Chongqing - When you ask Chongqing locals about Banan District, their minds often wander to its rich cultural tourism, featuring ancient towns, hot springs, courtyards, and beautiful countryside. This district beautifully combines traditional charm with contemporary innovation. 

He Yousheng, Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Chongqing Banan District Committee, said at a press conference on July 3 that the district drives Chongqing's modernization by integrating science, technology, and industry, fostering ties with ASEAN, and promoting urban-rural integration.

Chongqing International Biological Park. (Photo/Banan District)

He highlighted that Banan is accelerating the transformation of scientific and technological achievements into production. Specifically, 279 innovations have transitioned from Chongqing University of Technology laboratories to active production lines.

To boost technological innovation, the district has increased investment in science and technology and established a robust innovation service system. This includes introducing 145 research institutions and fostering 5,899 technology-oriented enterprises. Yang Yaping, Deputy Mayor of Banan District People’s Government, explained that support for these enterprises focuses on gradual cultivation, intensive research, and comprehensive services.

To modernize its industrial system, the district has established the Chongqing International Biological Park in the Yangtze River Basin and developed a leading low-altitude economic zone. The park is advancing high-tech levels and commercializing new drugs to meet market and public demands. Production capacities include over 30 million units of insulin, more than 40 million doses of cervical cancer vaccines, and 24,000 liters of antibody drugs annually.

Chongqing Highway Logistics Base. (Photo/Banan District)

The district has expanded its cross-border highway bus services to 19 countries, increasing from once a week to twenty times daily, allowing ASEAN specialties to reach Chongqing. Zhou Mi, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Chongqing Banan District Committee, highlighted that this enhances ASEAN connectivity through broadening routes, expanding connections, proactive engagement, and comprehensive services.

Banan offers comprehensive services by establishing 20 platforms, including the Chongqing RCEP Investment and Trade Service Center, and has attracted 45 foreign trade enterprises to the Chongqing Highway Logistics Base. This has resulted in a cargo throughput of 28.37 million tons, logistics operations of 8.36 million tons, and a market transaction volume of 115.7 billion yuan (USD 15.91 billion).