Shaoxing kicks off its 2025 talent recruitment initiative in Beijing on March 22. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]

East China's Shaoxing launched its 2025 talent recruitment initiative, dubbed the "Talent Express", with a kickoff ceremony in Beijing on March 22.

In a video speech, Shi Huifang, Party secretary of Shaoxing, extended a warm welcome to talent worldwide. Shi highlighted the city's rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, noting its GDP growth has been in the top two in Zhejiang province for the last two years, while per capita disposable income for residents places it in the national top 10.

Shaoxing eagerly awaits talent from home and abroad to innovate and start businesses here, Shi said, pledging an open stance and supportive environment for newcomers.

Since its inception in 2018, the Talent Express has been a cornerstone of Shaoxing's recruitment strategy, running annually for eight years and forging lasting ties with top talent. In 2024 alone, the city welcomed 151,000 new college graduates, over 1,000 doctoral scholars from home and abroad, and 37,000 skilled workers.

This year's campaign will roll into 300 premier universities domestically and internationally, hosting over 300 matchmaking events.

Once known as the birthplace of literary giant Lu Xun (1881–1936), Shaoxing is now redefining itself. Traditional industries like textiles and chemicals are evolving, emerging fields like integrated circuits and modern medicine are surging, and future industries such as low-altitude aviation and artificial intelligence are poised for takeoff.