On June 26, an exchange event bringing together a new generation of Chinese and international tech entrepreneurs was held in Changning.The event aimed to strengthen collaboration between industry, academia and research while creating opportunities for business partnerships and innovation. More than 50 entrepreneurs, innovators and young business leaders from over a dozen countries, including the US, Germany, Brazil, the UK, Switzerland, Singapore, Japan and South Korea, as well as across China, took part in site visits and discussions to gain a firsthand look at Changning's business environment, innovation ecosystem and industrial strengths.Among those attending were Pu Yapeng, deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization, and Liu Ping, deputy secretary of the CPC Changning District Committee and district mayor.

During the visit, the entrepreneurs explored Changning's business environment, industrial landscape and innovation infrastructure through a series of site tours and briefings. They also held in-depth discussions with leading technology companies, including industrial AI and manufacturing software firm Black Lake Technologies and automotive lidar pioneer Hesai Technology.Discussions focused on areas ranging from technological innovation and supply chain collaboration to market expansion, project partnerships and talent exchange. The visits offered participants a closer look at Changning's innovation ecosystem and the opportunities it presents for future growth.

In his remarks, Pu highlighted the significance of the event and Changning's innovation-friendly business environment. He said Shanghai offers abundant opportunities for investors, backed by a strong innovation ecosystem and a world-class business climate. To support business growth, the city has launched 31 innovation platforms focused on areas such as public services, research and pilot testing, and real-world application scenarios. These platforms help companies connect with potential partners, identify commercial opportunities and accelerate the commercialization of new technologies, while benefiting from a more efficient business environment and better public services.

Liu said Changning's international profile aligns closely with the needs of innovative businesses. Changning has a highly international business environment, serving as Shanghai's gateway to the Yangtze River Delta and an important link between China and global markets. The district is home to half of the city's diplomatic residences, one-third of Shanghai's foreign consulates, a large expatriate community and numerous international schools, as well as nearly 100 regional headquarters of multinational companies. One in seven businesses in Changning is foreign-funded, creating an internationally connected environment that supports businesses seeking greater global engagement.Liu said Changning has built a comprehensive innovation ecosystem, underpinned by a fast-growing digital economy and the development of the Shanghai Silicon Alley innovation district. It is fostering an environment where software engineers work beneath the shade of plane trees, researchers carry out cutting-edge R&D in historic neighborhoods, entrepreneurs hold morning meetings in cafés, and new ideas emerge amid the vibrancy of everyday city life.He also highlighted Changning's high-quality business environment, saying the district is committed to providing responsive, tailored and efficient services to support companies investing and growing in the area.

Looking ahead, Liu said Changning will build on the momentum generated by the event by expanding cooperation and investment networks in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, green technology and fintech. Changning welcomes partners from around the world to seize new opportunities, deepen collaboration and help build the district into a leading innovation hub.