ustam Minnikhanov proposed creating a Russian-Chinese platform for localising production

At the roundtable discussion “Chinese Business, Welcome to Tatarstan!” held at the 4th International Forum “SPROUTS: Russia and China – Mutually Beneficial Cooperation”, Rustam Minnikhanov, the Rais (Head) of the Republic of Tatarstan, proposed that Chinese partners establish a Russian-Chinese industrial platform in the Laishevo Industrial Park (Innopolis Special Economic Zone). Chinese companies interested in localising production are invited to participate in the project.

“We are ready to participate in the construction of production facilities. We have created the conditions not only to launch but also to quickly scale the project, building localisation and cooperation chains. Tatarstan is open to Chinese business at all stages – from initial market entry to the deployment of high-tech production facilities and joint developments. We are ready to assist in finding sites, supporting investment projects, and interacting with institutions,” Rustam Minnikhanov said.

At a roundtable discussion, the Ministry of Digitalization of Public Administration, Information Technologies, and Communications of the Republic of Tatarstan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Shenzhen Artificial Intelligence Industry Association. Today, Chinese development companies are accelerating their globalisation and seeking international cooperation.

“Tatarstan is precisely the place that attracts our attention. The Republic is a pioneer of Russia’s digital economy. Kazan boasts world-class educational and research centres such as Innopolis University. It has a vibrant innovation ecosystem and a favorable business climate. For Chinese companies, Tatarstan is not only a gateway to the Russian market but also an important hub,” said Zhang Zhehao, Deputy Secretary General for International Relations of the Shenzhen Artificial Intelligence Industry Association.

The Association is ready to act as a bridge and facilitate cooperation in three areas. First, it organises company delegations for study tours and meetings in Tatarstan. Second, it supports joint projects in industrial AI and smart cities. Third, it creates mechanisms for regular communication and the exchange of industry information.

Kang Xiaofeng, CEO of China Eastern Airlines, Moscow Office, spoke at the event. He reported that as of July 31, 583 Kazan-Shanghai flights had been operated, carrying over 129,000 passengers.

“As the largest Chinese carrier providing air service between China and Russia, we have formed a route network with hubs in Shanghai and Beijing. These are connected to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Kazan, with 43 scheduled flights weekly. Under current conditions, we are seeing a steady recovery in demand for business, tourism, and educational travel between China and Russia. Extensive opportunities are also opening up in the areas of Eurasian transit and cargo air transportation. Our company will continue to optimise our route network and deepen the localisation of services. We are expanding intermodal transportation and promoting the coordinated development of passenger and freight transport. We look forward to collaborating with our partners,” noted Kang Xiaofeng.

Taliya Minullina, Chief Executive of the Tatarstan Investment Development Agency, announced the Republic’s wishes for new flights. She proposed expanding direct air service and connecting Kazan with Beijing, Chengdu, and Xi'an.

“Flights directly increase both tourism and trade turnover, strengthen business ties, and completely transform the quality of trade and economic relations. Therefore, we ask for your suggestions on the routes outlined,” Taliya Minullina said.

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The International Forum “SPROUTS: Russia and China – Mutually Beneficial Cooperation” will be held in Kazan on 16-19 August.

The business programme includes such areas as interstate dialogue, creative economy, medicine, industry, education, business and entrepreneurship, business associations, finance and investment, culture, media, law, transport, agriculture, tourism, and construction.

The SPROUTS Business Forum confirmed its high status by receiving the EFEA Awards and becoming a laureate and finalist of the prestigious International Russian Event Awards.

ANO “Directorate of International Programmes” acts as an operator for the preparation and holding of the SPROUTS Forum.

Official of the SPROUTS Forum.