SITUATED a few minutes’ drive north of Shekou, Qianhai is a modern example of the innovative cooperation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The State Council approved the overall development plan for the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone in August 2010.

Covering 18 square kilometers, Qianhai offers four commercial functions: an innovation area for modern service industry sectors, a cluster area for the development of modern services, a pilot area for close cooperation between the mainland and Hong Kong and a leading area for industry upgrades in the Pearl River Delta (PRD).

Built on reclaimed land, the area is geographically strategic: It serves as a bridge to Hong Kong, and as a gateway for the Belt and Road. In addition to its tactical position, it is a place for further economic and legal experimentation. As a pilot area, it serves as a center for innovative change. New judiciary policies and practices are piloted in Qianhai courts, for instance; Qianhai is a place where special incentives can be offered to investors and where the challenging strengths of Hong Kong can be welcomed in.

Qianhai, positioned as the Manhattan of the PRD, is set to blaze a trail to enhance China’s global competitiveness even further.(SD News)