经济新闻
上海出台十项举措，巩固其作为全球电竞中心的地位 2026-04-09
Shanghai has launched a comprehensive "10-measure" policy package aimed at accelerating the high-quality development of its gaming and esports sectors.
The initiative seeks to build a globally influential industry ecosystem, marking a decisive milestone in the city's ambition to become the world's leading "esports hub."
People flock to ChinaJoy, the Asia's biggest game fair held annually in Shanghai.Targeted support and global reach
To bolster international competitiveness, the policy outlines the creation of a full-chain service platform designed to assist domestic firms in expanding overseas. It further emphasizes leveraging gaming Intellectual Property (IP) to revitalize traditional culture and stimulate the "game+ economy" – using consumer-linked activities to drive growth in the tourism and commerce sectors.
Under the new plan, eligible games, events and organizations – including incubation bases and industrial zones – can apply for annual support funds of up to 5 million yuan (US$732,100) over the next five years. The application window opened yesterday.
While the "10-measure" package is more streamlined than previous iterations (such as the "50-measure" or "20-measure" plans), experts suggest it is more precise.
"The measures are more targeted and practical, signaling that Shanghai's esports development has entered a next-generation stage focused on 'elite' content and events," said Zhu Qinqin, Secretary General of the Shanghai Esports Association.
miHoYo-held Genshin FES carnival attracts massive tourist crowds to Shanghai during the recent New Year's holiday.A booming digital frontier
Shanghai's gaming sector continues to outperform the national average. In 2025, the city's online gaming revenue hit 170.7 billion yuan, a 9.57 percent year-on-year increase. Notably, overseas revenue surged 13.7 percent to reach 30.3 billion yuan. Shanghai has now ranked among the world's top three esports cities for five consecutive years, trailing only Seoul in 2025.
Industry leaders have voiced strong support for the roadmap.
Liu Wei, founder and CEO of miHoYo, noted that the measures provide vital "incentives and protection for original, high-quality content." The company's Genshin Impact IP has already demonstrated significant economic impact, with its "Genshin FES" carnival attracting massive tourist crowds to Shanghai during the recent New Year holiday.
Papergames, headquartered in Yangpu District, highlighted the policy's focus on building cultural bridge. Through collaborations with the Palace Museum, the firm has digitally recreated traditional Chinese attire, allowing young players to experience ancient craftsmanship within a modern medium.
Meanwhile, Century Huatong is aggressively pursuing an "AI+Game" strategy. The firm currently utilizes AI in 80 percent of its development workflow, boosting art production efficiency by over 60 percent. In 2026, it plans to host the second Digiloong Global AI Innovation Competition to further foster the local ecosystem.
Looking ahead, the definition of esports in the city is set to expand.
"In the future, the scope of eSports in Shanghai will go beyond traditional gaming to include diversifies devices like robotics and drone," added Zhu of the eSports association.
People gather in front of Sony PlayStation booth at ChinaJoy.The 10 measures
1. Industrial Hubs
Strengthening Xuhui, Yangpu and Jing'an as core zones for leading industrial parks and incubators.
2. Global Springboard
Providing specialized support for copyright, risk warning, and credit insurance to facilitate international expansion.
3. The "Shanghai Brand"
Integrating Chinese traditional culture into digital products to showcase the city's unique urban character.
4. Tech Empowerment
Incentivizing R&D in AI, big data, and cloud computing.
5. International Cooperation
Deepening ties between multinational gaming giants and local entities.
6. Ecosystem Optimization
Attracting specialized firms in design, music, and professional media to enhance the full supply chain.
7. "Games+" Initiative
Expanding the industry's "spillover effect" into healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing.
8. Financial Support
Launching the Shanghai Game Industry Investment Fund for small and micro-sized startups.
9. Talent Development
Supporting universities in establishing esports majors and providing 1,000+ internships annually.
10. Elite Capability
Accelerating the development of local IP while attracting A-class international tournaments.
Source: City News Service
