Growing projects from the ground up

Zhuhai Aviation Industrial Park, a business incubator for startups, is rolling out 22 infrastructure projects with a total investment of 1.91 billion yuan ($287 million), in a response to the city's call for high-tech development.

Other than upgrades to office areas and utilities services, the projects include a quality inspection center for batteries used in electric vehicles, a platform for biochemical companies and facilities in the business center of Jinwan district, where the park is located. Three of the projects will launch this year.

"With the upcoming Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development plan eyeing broader economic progress, Zhuhai, as a port city linking Hong Kong and Macao, is set to develop its strengths," said Zhai Xiaoqiang, director with the park's administrative committee.

"Our district (Jinwan) has been investing in the aerospace and aviation industry for years," he said. "The park will offer better business development for companies and startups, such as offering them free leasing."

The efforts are paying off. The park recorded 42.53 billion yuan of total industrial output last year, up 12.7 percent year-on-year, while the industry achieved an added value of 11.51 billion yuan, up 12 percent year-on-year.

China's AG600 amphibious aircraft, the largest of its kind in the world, was assembled in the park by China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co Ltd. The aircraft, codenamed Kunlong, made its maiden flight last December and is set for its first flight via water this year. The AG600 has received 17 orders so far and its production is expected to help fuel the country's drive to be a global leader in aviation.

The rapid development of the aerospace industry will offer opportunities in other areas of high-end manufacturing, amid the huge demand for parts and devices for aircraft and drones, Zhai said.

"We are happy to see more technological innovation being adapted to other areas like agriculture and education," Zhai said.

Zhuhai Yuren Agricultural Aviation, for example, produces unmanned aerial vehicles that are used to fertilize crops. The vehicles can carry up to 20 kilograms of fertilizer each and travel for 20 minutes on a 30-minute power charge.

"The rapid development of device manufacturing and aerospace technology in the park gives us an edge in sharing information and reducing transportation costs," said Liang Hengdong, the company's vice-president.