The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology recently announced the 2023 list of industrial clusters of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Hunan has five industrial clusters on the list, involving Shaodong lighter, Shuangfeng agricultural machinery, Liling ceramics, Liuyang high-end chemical raw medicine, and Miluo nonferrous metals comprehensive recycling. Therefore, Hunan ranked seventh nationwide in terms of the number of newly added clusters.

The industrial clusters of Xinhua electronic ceramics, Yongxing precious metals, and Yiyang Heshan District aluminum electrolytic capacitor were selected in the 2022 list. As of now, Hunan has nurtured eight national SME industrial clusters.

The evaluation for national SME industrial clusters considered various aspects such as leading industries, innovation capabilities, digital upgrading, green transformation, and open collaboration. A total of 100 industrial clusters were selected nationwide. The five selected industrial clusters from Hunan outperformed other candidates and demonstrated distinct features and strong competitiveness.

These industrial clusters have complete industrial systems and take the lead in terms of scale and sales volume. For example, the Shaodong Lighter Industrial Cluster covers the entire process from hardware manufacturing to plastic products, paper packaging, and precision molds, with an annual output of 15 billion lighters, making it a global leader in terms of production value and market share. The Liling Ceramic Industrial Cluster has the most complete industrial system in China. The Shuangfeng Agricultural Machinery Industrial Cluster boasts a complete industrial chain integrating agricultural machinery, component manufacturing, and operational services.

These industrial clusters have advanced technologies and high industrial agglomeration. The Liuyang High-End Chemical Raw Medicine Industrial Cluster has 163 companies producing 80% of the national Class I new drugs in Hunan, making it a leader in domestic market share for pharmaceutical excipients. The Miluo Nonferrous Metals Comprehensive Recycling Industrial Cluster is a front runner in China to develop a "digital" green and low-carbon recycling industrial base for renewable resources.

The evaluation of national SME industrial clusters is based on dynamic management. The validity period for the application and recognition of an industrial cluster is three years. After expiration, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will organize a review for target fulfillment assessment. Those who pass the review will have their validity period extended by three years.

This article is from the Hunan Provincial Government www.enghunan.gov.cn.

Translator: Xiao Juan

Chinese source: hunan.gov.cn