Shenzhen is rapidly strengthening its role as a global investment hub. In the first two months of this year, it attracted 1,388 new foreign-invested enterprises (up 23.8%) and utilized ¥8.16 billion (US$1.13 billion) in foreign capital (up 16%), reinforcing its status as a prime destination for global investors.
Global Investors Flock to Shenzhen
On April 3, nearly 90 representatives from leading global companies—including Honeywell, Qualcomm, GE, IBM, Canon, and East Asia Bank—joined foreign business associations for the “Foreign Enterprises Local Tour” organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). The visit highlighted Shenzhen’s vibrant innovation ecosystem and its strong appeal as a hub for business growth.
In recent months, several international giants have expanded their presence in Shenzhen. Singapore’s Luye Medical Group announced plans to build its international medical headquarters and China’s first wholly foreign-owned specialty hospital under new national policies. DBS Bank of Singapore added ¥1.596 billion (US$220 million) to its stake in Shenzhen Rural Commercial Bank, bringing its total investment to over ¥8.8 billion. Siemens committed over ¥1 billion (US$140 million) to a new R&D and manufacturing base for high-end medical equipment in Nanshan.
French advertising leader JCDecaux launched in Shenzhen, finishing registration in 40 days — proving the city’s efficiency.Valeo opened an intelligent manufacturing center, strengthening Shenzhen’s position in advanced automotive technology.
Walmart, Costco, and Galeries Lafayette opened flagship stores, boosting retail diversity and international presence.Shell launched its first global integrated ultra-fast charging station in Shenzhen, supporting green energy development.These projects show Shenzhen’s rapid approvals, industry support, and broad appeal to multinational firms.The city’s business climate attracts top high-tech, retail, and energy brands.
According to the Shenzhen Bureau of Commerce, the city recorded 9,738 new foreign-invested enterprises in 2024, the most among major Chinese cities, marking a 21.7% year-on-year increase.
Pro-Business Policies Drive Confidence
Shenzhen’s forward-looking policies have been a key driver of its growing appeal to foreign investors.
“As one of the world’s most dynamic and innovative cities, Shenzhen offers an outstanding business environment and plays a crucial role in shaping the future of technology, trade, and investment. Investing here means investing in opportunity and the future,” said Arnoud Nijhuis, Chief Representative of the Netherlands Council for Trade Promotion in Shenzhen.
To boost investor confidence, the city introduced a series of initiatives:
- In May 2024, it released a 20-point plan focused on further market opening and improving the business environment.
- In January 2025, it issued detailed guidelines for an Investment Reward Program, offering direct incentives to foreign-invested enterprises.
- In March 2025, Shenzhen rolled out three comprehensive plans to strengthen its market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized business climate, including measures to attract top global resources, improve access to international talent, and support multinational expansion.
Expanding Openness and Cooperation
Looking ahead, Shenzhen is set to further open key sectors including telecommunications, internet, education, healthcare, big data, and AI, with a goal of attracting over ¥50 billion (US$7 billion) in foreign investment in 2025. The city is also streamlining registration through measures like “acceptance with incomplete documents” and offering targeted policy updates and support services for foreign companies.
“Thanks to Shenzhen’s strong business environment, we launch new innovative projects every year,” said a Decathlon Shenzhen representative, adding that the company plans to introduce more flagship events and product launches in the city.
Shenzhen’s growth has also drawn delegations from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Indonesia, all keen to explore cooperation in advanced industries. “Shenzhen’s rapid development and innovative spirit are impressive. We look forward to deepening collaboration through aligned policies and shared strengths,” said Saleh Alajaji, General Manager of Special Economic Zones at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment.
A Global Call for Collaboration
The CCPIT’s “Foreign Enterprises Local Tour,” now a flagship event, has already facilitated multiple investment deals. Guangdong Province, with Shenzhen as its highlight, served as the first stop of this year’s tour and hosted the highest number of foreign participants to date.
With its robust industrial base, cutting-edge innovation, and investor-friendly environment, Shenzhen continues to issue a clear message to the world: invest here, grow here, and share in a future of mutual success.
