Harnessed opportunities led to high-quality growth for Changning

By seizing various opportunities, including the improved promotion of the Hongqiao international opening-up hub and Shanghai's building up of a scientific and technological innovation center, the city's Changning district has achieved high-quality development, a high economic growth rate, and created an attractive environment for business and living, according to official sources.

"Driven by major strategies, the district took a lead in its GDP, which grew 15.3 percent year-on-year in the first half," Zhang Wei, Party chief of Changning district, said during a news conference on Thursday.

Zhang said the six key industries prioritized by the district government include the digital economy, which has become the district's largest industry and its economic driver.

More than 6,100 enterprises engaged in the digital economy have contributed 54.9 percent of the district's total tax revenue.

In the meantime, the revenue of the software information industry surged 58.9 percent year-on-year in the first half of the year, ranking top among all districts of the city.

Silicon Alley Shanghai was created in the district, which has so far attracted more than 500 technological companies to its 1.48 square kilometer area, Zhang added.

Chen Jun, a senior director with QST Corp, said: "Settling in the Silicon Alley allows us to come closer to our clients, helping us better understand the market and develop better products."

Chen said the area's convenient transportation, historic buildings, and stylish business environment made it possible for young employees to enjoy their lives in between working time.

"From a start-up with merely a small office room to a company with its products and services reaching 18 countries and regions worldwide, our development cannot be achieved without Changning district's support toward enterprises and the great talent pool of the city," said Zhou Min, a director with Shanghai Westwell Technology.

During the past two years, Westwell has recruited more than 70 employees with a background of overseas education, Zhou said.

Additionally, 5,420 apartments are under development within the district, and the government-subsidized rental housing project will be available for people aged between 25 and 45, according to Zhang Ying, vice-general manager of Shanghai New Chang Ning Group.