Pakistani Student’s Startup Dream Takes Flight in Shanghai
APP
Beijing: In the heart of Shanghai’s Lin-gang Special Area, 27-year-old Zhou Zihan, a Pakistani entrepreneur, is gearing up to launch his business. Benefiting from the region’s strategic location and business-friendly policies, Zhou sees Lin-gang as an ideal gateway to both domestic and international markets.
Currently pursuing a master’s degree in International Relations at East China Normal University, Zhou comes from a family with deep roots in Pakistan’s textile industry. “Since 2001, our family has collaborated with Chinese companies to supply textile machinery, digital printing machines, and related solutions to Pakistan’s textile sector,” he shared.
With ambitions to expand further, Zhou plans to establish a trading company in Shanghai to facilitate the exchange of Chinese products with Pakistani clients. “Lin-gang is home to high-tech enterprises, rich innovation resources, and comprehensive legal and financial services. These factors offer a solid foundation for my company’s global growth,” he explained.
Despite his aspirations, Zhou initially hesitated due to the complexities of starting a business in a foreign country, particularly concerning visa regulations. However, after consulting authorities, he learned that transitioning from a student visa to an entrepreneurship visa was possible, paving the way for his business venture.
A turning point came in November 2023 when Zhou attended the “Connecting the World, Embracing Lin-gang” event, which invites international students to explore the area’s opportunities.
During his visit, he attended policy briefings and engaged with government representatives specializing in entrepreneurship support. “Lin-gang not only offers a secure and convenient environment for foreign entrepreneurs but also enjoys strong backing from national and municipal governments. I was truly impressed,” Zhou remarked.
According to an official from the Lin-gang New Area Administrative Committee, various policies have been introduced to support international student entrepreneurship.
Initiatives such as the Lin-gang Overseas Students Entrepreneurship Park provide assistance with business registration, policy consultation, operational support, and financial and tax services. Foreign entrepreneurs can also benefit from a five-year residence permit, a fast-track pathway to permanent residency, and an expedited process for professional qualification exams.
Lin-gang has become a thriving hub for foreign entrepreneurs, with over 300 startups founded by international students. The Lin-gang Blue Bay Park and the Marine High-tech Industrial Base host nearly 100 enterprises, 75 percent of which operate in advanced industries such as biomedicine, artificial intelligence, and integrated circuits.
With its progressive policies, global connectivity, and innovation-driven ecosystem, Lin-gang is positioning itself as a top destination for international entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses globally.
