Shanghai has recently unveiled an action plan aimed at creating an international jewelry fashion functional zone in the heart of the city's downtown Huangpu district. Leveraging the city's abundant resources and well-established industrial chain of gold and jewelry, the initiative seeks to solidify Shanghai's position as a global fashion hub.

The comprehensive action plan lays out a roadmap with 10 strategic measures designed to propel the development of the functional zone, focusing on areas such as gold and jewelry design, customization, bonded exhibition and trading, innovative development, and professional services. These measures are slated to remain in effect until March 31, 2030, signaling a long-term commitment to nurturing the growth of the industry.

One of the key objectives outlined in the plan is to enhance the trading function for high-end jewelry through bonded exhibition and trading platforms, while also establishing avenues for second-hand gold and jewelry trading. Furthermore, the plan encourages active participation from industry stakeholders in setting international and national standards to drive quality and innovation within the sector.

In a bid to foster innovation in gold and jewelry design, Shanghai will extend support for the establishment of certified foreign-funded design and research centers, as well as innovative design hubs and industrial design facilities within the designated zone. The city also aims to attract senior designers and skilled craftsmen to establish their own studios and workshops, fostering a culture of creativity and excellence.

To stimulate consumption and incentivize growth, the plan includes provisions for rewarding enterprises that establish flagship stores, pop-up shops, and counters with one-time incentives.

Shanghai welcomes both domestic and international enterprises to set up headquarters in the zone, offering financial support to facilitate their operations.

Additionally, the plan emphasizes the importance of debut economy, encouraging industry players to showcase their latest creations through shows, exhibitions, and product launches within the functional zone.

Recognizing the synergies between the jewelry industry and local cultural assets, Shanghai plans to integrate the sector with cultural intellectual properties such as the Shanghai Fashion Week and the Shanghai Tourism Festival. This collaboration aims to create a range of Shanghai-exclusive and co-branded cultural products that showcase the city's unique heritage and creativity.

Moreover, the action plan underscores the importance of collaboration between gold and jewelry firms, design schools, and research centers to drive innovation and commercialize research outcomes.

The city also calls for the enhancement of professional services by upgrading testing and inspection centers to meet international standards and introducing supporting services such as auctions, packaging, and logistics tailored to the needs of the industry.

Gu Yingjie contributed to this story.