Editor’s Note: In cooperation with www.sznews.com, Shenzhen Daily has initiated a column that focuses on sci-tech innovation and development in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone.

Chen Siqi

vankochensq@163.com

A LAUNCH ceremony for platforms designed to facilitate the transformation of scientific research projects developed in the Shenzhen Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone into marketable products was held at the Hetao Alpha Building on Tuesday afternoon.

During the event, four platforms were announced operational in Hetao, and six additional platforms that are in the preparatory stage were officially introduced.

Li Huilai, deputy director-general of the Hetao Development Authority, highlighted the significance of pilot tests in transitioning new scientific research findings into viable products, emphasizing the pivotal role they play in the transformation of research achievements. She said that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often face challenges during pilot testing due to limitations in funding, equipment, and laboratory space.

Elaborating on solutions available at Hetao, Li said that specialized platforms for pilot testing scientific research projects — particularly in niche sectors like biotechnology, information science, and artificial intelligence — will be established to support SMEs.

The Base for Laser Chip Research and Development (R&D) and Pilot Production, managed by Shenzhen Jiaminli Optoelectronics Co. Ltd., was established in Hetao in June 2020. Following a two-year construction period, the base’s first phase became operational in 2022. The base has contributed to the introduction of chip products into the market since 2023.

When asked why the company selected Hetao as a base of operations, Zhang Liyong, the company’s deputy general manager, said: “Hetao boasts a strong advantage in attracting global talent proficient in semiconductors and chip technology, and it functions as a hub for the semiconductor industry since it is equipped with comprehensive support infrastructure.” He also lauded Hetao’s favorable industrial policies, which are geared towards fostering breakthroughs in scientific research projects.

The Base for Artificial Intelligence Testing and Pilot Production, currently in its preparatory phase, will be established in Hetao by ZhongGuanCun Hardware Space Group. The group has established over 30 laboratories across China to help scientific entrepreneurs, startups, researchers, and scientists transform their research into marketable products.

“Shenzhen is a globally recognized hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, and it has an influx of young talent and a dynamic business environment,” said Wang Yi, deputy general manager of the company.

Wang highlighted Hetao as a crucial link for facilitating communication and collaboration between enterprises and research teams in Hong Kong and the mainland. Wang also expressed a commitment to consolidating resources and fostering deeper cooperation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong.