In the face of shifting global investment currents, Shanghai's Pudong New Area has once again emerged as a steadfast magnet for international capital. From January to May 2025, the district attracted more than US $3.14 billion in actualized foreign investment—a 32.3% year-on-year increase, according to official data from Xinhua.

For foreign companies evaluating long-term opportunities in China, the message is clear: Pudong is not just open for business—it's actively building the future.

Precision Policy, Real Results

The momentum didn't begin this year. As early as 2022, amid significant uncertainties in global supply chains, Pudong had already delivered US $4.25 billion in actual foreign investment in the first five months—thanks in part to its ability to combine targeted policy execution with investor-focused services. While many regions were struggling with disruptions, Pudong kept projects moving by embracing flexible digital channels such as video meetings, email, and one-on-one remote support, ensuring that investments stayed on track.

That foundational approach has now evolved into a more strategic framework aimed at advanced manufacturing, green technology, and innovation-driven sectors—with results to match.

Roche Leads the Next Chapter of Biopharma in China

Among the latest headline investments is Swiss pharmaceutical leader Roche, which began building a new 25,000-square-meter production base in Zhangjiang Science City, Pudong's flagship innovation district. The facility, slated for completion in 2029 and full operation by 2031, is designed to bolster Roche's local manufacturing and supply chain capacity in China.

“The implementation of this project marks a significant development in Roche's local production capacity in China and represents a major breakthrough in the local production of innovative drugs in this important market,” said Vivian Bian, CEO of Roche Pharma China.

The investment not only enhances Roche's footprint in Asia's largest healthcare market but also underscores how multinational firms are deepening their value chain integration in Pudong—from R&D to production to distribution.

Regional HQs on the Rise: Auto, MedTech, Biopharma in Focus

Pudong's appeal extends beyond manufacturing. In 2022, nine new multinational regional headquarters were set up in the district—accounting for over half of Shanghai's total new HQs that year. To date, 398 MNC headquarters and 258 foreign-funded R&D centerscall Pudong home.

Major players in key sectors have chosen Pudong to scale operations:

General Motors announced a US $100 million capital increase to establish a high-end imported vehicle business in the district, reinforcing its 25-year commitment to the China market.

Stryker, one of the world's largest medical technology firms, gained recognition for a new regional headquarters.

CCK, a global leader in automotive exhaust systems, is setting up a global R&D center.

Takeda, Asia's largest biopharmaceutical company, has designated Pudong as its new Asia R&D hub.

These projects reflect continued foreign confidence in Pudong's strategic location, governance efficiency, and deep industrial clusters.

What Global Professionals Should Note

For foreign banks, export credit insurers, investment promotion agencies, and international advisors, Pudong represents more than a growth story—it's a high-performance environment where capital, talent, and technology converge.

Financial institutions can tap into the district's capital-intensive industrial upgrades and rising demand for structured finance, leasing, and cross-border payments.

Professional service firms—including law, tax, and audit—are well-positioned to support increasingly complex regulatory and IP frameworks as more firms localize R&D and production.

Government agencies and trade representatives can view Pudong as a model of sustained investor engagement amid a rapidly evolving global trade landscape.

A Strategic Commitment to Openness

Looking ahead, Pudong is aligning with the goals set by Shanghai's 12th Party Congress: enhancing global influence, accelerating modernization, and shaping a more attractive international city profile. Anchored by these objectives, the district is expected to continue deepening its role as a launchpad for global enterprises seeking scalable, long-term access to China and broader Asia-Pacific markets.

For global investors, Pudong offers not just infrastructure or incentives—but a reliable, forward-looking partner for building the next generation of global business.