Zhong Guo Zheng Quan Bao·2026-01-05 23:16Core Viewpoint - Ningbo is emerging as a significant economic powerhouse in China, showcasing robust growth in its GDP and a strong focus on innovation and high-tech industries, particularly in the manufacturing sector. Economic Growth - Since joining the "trillion GDP club" in 2018, Ningbo's GDP has steadily increased, reaching 1.35 trillion yuan in the first three quarters of 2025, with a year-on-year growth of 5.0% [1] - Investments in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and robotics, high-tech services, and technology services have seen significant growth rates of 9.3%, 41.2%, and 56.7% respectively [1] Manufacturing and Innovation - Ningbo is home to 119 national manufacturing champions, maintaining the top position in China for eight consecutive years [3] - The city is recognized for its strong manufacturing base, vibrant private economy, and active foreign trade, which collectively foster an environment conducive to innovation [6] - Approximately 90% of R&D institutions, personnel, and investments, along with over 80% of invention patents, originate from enterprises in Ningbo [8] Global Market Presence - Ningbo's manufacturing sector has gained significant global influence, with notable companies like Sunny Optical Technology supplying one-third of the world's Android phone optical lenses [9] - Long阳科技, listed on the STAR Market, has dominated the global market for optical reflection films with a 55% market share, breaking the long-standing monopoly of Japanese and Korean firms [9] Emerging Industries - The humanoid robot industry in Ningbo is rapidly developing, with the number of companies capable of producing humanoid robots increasing from 3 to 8 since 2025 [10] - The city has established a strong presence in the new energy vehicle supply chain, housing 22 manufacturing champions and 97 specialized "little giant" enterprises [10] Financial Support and Innovation - Ningbo's financial sector has seen a significant increase, with a financial industry value added of 1.224 trillion yuan in the first three quarters of 2025, marking a 13.8% year-on-year growth [16] - The city has implemented various financial tools to support innovation, including specialized loans and risk-sharing mechanisms, which have facilitated the growth of high-tech enterprises [18] Policy and Strategic Initiatives - Ningbo has introduced several policies to enhance its innovation ecosystem, including the "Ningbo City Science and Technology Innovation Regulations" and the establishment of high-level innovation platforms [14] - The government is actively promoting collaboration between enterprises and research institutions to foster innovation and address industry challenges [22] Trade and Export Growth - Ningbo has organized over 300 enterprises to participate in international exhibitions, achieving an intended transaction amount exceeding 5 billion USD [15] - The city has seen a 7% increase in trade with Central and Eastern European countries, with exports reaching 45.45 billion yuan in the first three quarters of 2025 [15] Capital Market Engagement - Ningbo has a robust capital market, with 125 listed companies, including 46 national champions, leveraging capital for technological development and capacity expansion [24] - The city has established a nurturing environment for startups and innovative enterprises, with a focus on attracting long-term capital to support technological advancements [27]