Premier Li Qiang concluded a significant inspection tour of Guangdong Province, emphasizing the critical role of innovation in driving China’s future development. The visit, spanning from Saturday to Monday, focused on consolidating the nation’s strengths in technological advancement and reinforcing its position at the forefront of reform and opening up, aiming for a robust commencement of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).
Driving Innovation Through Collaboration and Support
During his visit to Shenzhen, Premier Li was briefed on the progress of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Sci-Tech Innovation Cooperation Zone. He underscored that scientific and technological innovation is paramount for future success. Li called for enhanced policy, financial, and talent support to fuel innovation. He highlighted the strategic importance of leveraging the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to pool innovation resources and achieve significant breakthroughs.
The Premier stressed the need to continuously develop and broaden the application of sci-tech innovations, accelerating the iteration of new technologies through wider adoption. He also emphasized the effective utilization of advanced technologies and major transport corridors to foster connectivity and coordinated development within the GBA.
Fostering High-Quality Development and Consumer Demand
In Foshan City, Li observed that economic progress and improved living standards have spurred new consumer demand. He urged for a thorough study of these evolving trends and called for accelerated research and development of high-quality products. The goal is to cultivate a virtuous cycle where demand stimulates supply, and supply, in turn, creates new demand.
Expanding High-Standard Opening-Up
At the Foshan International Land Port, Premier Li gained insights into the operations of cross-border e-commerce and bonded logistics. He reiterated the importance of expanding high-standard opening-up, integrating infrastructure connectivity with rules and standards connectivity, and coordinating the development of major platforms for sci-tech innovation, industrial growth, and trade in services. Li also advocated for advancements in digital and green trade, the orderly expansion of voluntary opening-up in the services sector, increased imports, and a balanced trade structure.