Shenzhen's Qianhai has unveiled a landmark policy aimed at establishing the zone as a leading global hub for research and development. The "Several Measures of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone to Support R&D Centers (Trial)," introduced on September 22, marks the first district-level R&D-specific support scheme in Shenzhen.

Under the new policy, eligible R&D centers can receive up to two million yuan in research reserve funds, while global R&D centers established by multinational corporations may qualify for additional support of up to six million yuan. Funding will be distributed over three years in allocations of 40%, 30%, and 30%.

The measures are designed to meet the core development needs of R&D centers, offering a package of financial support, space incentives, and service guarantees. Beyond setup subsidies, R&D centers may also obtain support covering 20% of eligible expenses—including direct R&D costs, depreciation, and intangible asset amortization—capped at three million yuan annually.

Rental concessions are equally attractive. Global R&D centers of multinational companies can benefit from two years of rent-free office space followed by a 70% discount in the third year. Other corporate R&D centers are eligible for one year rent-free and a 50% discount in the second year, with space allocated at 20 square meters per employee.

Tax incentives form a key part of the package. High-end and in-demand overseas talent will receive subsidies for the portion of their individual income tax exceeding 15%, with such subsidies being tax-exempt. Hong Kong residents working in Qianhai will not be taxed beyond Hong Kong's tax rate. Qualified R&D centers will also enjoy a reduced corporate income tax rate of 15%.

The policy further encourages R&D centers to form innovation alliances with domestic and international universities, research institutes, and industry partners. It supports new operational models such as "Qianhai registration with global operations," helping R&D centers focused on high-tech exports expand internationally through platforms like the "Shenzhen-Qianhai Global Services e-Station." Companies will also benefit from streamlined cross-border flows of capital, talent, and data, along with prioritized intellectual property reviews and guidance on overseas legal disputes.

Qianhai-based Hong Kong-invested enterprises may opt for Hong Kong law to govern contracts and choose Hong Kong as the seat of arbitration for civil and commercial disputes.

To qualify as a "Corporate R&D Center" or "Global R&D Center of a Multinational Enterprise," entities must be substantially engaged in R&D activities within Qianhai, with cumulative R&D investment in Shenzhen no less than two million U.S. dollars (or 15 million yuan) and at least 20 full-time R&D staff members. Higher thresholds apply for the global R&D center designation.

The policy has drawn strong interest from the innovation sector. Li Xiao, Deputy Director of the Scientific and Technological Innovation Department at China Coal Shenzhen Research Institute—which focuses on new materials, biomanufacturing, and digital energy—expressed enthusiasm: "We are truly encouraged. Supports such as matching funds for key technology projects align well with the needs of growing R&D entities."

Applications for the 2025 funding cycle are now open through Qianhai's integrated enterprise service platform. After online submission and review, successful applicants will receive funds following a five-working-day publicity period.