This collaboration aims to leverage complementary strengths and shared resources, fostering deeper ties between enterprises in international trade, investment promotion, and business services.
In November 2019, President Xi Jinping inspected Shanghai Lingang New Area and proposed the Five Important Functions" concept. He emphasised that the new area should become a vital platform for: 1) Talent gathering; 2) Business coordination; 3) Enterprise internationalisation, 4) Market resource utilisation and 5) Participation in international governance.
To implement these important directives, the Chamber of Commerce of Shanghai Lingang Special Area was established in July 2020, affiliated with the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce, serving as a crucial platform for uniting and serving non-public economic figures and a vital force in promoting high-quality economic development in Lingang New Area. Over the past four years, the Chamber of Commerce of Shanghai Lingang Special Area has become a key platform for entrepreneurial growth, hosting 12 "Beneficial Enterprise Salons" and 52 "President's Reception Day" sessions. Actively participating in national strategies such as Lingang's high-level opening-up, the Yangtze River Delta Integration, and the Belt and Road Initiative, the chamber has also organised signature events like the Lingang Special Area Entrepreneurs' Sailing Race. These efforts have fostered a vibrant network of entrepreneurs, enhancing the chamber's visibility and reputation within the business community.
With changes in the global economic environment and the accelerating pace of Chinese enterprises' internationalisation, the cooperation between the Chamber of Commerce of Shanghai Lingang Special Area and EFEC is particularly important. The two parties will deepen cooperation in the following areas:
- International Exchange and Cooperation
Both parties will collaborate to organise international conferences, forums, and exhibitions, fostering economic, technological, and cultural exchanges. They will also support the chamber in arranging overseas delegations for entrepreneurs to broaden their international perspectives. - Policy Research and Consultation
Provide comprehensive research on international economic policies, trade rules, and investment environments. Offer strategic policy consultation, market analysis, and risk assessment to help member enterprises navigate and succeed in the international market. - Project Matching and Investment
Create a platform to connect and promote projects, fostering investment cooperation between Chinese and foreign enterprises. Implement strategies to help Lingang enterprises enter international markets and attract foreign businesses, offering financial and legal support to mitigate risks and ensure mutual success. - Talent Training and Exchange
Develop targeted professional training programmes in collaboration with global universities and research institutions. Focus on enhancing international business skills for entrepreneurs and managers, cultivating high-quality talent for Lingang New Area and international enterprises. - Market Expansion and Brand Building
Support chamber members in entering international markets through market research and marketing strategies. Enhance their global brand image and reputation to ensure success abroad.
Ms Lu Yingqing, Secretary-General of the Chamber of Commerce of Shanghai Lingang Special Area, highlighted the partnership's potential, stating:
"The New Area Chamber of Commerce is very much looking forward to opening a new chapter in cooperation with EFEC, working hand in hand to promote technological innovation, market expansion, and talent cultivation, striving tirelessly to achieve mutually beneficial goals."
Ms Lily Lin, Co-founder and CEO of EFEC, shared her vision for future cooperation:
"We believe that our collaboration will unlock unprecedented opportunities. We aim to leverage our strengths to expand the scope of our partnership."
This alliance builds on EFEC's established presence in Lingang, where Lily has been actively promoting connections between Cambridge Network and Shanghai Lingang. It aligns with Lingang's ambition to become a global innovation centre by 2035, focusing on attracting world-class enterprises and fostering innovation.
Image credit: The Chamber of Commerce of Shanghai Lingang Special Area
