singapore, Japan, Switzerland, and Russia. Key milestones in 2025 included the opening of the Professional Services Centre @ ISCA (Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants) Shanghai and the Shanghai Representative Office of The Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS).
The CAPS Shanghai Representative Office is inaugurated in Hongqiao. [Photo/WeChat ID: hongqiaoshangwuqu]
The CBD strengthened support for foreign companies through regular policy updates and events on supply chain innovation, intellectual property, and green practices. Tailored services help foreign workers with residency and education.
The Hongqiao Foreign Enterprises Association grew to 75 members. In 2025, the CBD hosted 25 government-enterprise communication events with more than 650 enterprises, gathering 32 suggestions for real-time service improvements.
Attendees of Hongqiao's roundtable meeting with Spanish entrepreneurs take a group photo. [Photo/WeChat ID: hongqiaoshangwuqu]
The Hongqiao International Talent Service Center provided comprehensive assistance to over 18,000 foreign nationals in 2025, including work permit and visa processing.
Hongqiao also leveraged the spillover effects of the 2025 China International Import Expo by integrating its service centers to provide one-stop services at the expo, becoming a key entry point for international companies.
Global outreach included successful promotional events in Hong Kong, Italy, Germany, and France, fostering new business partnerships and international cooperation.
