In the face of the current complex international trade challenges, Shanghai's Xuhui district — a hub of foreign trade and investment — has seen a surge in confidence and commitment from foreign enterprises towards the Chinese market.

Recent high-profile events showcasing this confidence are said to reflect a dynamic landscape for business activities.

One example of this is the exhibition Wisher: Where Miracles Happen. It made its Chinese mainland debut on April 19 at the Gate M West Bund Dream Center — a cultural and leisure landmark in Xuhui — and runs to May 25.

Standing proudly in front of the iconic silos there is a striking 7-meter-tall Mickey Mouse figure marking the start of the imaginative art event.

Meanwhile, the Grand Gateway 66, a hip commercial hub in Xuhui, is collaborating with the international Butterbear brand for its debut exhibition in Shanghai, which will run until May 20.

These and others like it are said to be just the beginning of an exciting new chapter, with upcoming events like a major event for the Lego Group — a famed Danish toy producer.

Government support

At the forefront of Shanghai's opening-up, Xuhui has taken proactive steps to stabilize the foundation of its foreign trade and investment. The close collaboration between the authorities and businesses there is said to demonstrate a shared determination to overcome challenges and foster development.

In a recent move, district officials have visited foreign-funded enterprises such as the Xuhui-based subsidiary of Valeo — a French automotive supplier — hosting roundtable discussions to facilitate direct communications.

Thanking businesses for their contributions to the regional economy, officials reaffirmed their dedication to deepening the district's high-level opening-up, enhancing the business environment and strengthening communications channels between government and enterprises.

These efforts are said to underscore Xuhui's commitment to satisfying the needs of businesses — ensuring there's a conducive environment for growth and that it's an ideal partner for business.

Debut economy

With the robust support from Xuhui, numerous foreign-funded enterprises have shown continued confidence in their development, actively expanding their operations to contribute to the regional economy.

Notable players like the Lego Group and Lululemon have thrived in the area, showcasing their vigorous growth and full commitment to the market.

Lego Group's establishment of its China headquarters in Xuhui back in 2014 has led to substantial business growth, with plans for the world premiere of Lego brand events in Shanghai this year — including a grand activity scheduled for June 11 in the district.

Similarly, Lululemon, a Canadian multinational athletic apparel retailer, has flourished since entering the Chinese mainland market in 2013, with its unit in Xuhui receiving accolades as a regional headquarters for multinational companies.

In fact, Lululemon's commercial footprint in Xuhui continues to thrive, with a steady increase in the number of stores and a consistent uptick in performance.

The district is actively collaborating with Lululemon to host a variety of distinctive brand events and community activities — not only boosting its brand recognition and influence, but also fueling a fervor for a healthy and active lifestyle and sports consumption.

Consumer market

Overall, Xuhui is taking bold steps to stimulate consumption and to enhance departure tax refunds — injecting new vitality into the development of foreign trade and investment alongside the flourishing growth of businesses.

What's more, the district has divided its commercial areas into "circles, bunds, streets, and belts" — covering the entire consumption spectrum with initiatives like "all-area," as well as "all-category" and "all-season" approaches, sparking a fresh wave of consumer enthusiasm.

Embracing national and Shanghai's policies like the popular trade-in program, Xuhui has expanded subsidies for car replacements and renewals — mobilizing businesses to participate and boosting promotional efforts.

The district has encouraged 33 local shopping malls to launch a series of promotional activities based on their particular resources.

As one of the first cities to implement the new departure tax refund policy, Shanghai has seen an active response from Xuhui, which is working to optimize related services.

The Shangjie flagship store, located in Xuhui district and specializing in neo-Chinese style apparel that blends traditional elements with modern fashion, has successfully applied to participate in the tax refund program.

Developed by China's textile and fashion giant Orient International (holdings) Co Ltd, it is the first independent neo-Chinese style apparel store in Shanghai to join the policy.

Source: Xuhui district government