Xi'an fosters integration of sci-tech and industrial innovation

Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province, rolled out nine policy documents in three major areas for the deep integration of scientific and technological innovation with industrial innovation, as revealed at a press conference held by the information office of the Xi'an municipal people's government on July 24.

The policies stated that the city's corporate R&D investment will account for around 60 percent of total social R&D investment by 2026.

Emphasis will be placed on supporting collaborative innovation platforms between enterprises and schools, jointly conducting scientific research, helping universities and research institutes serve enterprise innovation, and promoting the transformation of more scientific achievements into products to drive industrial growth.

Leveraging the Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbour (iHarbour), efforts will be focused on creating a demonstration zone for the integrated development of education and technological talent. This will involve enhancing innovation capabilities at local universities like Xi'an Jiaotong University, improving infrastructure at the iHarbour, and promoting deep integration between universities, local communities, and enterprises.

The city will also guide manufacturing enterprises in digital empowerment, equipment upgrades, process enhancements, and management innovations to boost technological transformation.

Moreover, the city will accelerate the widespread application of digital technologies in manufacturing, driving industry-wide digital transformation to reduce costs, increase efficiency, expand production capacity, and enhance profitability for businesses.

In addition, building on Xi'an's foundation in internet services and software information, the focus will be on innovation empowerment, market expansion, industrial attraction, and talent recruitment to facilitate the convergence and development of artificial intelligence, industrial software, smart vehicles, and information technology.