Core Viewpoint - The Shanghai Municipal Government has introduced measures to promote the high-quality development of the software and information services industry, particularly focusing on attracting foreign game companies to establish R&D teams in Shanghai by treating their products as domestic games for licensing purposes [1][3]. Group 1: Policy Measures - The measures aim to invigorate the operational vitality of software and information service enterprises, support AI-driven upgrades, cultivate new growth drivers, and reduce costs for companies in the sector [1]. - A notable aspect is the pilot policy allowing foreign game companies' products developed in Shanghai to be treated as domestic games, which is expected to enhance their chances of obtaining game licenses [1][6]. Group 2: Market Context - Shanghai is a preferred entry point for foreign game companies due to its status as a highland of openness in China, with many well-known firms like Ubisoft and Blizzard establishing their Chinese headquarters there [3]. - Despite having many foreign company headquarters, Shanghai has struggled to attract direct game development due to operational qualifications and licensing restrictions, limiting its industry scale [3][4]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The competition among cities for the game industry is intense, and Shanghai's ability to convert foreign company headquarters into substantial investments and a robust industry ecosystem is crucial [3][4]. - Local game companies in Shanghai, while established, lack the scale and experience compared to giants like Tencent and NetEase, making it essential for Shanghai to offer more attractive pathways for foreign collaboration [4]. Group 4: Licensing and Regulatory Challenges - The likelihood of foreign game companies obtaining domestic game licenses is significantly higher, with 1,306 domestic game licenses issued in 2024 compared to only 110 for imported games [6]. - However, obtaining a license still requires compliance with additional regulations, such as APP filing and possessing an ICP license, which presents further challenges for foreign companies [7]. Group 5: Future Implications - The pilot policy is seen as timely, as many foreign companies are looking to cut costs and may find it advantageous to establish R&D teams in Shanghai, leveraging local talent and reducing communication barriers [5]. - The actual impact of these measures on foreign game companies will depend on subsequent policies and their integration with existing regulatory frameworks [7].