“Four Chains Integration” Drives the Integration of the Yangtze River Delta Region

The integration of the innovation chain, industrial chain, capital chain, and talent chain is a critical measure for building a new development pattern and a modern industrial system. The Yangtze River Delta, one of China's most dynamic regions, has long been a focal point for innovation and economic development. Recently, a proposal submitted by four national committee members has sparked renewed attention on how to better integrate these four chains to enhance regional cooperation and innovation in the Yangtze River Delta.

Proposal for “Four Chains Integration”

During the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), four members, including Jiang Pengju, Vice Mayor of Changzhou City and Chair of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee of the China Democratic League, jointly submitted a proposal titled “Promoting Innovative Synergy in the Yangtze River Delta through the Integration of the Four Chains.” The proposal was met with high regard from relevant government departments and has since led to concrete actions and policies to support the integration of the four chains.

Jiang Pengju, a returned overseas Chinese scientist and a long-term leader in science and technology innovation in Changzhou, has been deeply involved in research and policy development on this topic. His proposal was inspired by a close reading of President Xi Jinping's “On Scientific Self-Reliance and Strength,” as well as extensive field research and discussions in the G60 Science and Technology Innovation Corridor.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the Yangtze River Delta has made notable progress in integrating the four chains, challenges remain. For instance, the “siphon effect” of major cities has led to uneven distribution of resources, and the flow of talent and capital across regions is still hindered. Additionally, the resilience of the industrial chain is insufficient, and the innovation environment in the region needs further improvement.

To address these issues, Jiang Pengju proposed the establishment of a “Four-Hour Innovation Corridor” along key industrial chains, aiming to enhance innovation cycles and promote coordinated development within the region. He also emphasized the need for major cities to strengthen their roles in completing industrial chains and enhancing their influence over surrounding areas.

Policy Implementation and Future Directions

Following the proposal, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) took the lead in handling the matter, coordinating with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and other relevant departments. The NDRC has been actively supporting the integration of key industries among the Yangtze River Delta provinces, and a series of planning and policy documents have been issued to promote the coordinated development of innovation and industry across the region.

Looking ahead, the NDRC plans to further refine the region's industry competition and cooperation mechanisms, focusing on the construction of internationally competitive industrial clusters in strategic emerging industries. Additionally, it will support the establishment of future industrial clusters and continuously enhance the innovation capacity, industrial competitiveness, and development level of the Yangtze River Delta.

Jiang Pengju expressed confidence in the government's commitment to the integration of the Yangtze River Delta and pledged to continue contributing his expertise and efforts for the region's high-quality development.

Conclusion

The “Four Chains Integration” initiative represents a strategic move toward fostering innovation, economic synergy, and sustainable development in the Yangtze River Delta region. With continued government support and the efforts of dedicated individuals like Jiang Pengju, the region is poised to achieve new heights in its development journey.