The momentum is unfolding at a historic moment. Over the past 45 years, the SEZ has grown from a GDP of just 270 million yuan in 1980 to 3.68 trillion yuan in 2024, an increase of more than 10,000-fold.

As Shenzhen marks the 45th anniversary of its special economic zone and the fifth year of its comprehensive reform pilot, the city is embarking on a new journey.

In June, a set of guidelines released by the central authorities highlighted a new batch of measures for the SEZ to pioneer the development of a modernized, globally oriented and innovation-driven city.

The guidelines call for launching a new wave of reform measures, rolling out fresh innovation trials and deepening opening-up initiatives, in an effort to break institutional barriers in education, science and talent development; strengthen the integration of innovation, industry, capital and talent chains; and explore new cooperation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

At a news conference themed around the guidelines, Li Chunlin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, highlighted Shenzhen's unique role as a pioneer of China's reform and opening-up.

With its advantages in leading development, abundant reform scenarios and favorable conditions for breakthroughs, Shenzhen SEZ has launched a series of exploratory measures in institutional opening-up, scientific innovation, talent development and governance models, Li said.

"These reform initiatives carry distinct originality and pioneering value, and their outcomes will play an important role in setting an example nationwide."