Shanghai has taken a significant step towards fostering regional integration and technological advancement with the establishment of sector-specific innovation associations. The announcement was made on October 26, 2025, during the World Cities Day Series of Events and Technology and Industrial Collaborative Innovation Day at the T-Center in Putuo district. The newly unveiled associations focus on key industries such as biomedicine, integrated circuits, artificial intelligence, and an online services platform. Additionally, 74 technology managers were appointed to spearhead these initiatives. This move aligns with the global theme of ‘People-Centered Smart Cities Towards the Future’ and supports the integrated development strategy of the Yangtze River Delta region. The Shanghai-Nanjing Industrial Innovation Belt, which includes nine cities—Shanghai, Nanjing, Wuxi, Changzhou, Suzhou, Nantong, Yangzhou, Zhenjiang, and Taizhou—is at the forefront of this effort. These cities collectively represent one of China’s most economically vibrant and innovative regions, contributing 11.8% to the national GDP and 48% to the Yangtze River Delta’s economic output. Since February, Putuo district has actively participated in this initiative, leveraging its strategic location to enhance Shanghai’s position as a global hub for science and technology innovation.
Shanghai unveils innovation associations to promote Yangtze River Delta integration
