International services trade fair unfolds in Qingdao

Distinguished enterprises such as Haier and Hisense have already set up global research and development centers in key markets across North America, Europe and Japan. These centers are dedicated to cutting-edge technological research, incorporation of novel technologies and facilitation of productive research and development activities.

"These collective endeavors have catapulted the enterprises into the upper echelons of the global industry," Geng said.

In August 2020, the central government designated Qingdao as one of the pilot cities for comprehensive innovation in services. Since then, it has successfully undertaken 133 pilot initiatives and made 28 groundbreaking achievements, according to the Qingdao municipal government.

Official data underscores the city's remarkable progress, with the value of services trade surging to $20.89 billion in 2022, effectively doubling since the city earned its pilot city designation.

The ongoing 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services has been a prominent stage for six Qingdao enterprises to exhibit their products, offering a glimpse into the city's promising future services.

"Qingdao is strategically harnessing the benefits of open platforms and digitalization to advance its position in the field of services trade," Geng said.