Advancements in Intellectual Property Rights and International Competitiveness
In 2024, the number of invention patents granted in Ningbo exceeded 11,000, and the city has ranked first in China for four consecutive years in intellectual property (IP) administrative protection performance. This demonstrates Ningbo’s strong focus on IP protection and innovation promotion, contributing to its enhanced international competitiveness.
One particularly noteworthy achievement is the issuance of China’s first digital yuan-based intellectual property securitization product. By securitizing intellectual property, the liquidity of technological assets is improved, expanding corporate financing options. This initiative increases the possibility for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups to secure growth capital more easily.
Integration of Talent Development and Industrial Growth
Zhejiang Province is actively integrating scientific talent development with industrial innovation. In Ningbo, over 500 Yongjiang Talent Projects have been supported, and more than 350,000 university students have been accommodated, fostering strong collaboration between education and industry.
Additionally, the increasing number of national-level postdoctoral research stations and the addition of 81,000 new highly skilled professionals contribute to strengthening the foundation for innovation. By creating an environment conducive to attracting high-level talent, research and development (R&D) activities are expected to accelerate, further enhancing corporate competitiveness.
Integration of Scientific and Industrial Innovation
Ningbo is building the “520” Scientific and Technological Innovation System and the “361” Modernized Industrial System to create new industrial advantages. Particularly in Yinzhou District, R&D investment intensity has reached 3.6% of GDP, maintaining the highest number of valid invention patents in the city. This investment in science and technology is driving economic growth.
Furthermore, in Ninghai County, three leading industries—“Culture + Healthcare,” “Solar Power + Energy Storage,” and “Mold Manufacturing + New Energy Vehicle Components”—are being strengthened. Investment is also accelerating in emerging fields such as robotics, new materials, low-altitude economy, and biomedical sciences. These efforts will contribute to sustainable growth and drive regional economic development.
Promotion of Digital Transformation 2.0
The advancement of digital technology is transforming Ningbo’s industrial structure. The adoption of smart manufacturing, data-driven economies, and AI is accelerating the fusion of traditional industries with new technologies. For example, in the manufacturing sector, advanced automation combining IoT (Internet of Things) and AI is improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Future Prospects and International Impact
Ningbo’s success serves as a model for other cities and countries. In particular, its approach to utilizing intellectual property, integrating talent development, and driving economic growth through industrial and technological fusion could influence policy formation in other nations, including Japan.
Key challenges for the future include:
- Coordination of international protection and utilization of intellectual property rights
- Sustainable employment policies to prevent talent outflow
- Promotion of international cooperation in emerging technology fields
Ningbo’s innovation will continue to evolve, playing an increasingly important role in the global economy.