Guangdong Province has achieved remarkable economic success, with its GDP reaching 14.16 trillion yuan in 2024, maintaining its status as the highest in China for 36 consecutive years. The province has also seen its import and export volume exceed 9 trillion yuan for the first time, underlining Guangdong's pivotal role as a crucial driver of the national economy.

The province is home to many major technology firms, including industry giants such as Huawei, Tencent, DJI, ZTE, and BYD. Located in southern China, Guangdong faces the South China Sea and is positioned next to the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao, which are part of the Greater Bay Area – a recurrently dynamic and economically open region made up of nine cities in Guangdong alongside Hong Kong and Macao.

Expressing the uniqueness of the Greater Bay Area, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang stated in November 2024 that it is the only region worldwide where both mechatronics technology and AI technology coexist, emphasizing its unparalleled significance in the global technology landscape.

Guangdong's emphasis on innovation is exemplified by its scores in innovation capability, having ranked first among Chinese provinces for eight consecutive years. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster also consistently ranks second in the Global Innovation Index, reflecting the area's strong commitment to developing advanced technological solutions.

Historically, Guangdong developed its manufacturing sector primarily for export purposes. In the 1980s, its growth relied on processing trade, particularly in light industries like textiles. However, factors such as rising domestic costs and the global financial crisis of 2008 shifted the region's focus towards innovation-driven industrial transformations.

The province's manufacturing landscape is now characterized by robust industrial chains and a vibrant innovation ecosystem. Officials from the region note the advantage entrepreneurs have in manufacturing, with ready access to components and materials that facilitate rapid product development. This dynamic environment has fostered a cycle of innovation, further propelling Guangdong's high-tech transformation.

Guangdong supports a thriving startup culture, with notable initiatives like XbotPark in Songshan Lake Science City, which provides funding, resources, and mentorship to tech entrepreneurs. This incubator, alongside institutions such as the Guangdong Intelligent Robotics Institute, nurtures businesses and supports the commercialization of technology.

Local government support plays a critical role in furthering the growth of innovation and startups in Guangdong. Officials have offered assistance in various forms, including locating testing facilities for emerging companies, further enhancing the province's attractiveness to new technological ventures.

In addition to attracting businesses, Guangdong is dedicated to fostering talent, as evidenced by the recent spring recruitment event that drew significant attention from graduates and job seekers. The province's innovative talent incentive program underscores its commitment to building a skilled workforce essential for sustained economic growth.

With ambitious plans set out for the development of industries such as quantum technology and 6G, as well as advancements in AI, Guangdong is positioning itself to become a global leader in the tech industry. The merger of industrial strength, innovative ecosystems, supportive policies, and talent cultivation is guiding Guangdong's transformation toward high-quality development.