The Ministry of Commerce of China unveiled the sixth group of best practice cases for free trade zones' institutional innovation on Sept 15, with Lin-gang Special Area in Shanghai contributing two innovative models.

Case 1: Take the lead in building a safe and convenient system for cross-border data flows

Lin-gang Special Area has established a categorized management framework for cross-border data transfers, combining negative lists with operational guidelines for key sectors like finance, international shipping, and commerce. Collaborating with the Shanghai Cyberspace Administration, authorities issued sector-specific negative lists and implementation manuals for reinsurance, shipping, and biopharmaceuticals. To date, 10 companies have conducted data exports exceeding 165GB under this regulated yet flexible system, accelerating Shanghai's development into a global trade hub.

The International Data Port in Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat ID: shlgguanweihui]

Case 2: A coordinated supervision model

In partnership with the China (Anhui) Pilot Free Trade Zone and multiple customs authorities within the Yangtze River Delta region, Shanghai has launched a unified port supervision mechanism under the national customs clearance integration system.

This model treats Yangshan Port and inland ports like Wuhu Port in Anhui province as a single regulatory entity, leveraging waterway transport efficiency. For instance, the Yangshan-Wuhu route now takes 48 hours on average, nearly halving previous transit times. Logistics costs dropped by 400 yuan ($56.27) per export container and 200 yuan per import container, delivering tangible benefits to businesses.

Yangshan Port in Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat ID: shlgguanweihui]

Since its establishment six years ago, Lin-gang Special Area has generated 166 groundbreaking innovations, including 79 national firsts, solidifying its role as a testing ground for China's reforms.