What they say

Delegates at the Changchun New Area Opening-up and Development Forum shared their insights on new economic trends and the development of the emerging area

Changchun has a fast-growing, open economy, but still lags behind some coastal cities. It should seize the opportunities brought by a new round of reform and opening-up to develop high-end industries and build industrial chains with local characteristics. A high-quality open economy and an upgraded industrial structure will help in the revitalization of Changchun, one of the first industrial bases established in China. Changchun New Area has the foundation to develop an open economy and the experience to nurture high-end industries, but problems remain in many areas, including its low level of opening-up and weak resource integration. Changchun will build a trade and logistics center in Northeast Asia and a regional hub for the Belt and Road Initiative by developing an open economy and new pillar industries.

Li Guanghui, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation at the Ministry of Commerce

Industry 4.0 is still in its infancy in China. The domestic automation industry is still not developed enough to fulfill local demand and high-quality requirements. In the medium-term, the market for automation will rapidly drive growth - potentially on a global level. Chinese companies excel in innovation based on customers' requirements. Companies' innovation is complemented by government-driven technology innovation in select strategic fields.

Otthein Herzog, a researcher at the German National Academy of Science and Engineering

Changchun New Area is an economic region with outstanding potential. It should be built into a district of sustainable innovation, industry and business. Its plan should focus on both economic growth and improving people's lives.

An innovation ecosystem should be built with input from universities, institutes, laboratories and technical centers for enterprises. The focuses of their research should include new materials, new energy, biomedicine, ecological agriculture, and service platforms for government affairs, information, finance and public services.

Jyri Nieminen, chief sustainability officer of Sweco Finland Ltd

Improving the business environment, introducing innovative technologies and constructing industrial clusters are important elements in developing Changchun New Area. It is also necessary to expand the industrial chain with an emphasis on the application of internet technologies and intelligent manufacturing. Since the business environment matters most for investors, an ideal legal and policy environment is of great significance. In addition, the service level should meet companies' and professionals' demands.

Liu Binglian, dean of the College of Economic and Social Development of Nankai University

To attract more high-level professionals and retain them, Changchun New Area needs to focus on developing high-end industries and commercializing scientific research. The related-services and facilities should be further strengthened to provide better conditions for professionals. The planning should conform to modern trends and characteristics, with both software and hardware elements being emphasized. This place has a very strong industrial base and great potential.

Sun Guowei, senior supervisor of the North Asia business planning department of Surbana Jurong Private Ltd