TEDA Celebrates 40 Years of Innovation and Development
On December 8, 2024, the Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA) proudly marks its 40th anniversary. Established in 1984 with the approval of China's State Council, TEDA has transformed from a salt-alkali wasteland into one of the country’s key economic development zones. Known for its favorable investment climate, TEDA boasts the highest level of economic integration with the global market among similar zones in China.
Covering an area of 403 square kilometers, TEDA now supports ten industrial parks, housing over 53,400 enterprises. This remarkable growth reflects China's commitment to maintaining an open and favorable environment for foreign investment. According to Hong Shicong, head of the TEDA Administrative Committee, "as a frontrunner in reform and openness, TEDA has cultivated the best business climate for sustainable growth and optimistic innovation."
Since its inception, TEDA has attracted an impressive 6,478 foreign investment projects from 97 countries and regions, including 573 projects from 124 Fortune 500 companies. The total foreign investment has reached $69.557 billion by the end of 2023. This eagerness for growth allows TEDA to play a vital role in helping international corporations tap into potential markets and establish connections within industry supply chains in China.
One significant milestone occurred in 1992 when Motorola China, the first major wholly foreign-owned high-tech corporation in the region, was established—signifying the dawn of the wireless communication era in China and marking TEDA's ongoing efforts in creating a robust business environment and regulatory framework. Over the years, TEDA has introduced flexible land-use policies, allowing for 70-year land leases in China, which have encouraged entrepreneurial ventures.
The development of TEDA has forged a conducive environment for industrial talent and production chains across various sectors, including automotive, information technology, new chemical materials, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. Positioned strategically at the intersection of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei integration plan and the Bohai Bay region, TEDA has effectively linked 162 inter-provincial government services, facilitating business operations and management.
In addition to fostering an inviting ecosystem for investment, TEDA has established a reputation for adhering to workplace safety regulations, setting precedent within China’s legislative landscape. This commitment to innovation has earned local authorities recognition as one of the most innovative regions in China by 'Impact China'.
As it steps into its next chapter, TEDA continues to exemplify success through its combination of strategic thinking, industry profitability, and synergistic services, maintaining its status as China’s leading economic development zone for 16 consecutive years. The focus on creating a flourishing environment for local and global enterprises ensures that TEDA remains at the forefront of economic transformation in the region.
TEDA is not just celebrating a milestone; it is also charting a path forward, combining inclusivity with innovation—qualities vital for any thriving economic landscape in today’s global arena. As TEDA looks ahead, it remains committed to sustaining its growth trajectory while welcoming more entrepreneurs and innovators to its dynamic community.