Investing In Shanghai & The Yangtze River Delta

October 2005 China Briefing

In this issue we take a close look at Shanghai and the regional cities of the Yangtze River Delta - examining why they have good investment potential for manufacturing and service companies. This survey includes Nanjing, Wuxi, Suzhou, Changshu, Changzhou, Zhangjiagang, Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Ningbo & Hefei and provides demographics for each as well as details of foreign investment incentives and location options. The main article, "Investing in Shanghai & The Yangtze River Delta" is contributed by Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Senior Partner, Dezan Shira & Associates, and Graham Thompson, Chief Editor, China Briefing, and contains discussions on regional development around Shanghai, and specifically Shanghais satellite cities, as well as a comparison between Shanghai & Hong Kong. Shanghais developing trends in purchasing power, workforce, education and infrastructure are all discussed, and contains a table of Shanghais development zones, identifying the main players. Nanjing is commented on as a second regional industrial centre, while Wuxi is described as an up and coming new Detroit. Suzhou is defined as becoming increasingly expensive, while Changshu is given plaudits for it’s green policies. Changzhou is described as the home to Chinas largest tractor manufacturers, Zhangjiazhang recognized as a developing port, and Hangzhou commented on for its burgeoning IT industry. Ningbo is selected as being a major rival for Shanghais port operations, while Hefei is identified as a growing regional hub and a focus on sciences. Shanghai specific developments such as the new Yangshan deep water port, road and rail infrastructure improvements are all identified and explained in this comprehensive regional summary. The issue finishes with an introduction to establishing business in Shanghai and the region, with initial information concerning Representative Offices, setting up manufacturing and service businesses, and entering into joint ventures all commented on, together with useful contacts for further information.