Zhu Wenbin, vice chairman of Shanghai Association of Foreign Investment was invited as guest of our Eastday Online Chatting Room

Shanghai, Aug.13- Increasing numbers of foreign companies choose to enter Shanghai in recent years, greatly promoting the development of Shanghai economy. What kind of new changes will these foreign companies bring to this city under the background of Shanghai’s construction of science and technology innovation center with global influence?

Zhu Wenbin, vice chairman of Shanghai Association of Foreign Investment was invited as guest of our Eastday Online Chatting Room and shared his opinion with us on issues around MNCs in Shanghai and the construction of science and technology innovation center.

These MNCs bring along not only foreign capital but also advanced technologies, management modes and excellent overseas talents, said Zhu Wenbin, “Shanghai’s MNCs help the economic development of this city as well as the construction of science and technology innovation center.”

Zhu noted that what the current construction of science and technology innovation center exactly calls for is independent innovation ability rather than advocating technology after the pace of foreign countries. Shanghai’s comprehensive strength has improved a lot compared with the past. But it seems that some shortcomings still exist in the construction process.

State-owned enterprises take up a larger proportion than leading innovative indigenous enterprises in Shanghai. But outstanding MNCs will jointly promote the construction of science and technology innovation center with local companies.

Founded in 1988, Shanghai Association of Foreign Investment now has more than 10,000 foreign companies at municipal and district levels, according to Zhu Wenbin. In order to help Shanghai MNCs’ growth, the association is providing relevant services including interpreting policy documents and regulations and establishing a communication platform for them.

Zhu Wenbin also shared his opinion on “Innovation and Development: MNCs in Shanghai Best Practice Awards”. He considered that the selection activity will set a benchmark for foreign enterprises in Shanghai and lead them on the road of innovation and development so as to help Shanghai’s construction of science and technology innovation center with global influence.

By Ma Jinghua

Translated by Jiang Wenran