On June 4-5, the China Innovation Tour for CEECs—China Innovation Tour for Serbia, was launched in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province. This marks the inaugural event of the China Innovation Tour for CEECs series. During the tour, the Serbian delegate will visit Ningbo, Suzhou, and Shanghai to engage in in-depth exchanges with local innovation resources and experience firsthand the dynamic innovation ecosystem of the Yangtze River Delta region.

Chen Shanfu, Deputy Director-General of Ningbo Science and Technology Bureau, stated that “This event provides Serbs with a clearer understanding of China’s market demand, policy advantages, and industrial potential, while also enabling Chinese enterprises to efficiently connect with cutting-edge technologies and unique resources from Central and Eastern Europe.” He expressed hope that the activity would serve as an innovation bridge between China and Serbia, setting a practical example for deepening sci-tech innovation cooperation between China and CEECs.

Natalija Milićević, representative of Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation of Serbia, highlighted that, “the China Innovation Tour for Serbia holds significant meaning for establishing high-level international cooperation platforms between the two countries, facilitating in-depth exchanges and practical cooperation in sci-tech innovation and industrial investment.” She expressed confidence that both sides would further strengthen cooperation to create a future of innovation and mutual benefit.

The event focused on biomedical industry, adopting an “exhibition, conference, research, and investment” innovation ecosystem model, characterized by “government facilitation, enterprise participation, and expert support”. Representative from Ningbo Investment Promotion Bureau presented the city’s investment landscape, policy environment, and industrial needs. Serbian companies showcased their products, business models, and development prospects in a dedicated roadshow session.

Wang Bo, the executive director of China-CEEC Innovation Cooperation Research Center, introduced that “the initiative is a key platform for deepening sci-tech innovation cooperation between China and CEECs. Jointly supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China and the scientific and technological departments of multiply CEECs, the program is hosted by China-CEEC Innovation Cooperation Research Center. It aims to foster high-level international cooperation, promote in-depth exchanges and collaborative innovation in key scientific and technological fields, and help enterprises of both sides achieve mutual benefit and win-win results in the global market.” In December 2024, the launching ceremony of China Innovation Tour for CEECs was held in Ningbo.