Doing business in Shanghai

Industrial Parks

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Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone (FTZ)

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• Established in 1990, the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone is China’s first free trade zone. It is a major hub for trade, logistics, and high-tech manufacturing. The FTZ offers streamlined customs procedures and favorable policies that make it an ideal location for international trade and manufacturing operations. Location: Pudong New Area.

• Characteristics:

  • Free Trade Policies: Offers duty-free import and export, bonded warehousing, and simplified customs clearance.

  • Logistics and Distribution Hub: Strategically located near the Port of Shanghai, one of the busiest ports in the world, facilitating efficient global trade and logistics.

  • Diverse Industry Base: Hosts companies in electronics, automotive, biotechnology, and machinery manufacturing.

• Benefits for Foreign Companies:

  • Tax Incentives: Exemptions and reductions in tariffs, VAT, and corporate income tax for certain sectors.

  • Logistics Efficiency: Proximity to major ports and airports, providing fast access to international markets.

  • Regulatory Flexibility: Simplified import/export procedures and flexible foreign exchange management.

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Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park

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• Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park is a leading center for high-tech industries in Shanghai, focusing on sectors such as information technology, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor manufacturing. The park is known for its innovation ecosystem, which includes R&D centers, incubators, and academic institutions. Location: Pudong New Area.

• Characteristics:

  • Innovation Ecosystem: Home to more than 10,000 companies, including global giants like Intel, IBM, and Roche, as well as numerous startups and research institutions.

  • Academic and Industry Collaboration: Close ties with top universities and research centers foster innovation and technology transfer.

  • Advanced Infrastructure: Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for R&D, manufacturing, and product testing.

• Benefits for Foreign Companies:

  • R&D Support: Access to cutting-edge research facilities, skilled talent, and government grants for innovation projects.

  • Strategic Partnerships: Opportunities to collaborate with global tech leaders, research institutions, and local startups.

  • Talent Pool: Availability of highly qualified professionals, particularly in IT, biotech, and engineering fields.

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Jinqiao Export Processing Zone

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• The Jinqiao Export Processing Zone is one of Shanghai’s most advanced manufacturing hubs, specializing in electronics, automotive, and precision machinery. The zone supports export-oriented industries and offers a range of services tailored to multinational companies. Location: Pudong New Area.

• Characteristics:

  • Export-Oriented: Focuses on high-end manufacturing and assembly for export markets, with streamlined customs and export procedures.

  • Automotive and Electronics Hub: Hosts major international manufacturers, including General Motors, Delphi, and Bosch.

  • Integrated Facilities: Offers complete support services, including logistics, warehousing, and supply chain management.

• Benefits for Foreign Companies:

  • Customs Benefits: Reduced customs duties and streamlined export processes, making it easier and cheaper to ship goods internationally.

  • Manufacturing Excellence: Access to world-class manufacturing facilities and an experienced industrial workforce.

  • Supply Chain Integration: Proximity to a comprehensive network of suppliers and logistics providers.

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Caohejing Hi-Tech Park

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• Caohejing Hi-Tech Park is one of the oldest and most prestigious industrial parks in Shanghai, focusing on high-tech industries such as software development, electronics, and biomedicine. It is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting both domestic and foreign technology companies. Location: Xuhui District.

• Characteristics:

  • High-Tech Focus: Specializes in software, IT, electronics, and biotech, with over 1,500 companies operating in the park.

  • Innovation and R&D: Strong emphasis on research and development, with numerous labs, incubators, and innovation centers.

  • Business-Friendly Environment: Offers a range of services to support startups and established businesses, including funding, legal, and HR services.

• Benefits for Foreign Companies:

  • Innovation Support: Government incentives for R&D, including grants, tax breaks, and subsidies for high-tech projects.

  • Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Opportunities to collaborate with local startups, research institutes, and other tech companies.

  • Strategic Location: Centrally located in Shanghai, providing easy access to the city’s business districts and transportation networks.

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Shanghai Chemical Industry Park

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• Shanghai Chemical Industry Park is one of the largest and most advanced chemical industry zones in Asia. The park is dedicated to the chemical and petrochemical industries, hosting a range of companies involved in the production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and materials. Location: Caojing, Jinshan District.

• Characteristics:

  • Integrated Chemical Zone: Provides comprehensive services and infrastructure tailored to the needs of the chemical industry, including waste treatment, energy supply, and logistics.

  • Sustainability Focus: Emphasizes environmental protection, with advanced waste treatment and emission control systems.

  • Major Industry Players: Hosts global chemical giants such as BASF, Bayer, and Dow Chemical.

• Benefits for Foreign Companies:

  • Infrastructure: Access to specialized facilities, including chemical processing plants, pipelines, and waste management systems.

  • Environmental Compliance: Assistance with meeting Chinese environmental regulations and access to sustainable technologies.

  • Collaborative Opportunities: Potential for partnerships with leading global chemical firms and access to a well-established supply chain.

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Fengxian Industrial Park

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• Fengxian Industrial Park is a key area for manufacturing and industrial development in Shanghai. It focuses on industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and light manufacturing. The park offers a cost-effective alternative to more central locations while still providing access to Shanghai’s vast market and resources. Location: Fengxian District.

• Characteristics:

  • Diversified Industry Base: Includes sectors such as food and beverage, healthcare, cosmetics, and machinery manufacturing.

  • Cost-Effective: Lower operating costs compared to other industrial parks in Shanghai, making it attractive for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

  • Pro-Business Environment: Supportive policies and services designed to help businesses grow and thrive.

• Benefits for Foreign Companies:

  • Lower Costs: Competitive land prices, rental rates, and operational costs compared to other areas in Shanghai.

  • Industry-Specific Services: Tailored support for industries like food processing and cosmetics, including regulatory guidance and quality control.

  • Access to Market: Proximity to Shanghai’s large consumer market and robust logistics infrastructure.

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