The Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone has positioned itself at the forefront of technological revolution and industrial transformation. The zone focuses on fostering original innovation, accelerating the commercialization of scientific breakthroughs, and strategically investing in emerging fields and future-oriented industries. Through high-level platforms that empower industrial growth, the zone has developed an ecosystem tailored to regional strengths, integrating science, technology, innovation, and industry.

The service center for sci-tech innovation in the Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone. [Photo/WeChat ID: hefeigaoxinfabu]

The CAS Center for Excellence in Quantum Information and Quantum Physics, the world's largest quantum technology research institution, has become a national powerhouse driving the innovation and development of quantum technology. The zone was tasked with building China's first sci-tech park for quantum information future industry, with several major projects under construction to support the growing industry.

The CAS Center for Excellence in Quantum Information and Quantum Physics in the Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone. [Photo/WeChat ID: hefeigaoxinfabu]

Over the past 15 years, the zone has advanced significantly in quantum communication, quantum computing, and quantum precision measurement, leveraging high-level platforms such as the University of Science and Technology of China and the CAS Center for Excellence in Quantum Information and Quantum Physics. Through collaboration between industry, academia, and research institutions, the zone has made breakthroughs in quantum technology and now competes with, and in some areas surpasses, global leaders in the field.

Another pillar of the zone's innovation is the China Speech Valley, an emerging hub for artificial intelligence. More than 2,000 software and hardware products have been developed in the area, and over 100 first-of-their-kind major equipment and software have been launched. Products such as smart offices and smart healthcare have captured a 70% domestic market share.

The China Speech Valley in the Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone. [Photo/WeChat ID: hefeigaoxinfabu]

As a national industrial base for intelligent voice and AI, the China Speech Valley houses more than 100 AI innovation platforms, serving as key drivers for technological innovation and industrial development.

The iFlytek in the Hefei National High-Tech Industry Development Zone. [Photo/WeChat ID: hefeigaoxinfabu]

In October 2024, Anhui province launched a three-year action plan and companion policies to foster AI development. To follow suit, the zone introduced its own set of initiatives and policies aimed at establishing a globally influential AI park. 

The zone is now taking a leadership role in the next generation of AI research, backed by top-tier institutions including the Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center and the National Engineering Laboratory for Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology and Application , as well as leading enterprises such as iFlytek.