The innovation landscape of western China is undergoing unprecedented transformation as the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle orchestrates a symphony of technological collaboration. A recent report from Renmin University's research team, "Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle Synergistic Development Index Report (2025)" , vividly captures this dynamic progress.
Between 2018 and 2024, the region demonstrated significant advancement across six key dimensions: macroeconomics, collaborative innovation, infrastructure connectivity, trade and finance, urban-rural integration, and industrial development. The most remarkable growth occurred in synergistic innovation , fueled by deepening cooperation in technology corridor construction and partnerships between universities, research institutions, and enterprises. This collaboration has accelerated the flow of technical elements and the commercialization of innovative achievements.
Forging a New Innovation Architecture
To fully unleash the region's scientific potential, the report proposes establishing a "Golden Triangle of Science and Technology" connecting Chongqing, Chengdu, and Mianyang. This strategic framework aims to optimize the allocation of critical innovation resources—including talent, capital, and platforms—creating an ecosystem where Chengdu and Chongqing serve as dual hubs with coordinated participation from cities like Mianyang.
Such an approach would mitigate redundant competition among innovation resources while fostering complementary advantages, ultimately elevating the region's overall innovation capacity. The model represents a sophisticated evolution beyond traditional dual-city dynamics toward a more integrated regional innovation network.
National Strategic Implications
As this innovation triangle takes form, the Chengdu-Chongqing region is poised to become not merely an economic engine for western China, but a global force in advanced manufacturing and technological innovation. The development carries significance that extends beyond regional economic growth—it represents a critical component in China's national innovation strategy.
The successful implementation of this model could establish new paradigms for inter-city collaboration in emerging economies, demonstrating how geographically proximate innovation hubs can achieve synergistic growth through strategic resource allocation and institutional coordination.