The Yangkou Port Chemical Pilot Base, one of the first three bases of its kind in Jiangsu province, opened on May 28. Since its launch, it has been advancing preparatory work for the six initial projects.

Chemical pilot testing refers to the stage of scientific research conducted between successful laboratory experiments and full-scale industrial production. It is a critical step for verifying the feasibility, stability, and safety of new chemical products, processes, and technologies.

"The base mainly offers services such as project approval, evaluation, talent recruitment, and financing," said Shu Yuejun, general manager of Jiangsu Nayang New Materials Technology Development, which operates the base.

Shu emphasized the base's unique collaborative innovation model, involving joint efforts by government, enterprises, and academic institutions to combine policy support, industrial expertise, and research capabilities.

Focusing on innovative chemical materials — including nanomaterials, electronic chemicals, new energy materials, fiber materials, and functional membranes — the base is equipped with 12 laboratories, a shared technology and testing platform, a full 5G intelligent monitoring system, and comprehensive support facilities. It not only supports the industrial extension needs of local enterprises but also attracts high-quality projects from across the country and the globe.

Yangkou Port already boasts a solid industrial foundation in new materials, accounting for 60 percent of the sector's annual output value of over 50 billion yuan ($6.99 billion) in Rudong county.

Looking ahead, the port will strive to accelerate development. A high-standard innovation incubation center is set to open this month to nurture promising startups. Meanwhile, a planned nanomaterials industrial park will be formed, integrating upstream and downstream enterprises to create a complete industrial ecosystem.