China - August 21, 2024

Low-altitude economy taking off in China's tech hub Shenzhen

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Roasted young pigeon, is a delicacy not only famous among Shenzhen locals, but a must-try for any visitor.

For those who can't make it to a restaurant this summer, their taste buds can still be satisfied.

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Wang Fengrong,Manager, Nanyue Guangming Squab Hongqiao Park Branch:

"We choose drone delivery to send fresh Nanyue Guangming squab to the customer's hands. Drones can reduce the cost of intra-city delivery from 80 to 100 yuan to 20 to 30 yuan per order."

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Roasted squab is just one of many dishes on the drone delivery list.

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Du Shenyun, Manager, UAV Operation Center of Phoenix Wings:

"Our drones also deliver express packages, seafood, blood products, medical testing samples, gold jewelry and other items."

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Du says as of June, the company has opened more than 400 routes across the country, flown nearly one million flights, and transported over four million cargo items.

Shenzhen has been a pioneer in the development of what's known as the low-altitude economy, with last year's annual output reaching 90 billion yuan, or about 12.6 billion US dollars. More than 1,700 firms are involved in the industrial chain.

According to Shenzhen's transport and industrial departments, the city plans to green light 75 percent of its airspace below 120 meters for use by low-altitude flights.

Authorities want to see more than 1,000 low-altitude commercial routes opened by the end of 2025.

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Wu Haifeng, Director, Center for Sustainable Finance, Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen):

"The future low-altitude economy is worth trillions. With high performance and safety, low-altitude drones can greatly reduce journey time for commercial activities, bring new opportunities to rural revitalization by reaching remote villages, and reduce costs in infrastructure construction."

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Experts say the low altitude economy can also be promoted to other countries, creating potential for new cooperation, and benefiting the national economy.

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