BUSINESS circles in Futian and Bao’an CBDs and the Houhai area have been selected as city-level characteristic business circles, according to an announcement from the Shenzhen Municipal Commerce Bureau.

OCT Harbor and UpperHills business blocks have been selected as night economy demonstration blocks, according to the announcement.

The three business circles are known for their substantial size, diverse functions and business modes, and comprehensive services.

The Futian CBD business circle boasts large commercial complexes like COCO Park, Central Walk, INTOWN, Wongtee Plaza and Ping An Finance Center. The dynamic circle attracts a wide array of brands spanning clothing, electronic products, food and beverage, and catering. It also features cultural and entertainment facilities such as movie theaters and bar streets, making it a large business circle integrating tourism, shopping and entertainment.

In the Bao’an CBD business circle, visitors can explore Shenzhen Uniwalk Qianhai, Haiya Mega Mall, Wanda Plaza, Qianhai HOP Shopping Center and Rainbow Department Store, among others.

The Houhai area business circle features Shenzhen Bay MixC, Tiley Frame City, Poly Culture Square and Coastal City Shopping Center. It will be further expanded with the construction of Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters Base and Houhai Super Headquarters Base.

The development of business circles is a crucial indicator of a city’s vitality, Shenzhen Economic Daily reported. In February last year, Shenzhen issued measures on building an international consumption center. The measures state that in five years, the city will build 10 characteristic business circles (business pedestrian streets) and night economy demonstration areas. Business circles and demonstration blocks that meet the designated standards will be eligible for rewards of up to 10 million yuan (US$1.4 million).

Last year, four business circles, namely Shenzhen Bay MixC, Vanke Square, Coastal City and Uniwalk, were included in the third batch of characteristic business circles accredited by the provincial commerce department.

OCT Harbor and UpperHills, the two new night economy demonstration blocks, have become popular destinations for leisure, tourism and culture. (Han Ximin)