Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone in the Works
Shanghai is set to unveil the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone, a visa-free business district near Pudong International Airport, by the end of 2025. The initiative, approved by China’s State Council, aims to enhance the city’s global economic connectivity by easing entry procedures for foreign professionals and fostering year-round international business engagement.
Spanning 880,000 square meters, the zone will connect Pudong Airport with the future Shanghai East Railway Station, facilitating seamless transit and logistics. Foreign visitors invited by registered businesses can enter the zone without a Chinese visa for up to 30 days, with the possibility of extension. A two-tier border system will allow fast entry from abroad while requiring full customs clearance to enter the rest of China. On-site port visa services will also be available.
The zone will feature conference centers, exhibition halls, and office spaces tailored for legal, financial, and consulting services. It will support foreign payment methods, tax refunds, and international-standard medical care. The development is designed to operate in tandem with events like the China International Import Expo, offering a venue for ongoing business activities throughout the year.
Both Pudong Airport and Shanghai East Railway Station are expected to see heavy traffic, with projected annual capacities of 130 million and 60 million passengers, respectively. A 10-minute shuttle service will link the two transport hubs with the business zone. The district is also being built to ultra-low energy standards, with smart infrastructure for managing energy, traffic, and security, and includes green spaces and pedestrian pathways to promote sustainable development.
This innovative project reflects Shanghai’s role as a pioneer in economic reform, combining free trade, cross-border mobility, and professional services in a unified model. The first phase is scheduled for completion by late 2025, coinciding with Pudong's 35th anniversary, and the entire zone is expected to be fully operational by 2030.
