China’s Technology Sector Takes On Silicon Valley
Nanjing, which was once China’s capital, is remaking itself as a tech hub.
Photographer: Fan Shi San for Bloomberg BusinessweekAbout 300 kilometers (186 miles) up the Yangtze River from Shanghai, the city of Nanjing is developing a research park to foster China’s next generation of technology giants. The zone stretches 216 square kilometers along the city’s north side, housing dozens of high-profile companies as well as a multitude of startups. Across the river is a newer park where roads, sewers, and electrical grids stand ready for even more tech tenants to move in.
Nanjing is on the front line of the government’s effort to compete with Silicon Valley, and the city is playing a brash role in the clash among global trading superpowers. One sunny June morning, a crowd gathers in Building B of the Nanjing park to celebrate the arrival of a startup. “Please put your hands on the screen to officially ignite the opening of our business,” the emcee says to government officials and executives invited onstage. “Three, two, one, ignite!” Simulated lightning shoots up 5 meters from each person’s palm, converging in a phantasmagoria. Music blares.