2026 Greater Bay Area Science Forum Convenes in Guangzhou to Advance Regional Innovation

The 2026 Greater Bay Area (GBA) Science Forum officially commenced in Guangzhou, marking a significant milestone for regional collaboration in science and technology. The high-level event drew prominent leaders and scientists from across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, underscoring a collective commitment to fostering an integrated innovation ecosystem.

The opening ceremony featured remarks from several key dignitaries, including Huang Kunming, Secretary of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee, and Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee. Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai, Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun, Chinese Academy of Sciences President Hou Jianguo, and former CAS President Bai Chunli also addressed the attendees. The proceedings were moderated by Meng Fanli, Secretary of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee, reflecting the collaborative effort between the major urban hubs of the region.

The forum served as a platform for deeper institutional cooperation. A major highlight of the gathering was the push by the GBA National Technology Innovation Center to accelerate industry-academia-research partnerships. During the event, the center formalized its dedication to these goals by signing strategic cooperation agreements with 11 distinct organizations, aiming to translate theoretical research into practical industrial applications.

In addition to partnership announcements, the forum addressed the region’s growing role in global scientific research. Two major international “Big Science” programs were officially launched at the Nansha district in Guangzhou, signaling the region’s ambition to participate in world-class research initiatives that address complex scientific challenges.

During his address, Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai emphasized the necessity of proactive integration. He urged stakeholders to work hand-in-hand to build a robust, interconnected scientific innovation network that leverages the unique strengths of the three jurisdictions. This sentiment was echoed throughout the event, as speakers consistently pointed to the potential for the Greater Bay Area to evolve into a global hub for technological advancement.

By aligning policies and pooling resources across borders, the forum participants aim to solidify the GBA’s status as a powerhouse for innovation. The event highlighted that cross-regional cooperation is not merely an aspiration but an active strategy to enhance the economic and technological competitiveness of the entire area. As the forum continues, the focus remains on transforming these high-level discussions into tangible projects that will drive future growth and scientific breakthroughs across the Pearl River Delta and beyond.

Sources: 广州日报新花城

Aggregated summary. Original: 广州日报新花城