An exchange event focusing on AI and robotics cooperation between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Yangtze River Delta region was held in Shanghai on August 12, showcasing Guangdong's thriving innovation ecosystem and inviting businesses to invest in the region's cutting-edge industries.
Co-organized by the government departments of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, the AI-and-robotics-focused forum facilitates multi-dimensional collaboration between the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Yangtze River Delta in projects, markets, applications, and capital. Over 200 representatives from leading enterprises, investment firms, R&D institutions, and business associations attended.
Amid a new wave of technological revolution, AI and robotics are transforming global industries at an unprecedented pace, as emphasized by the forum. Guangdong, a frontrunner in these fields, presented its robust industrial advantages and supportive policies to attract investment.
Guangdong: A Thriving AI & Robotics Hub
A wealth of data was released at the event.
In 2024, Guangdong's core AI industry exceeded 220 billion yuan (approx. $30.3 billion), marking a 25% year-on-year growth. The province is home to over 1,500 core AI companies, including tech giants like Huawei and Tencent, as well as leading firms such as Cloudwalk, Intellifusion, and PCI Technology. With 63 large-scale AI models and 128 mega data centers, Guangdong is solidifying its position as a national AI powerhouse.
In robotics, Guangdong has emerged as a top industrial cluster, with key hubs in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, and Dongguan. In 2024, the province accounted for 44% of China's industrial robot production, ranking first for five consecutive years. Its intelligent robotics sector surpassed 80 billion yuan ($11 billion) in revenue, establishing a complete humanoid robot supply chain—from AI "brains" to sensory "limbs." Core components like servo motors, controllers, and vision systems are also predominantly manufactured in Guangdong.
Strong Policy Support & Incentives Drive Growth
To accelerate growth, Guangdong has rolled out 12 new measures to boost AI and robotics innovation earlier this year, including millions in subsidies for manufacturing innovation centers, national industry leaders, certified high-tech specialist SMEs, AI model R&D, and open-source projects in the province.
Additionally, Guangdong offers up to 35% loan interest subsidies for manufacturing and high-tech enterprises, along with a "15% corporate income tax + 15% individual income tax cap" policy in Hengqin, Qianhai, Nansha, and Hetao regions, making them highly competitive investment destinations.
"We warmly invite enterprises to seize the opportunities in Guangdong and the GBA—to invest, innovate, and realize their dreams," said a representative from the Guangdong Department of Commerce at the forum.
The event also featured investment promotions by Guangzhou and Shenzhen City in Guangdong, company live pitches, and site visits to leading AI enterprises. GBA delegates engaged in in-depth discussions with firms exploring expansion into the region.
With its dynamic ecosystem, strong policy backing, and world-class industry chains, Guangdong is poised to remain a global leader in AI and robotics—and an ideal destination for forward-looking investors, concluded the forum.
Reporter | Huang Xinyi
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Hu Nan, James, Shen He
