Huzhou signs agreements for key projects with Shanghai. [Photo/Tide News]

Huzhou in Zhejiang province revealed its strategic plan to develop into the golden west wing of Shanghai's Hongqiao International Open Hub at a promotion conference in Shanghai on Dec 20.

With the upcoming launch of the Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway, Huzhou will be within a one-hour commute of Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hangzhou. Transitioning from a geographical center to a development focal point, Huzhou plans to integrate more deeply with Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta.

Key initiatives include establishing a green smart manufacturing industry cluster, a sci-tech innovation incubation park, and a green open corridor to boost industries and connectivity.

During the conference, Huzhou signed agreements for 72 projects worth 67.52 billion yuan ($9.25 billion), covering key fields such as regional cooperation, manufacturing, foreign investment, and the modern service industry.

To accelerate integration with the Shanghai metropolitan area, Huzhou announced favorable policies, including a 2-billion-yuan talent fund to support high-level talent from Shanghai in starting businesses in Huzhou.

To boost tourism, visitors will be able to access designated attractions for free and enjoy discounts at various venues within 72 hours of arriving via the new high-speed rail until Dec 31, 2025. This initiative involves 18 scenic spots and 97 cultural tourism venues in Huzhou.