As China's first special zone of its kind, the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone hosted its first major international event on Jan 28.

QuidelOrtho, an in vitro diagnostics company, held its 2026 annual meeting in the business zone.

This event marked the first large-scale international business activity in the zone's pilot start-up area since it began operation under closed management on Nov 28, 2025.

About 900 participants from 12 countries, including China, South Korea, and United States, attended the event, with visa-free entry for some 400 overseas guests.

The Eastern Hub business zone is a pioneering area designed to streamline cross-border business activities. Invited individuals from any country can enter without a visa or other entry permits and stay for up to 30 days per visit.

Overseas personnel only need to complete an online registration via the zone's management platform 48 hours in advance, after which they can enter the zone using their passport and an invitation credential.

Border checks within the business zone are streamlined with fast-track passenger lanes set up for inbound visitors.

At the same time, foreign nationals who need to leave the visa-free business zone and enter the rest of the country can go through pre-screening and filing before using fast-track lanes for customs clearance, saving time during peak hours.

Bryan Hanson, senior vice-president of QuidelOrtho, said the business zone makes business trips to China more convenient.

"It's not just easier for people who have a Chinese visa, but also for people who don't, and who want to collaborate and do business together," said Hanson.

The zone also provides a range of supporting services tailored to international visitors, including multilingual assistance, support for cross-border payments, and access to international medical care.

In addition, the zone is developing facilities for exhibitions, training centers, and innovation hubs for medical devices. By 2028, the business area is expected to achieve fully closed operation, and the entire zone is slated for full completion by 2030.

Upon the opening of Shanghai East Railway Station in 2027, the zone's integration with air and rail networks will further strengthen its role in facilitating cross-border exchanges.

 

Source: Wenhui Daily