Shanghai eyes trillions in new output from emerging pillar industries

Shanghai, a major economic powerhouse in China, will focus on fostering emerging pillar industries in 2026 to generate trillions of yuan in new industrial output, the municipal government said on Saturday, building on the city's robust industrial growth in 2025.

The total output of Shanghai's industrial enterprises above the designated size reached 4 trillion yuan (around 576.7 billion U.S. dollars) in 2025, the government said at a press briefing.

Shanghai plans to build a total of 500 advanced smart factories, achieve an industrial robot application density of 600 units per 10,000 workers, and establish 200 municipal-level or higher green manufacturing enterprises during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), according to the local government.

In the new global race of artificial intelligence, Shanghai holds four major strengths, namely, synergistic industrial clusters, a mega-city application landscape, a large talent pool, and a well-developed industry-finance integration system.

This year, the city will go all out to foster six emerging pillar industries, including next-generation electronic information, intelligent connected new energy vehicles, and high-end equipment, striving to create trillions of yuan in new industrial output, said the local authorities.

Shanghai eyes trillions in new output from emerging pillar industries

As the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, approaches on February 17, festive decor lights up cities and regions across China along with cultural shows and consumer events.

Chang'an Avenue, the main thoroughfare of Beijing, capital of China, is beautifully embellished with eco-friendly lanterns boasting an impressive 90 percent reuse rate, highlighting a commitment to sustainability.

In Baoqing County, in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, a charming ski town is welcoming Russian tourists from across the border to a vibrant New Year fair, offering them a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Chinese culture.

Business districts in Guangzhou City, in southern China's Guangdong Province, have adorned their streets with 5,000 lanterns themed with the Year of the Horse. They are showcasing captivating Hanfu performances, celebrating traditional Chinese culture and adding a festive flair to the atmosphere.

Xuan'en City, located in Central China's Hubei province, has established traditional Tujia light displays.

Meanwhile, other places in China including Jiangsu Province and Chongqing Municipality have enhanced the holiday spirit with vibrant folk and flower markets.

Cultural events, shopping fairs, festive decor seen across China as Spring Festival approaches