Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation: TEDA Leads China’s Economic Growth
For four decades, the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA), established in 1984 with the blessing of China’s State Council, has stood as a testament to the transformative power of economic development. Once a barren landscape of saline-alkali wasteland, TEDA has blossomed into the country’s first national-level economic development zone, offering one of the most favorable investment environments in China.
TEDA’s sprawling 403 square kilometers encompass 10 dynamic industrial parks, housing an impressive network of 53,400 companies. This vibrant ecosystem stands as a powerful engine of economic growth, fueled by a legacy of innovation and a commitment to attracting global investments. “As a pioneer of reform and opening-up, TEDA has created a world-class business climate for investment to promote sustainable growth and emerging innovation,” states Hong Shicong, Head of the Management Committee of TEDA.
A Legacy of Success
Over the past 16 years, TEDA has consistently ranked as China’s No. 1 economic development zone in terms of overall impact. This remarkable achievement reflects TEDA’s strategic vision, its unwavering commitment to industrial value creation, and its dedication to providing comprehensive synergistic services to its partners and residents.
By the end of 2023, TEDA had attracted an astonishing 6,478 foreign investment projects from 97 countries and regions. Notably, 573 projects originated from 124 Fortune 500 companies, a testament to TEDA’s global appeal and its ability to attract leading multinational corporations. Cumulatively, these foreign investments totaled a staggering $69.557 billion, underscoring TEDA’s integral role in driving China’s economic progress.
Paving the Way for Global Collaboration
TEDA’s mission extends beyond mere economic growth; it champions fostering global partnerships and establishing China as a key player in international trade. By supporting multinational companies in expanding into new markets and establishing robust industrial chains within China, TEDA acts as a crucial bridge connecting global economies.
Its commitment to world-class business practices is exemplified by its pioneering role in attracting the first high-tech multinational corporation, Motorola China, back in 1992. This landmark event ushered in a new era of wireless communications in China, marking the beginning of a continuous effort by TEDA to cultivate a thriving business environment and implement forward-thinking legislation.
Shaping the Future of Urban Development
TEDA has been at the forefront of innovation, not only in fostering economic growth but also in shaping urban development practices. From its inception, TEDA introduced a flexible land use policy that promoted the adoption of 70-year land use rights through innovative land lease agreements. This progressive approach became a model for land management practices across China.
As TEDA continued to evolve, it set new benchmarks for occupational health and safety standards, establishing standards that have become precedents in China’s legal landscape. These innovative efforts earned TEDA recognition as one of China’s most innovative local governments by Impact China, solidifying its status as a leader in responsible and sustainable urban development.
A Thriving Ecosystem for Industry and Talent
TED
A boasts a diverse industrial landscape, home to hundreds of billions of yuan in industrial clusters. These clusters foster the development of technical talent and manufacturing industries across a spectrum of sectors, including automobiles, IT, new chemical materials, pharmaceuticals, and health.
Strategically located at the intersection of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and Bohai Bay Integration Plan, TEDA is seamlessly integrated with 162 inter-provincial government bodies. This interconnectedness harmonizes regional development efforts and encourages collaborative initiatives.
Additionally, TEDA offers dedicated professional third-party advisory services to support businesses in navigating the complexities of financing, operations, management, talent acquisition, and distribution channels. This comprehensive support network makes TEDA a prime destination for companies seeking a dynamic and supportive environment for growth and success. As TEDA embarks on its fifth decade, its legacy of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to progress continues to inspire confidence and attract businesses from around the globe.
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What strategies did TEDA implement to attract global investors?
## TEDA Celebrates 40 Years of Innovation and Growth
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show. Today we’re joined by Hong Shicong, Head of the Management Committee of the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area, or TEDA, to discuss the remarkable achievements of this economic powerhouse as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Mr. Shicong, thank you for joining us.
**Hong Shicong:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** TEDA has undergone a truly remarkable transformation since its establishment in 1984. Can you tell us about its journey from a barren wasteland to China’s leading economic development zone?
**Hong Shicong:** Certainly. Back in 1984, TEDA was a challenging landscape of saline-alkali wasteland. However, with the vision and support of the Chinese government, we embarked on an ambitious journey to transform it into a world-class business environment. [[1](https://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2024-12/64021812-teda-feiert-40-jahre-bahnbrechende-innovation-integrative-oeffnung-und-synergetische-entwicklung-007.htm)]Today, we’re proud to say that TEDA spans 403 square kilometers, home to 10 dynamic industrial parks and over 53,400 companies, making it an engine of economic growth for the region and the country.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned a world-class business environment. What makes TEDA so attractive to global investors?
**Hong Shicong:** TEDA has deliberately cultivated a welcoming and supportive environment for businesses of all sizes. We offer a flexible land use policy, streamlined administrative procedures, and access to a highly skilled workforce. We prioritize innovation, and this commitment has attracted leading multinational corporations like Motorola China, who established their first Chinese operations in TEDA back in 1992. [[1](https://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2024-12/64021812-teda-feiert-40-jahre-bahnbrechende-innovation-integrative-oeffnung-und-synergetische-entwicklung-007.htm)]
**Interviewer:** Your achievements are impressive indeed. What are some of TEDA’s key goals for the future?
**Hong Shicong:** As we look ahead to the next 40 years, we remain dedicated to fostering sustainable growth, promoting emerging innovation, and strengthening our role as a bridge connecting global economies. We will continue to attract talent, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and nurture a thriving ecosystem for businesses to flourish.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Shicong, for sharing your insights into TEDA’s remarkable journey and exciting future.
**Hong Shicong:** Thank you for having me.
