Shenzhen has released a new work plan to further improve its business environment by leveraging opportunities from APEC on Monday, with a focus on boosting global connectivity and long-term competitiveness.

The plan outlines a set of measures across areas such as cross-border mobility, international trade and logistics, capital flows, data movement, and overall business services, aiming to better respond to the needs of Hong Kong, Macao, and international stakeholders.

A top priority is to make it easier for foreign nationals to live and work in Shenzhen. The city will improve services in areas such as language support, visas, accommodation, and payments, with the goal of creating a more welcoming and convenient environment for international residents.

In healthcare, hospitals will introduce bilingual signage and AI-powered translation tools to address language barriers, while more institutions will be encouraged to meet international accreditation standards and connect with global insurance systems.

Visa facilitation is another key focus. Foreign executives setting up businesses in designated areas such as Qianhai will be eligible for multi-year visas or residence permits, with benefits extended to their families. Additional measures will streamline entry procedures for business travelers and provide emergency visa services at ports of entry.

The plan also emphasizes improving trade efficiency through institutional innovation. Efforts will be made to simplify customs procedures, promote digitalized temporary import systems, and enable faster clearance for goods used in exhibitions and testing.

To further open up the economy, Shenzhen will expand access in sectors such as internet services, education, and culture, while ensuring fair treatment for foreign-invested enterprises in areas like licensing and factor access.

On the financial side, the city will enhance cross-border capital flows by expanding integrated fund pooling programs for multinational companies, allowing more efficient global allocation of funds and reducing exchange costs. It will also improve cross-border wealth management services to better meet the needs of residents in the Greater Bay Area.

Shenzhen will also take steps to facilitate compliant cross-border data flows, including exploring pilot programs and establishing clearer regulatory frameworks, while promoting cooperation in credit information sharing and financial innovation.

In addition, the plan calls for stronger legal cooperation with Hong Kong and Macao, improved intellectual property protection, and more efficient mechanisms for resolving cross-border commercial disputes.