Zhangjiang AI Innovation Town takes center stage in Shanghai's AI boom

The Zhangjiang AI Innovation Town in Shanghai's Pudong New Area. [Photo/pudong.gov.cn]

Shanghai's Zhangjiang AI Innovation Town, opened in September 2025, is set to become a cornerstone of the city's ambitions in artificial intelligence, driving innovation and collaboration on a global scale.

Located in the heart of Zhangjiang Science City, the 2-square-kilometer town aims to gather over 500 AI companies by 2027, with a long-term goal of 1,000 companies by 2030.

The town is designed to serve as a vibrant hub for innovation, offering diverse application scenarios across industries such as manufacturing, commerce, and aviation. This environment encourages companies to identify and excel in niches that align with their strengths.

Shanghai is committed to making Zhangjiang a key center for technological innovation. The Pudong New Area has introduced supportive policies, providing resources like space, talent housing and financial incentives to foster entrepreneurship. The town is also surrounded by universities, which provide cutting-edge research and a skilled workforce.

Zhangjiang AI Innovation Town is open to international businesses and investors, reflecting China's goal of enhancing global cooperation in the AI sector. The town serves as a platform for foreign enterprises to engage with China's dynamic AI market, supporting both inbound and outbound growth opportunities.