Shanghai’s Hongqiao International Central Business District (CBD) is transforming into a global trade powerhouse, driven by the China International Import Expo (CIIE). Since its rebranding in 2021, the CBD has seen explosive growth, with import and export volume skyrocketing from 24.13 billion yuan ($3.37 billion) to 75.93 billion yuan in just three years.
Cross-border e-commerce is stealing the spotlight: the Hongqiao CBD Bonded Logistics Center now leads Shanghai in both orders and sales. Leveraging the CIIE’s global platform, the district is fast becoming a ‘Silk Road E-commerce’ nexus, connecting the Yangtze River Delta to Asia-Pacific markets. New initiatives like a digital tech application center and international trade platforms are boosting innovation, while a digital trade alliance taps into the region’s tech talent.
But the CBD isn’t stopping there. Plans for a cross-border data service center and enterprise clusters focused on service and offshore trade aim to supercharge regional growth. For young entrepreneurs and investors eyeing Asia’s markets, Hongqiao’s rise offers a blueprint for tomorrow’s economy.
New initiatives like a digital tech application center and international trade platforms are boosting innovation, while a digital trade alliance taps into the region’s tech talent.
