Jiading New City, a burgeoning area in Shanghai's Jiading district, recently unveiled its Hengli River Sci-Tech & Cultural Axis Integrating Seven Major Zones development vision.

This was revealed at a promotion event for the new city, showcasing a modern blueprint that blends science, culture and livability that is designed to attract both investors and innovators.

The central "axis" follows the Hengli River, connecting seven distinct urban zones.

These include Jiading's 1,500-year-old cultural zone, an innovation-driven CBD, a medtech-focused industrial town and a future city practice zone that is dedicated to integrated circuits and sensors.

A highlight is the Kejia Demonstration Park built around photonics in Xuhang town. Collaborating with the Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, the park has so far attracted 24 startups. It recorded output worth 490 million yuan ($67.9 million) in the first half of 2025.

Entrepreneurs believe the vision will strengthen the industrial supply chain and enhance the overall business ecosystem. They expect preferential policies to further boost vertical integration and attract more upstream and downstream partners.

The JIA Power-up Space, introduced at the event, marks a new initiative that aims for fast-track industrial application in sectors like advanced medical equipment by combining research and development, services and urban functions in one cohesive platform.

Jiading's urban strategy aligns with Shanghai's innovation-driven growth agenda. With 44 key projects underway, the district is transforming into an innovation hub and a magnet for global talent and capital.

Source: Jiading district government