Shanghai Unveils 10 Measures to Cement Status as Global Esports Hub

Shanghai has launched a comprehensive "10-measure" policy package aimed at accelerating the high-quality development of its gaming and esports sectors.

The initiative seeks to build a globally influential industry ecosystem, marking a decisive milestone in the city's ambition to become the world's leading "esports hub."

Targeted support and global reach

To bolster international competitiveness, the policy outlines the creation of a full-chain service platform designed to assist domestic firms in expanding overseas. It further emphasizes leveraging gaming Intellectual Property (IP) to revitalize traditional culture and stimulate the "game+ economy" – using consumer-linked activities to drive growth in the tourism and commerce sectors.

Under the new plan, eligible games, events and organizations – including incubation bases and industrial zones – can apply for annual support funds of up to 5 million yuan (US$732,100) over the next five years. The application window opened yesterday.

While the "10-measure" package is more streamlined than previous iterations (such as the "50-measure" or "20-measure" plans), experts suggest it is more precise.

"The measures are more targeted and practical, signaling that Shanghai's esports development has entered a next-generation stage focused on 'elite' content and events," said Zhu Qinqin, Secretary General of the Shanghai Esports Association.

A booming digital frontier

Shanghai's gaming sector continues to outperform the national average. In 2025, the city's online gaming revenue hit 170.7 billion yuan, a 9.57 percent year-on-year increase. Notably, overseas revenue surged 13.7 percent to reach 30.3 billion yuan. Shanghai has now ranked among the world's top three esports cities for five consecutive years, trailing only Seoul in 2025.

Industry leaders have voiced strong support for the roadmap.

Liu Wei, founder and CEO of miHoYo, noted that the measures provide vital "incentives and protection for original, high-quality content." The company's Genshin Impact IP has already demonstrated significant economic impact, with its "Genshin FES" carnival attracting massive tourist crowds to Shanghai during the recent New Year holiday.

Papergames, headquartered in Yangpu District, highlighted the policy's focus on building cultural bridge. Through collaborations with the Palace Museum, the firm has digitally recreated traditional Chinese attire, allowing young players to experience ancient craftsmanship within a modern medium.

Meanwhile, Century Huatong is aggressively pursuing an "AI+Game" strategy. The firm currently utilizes AI in 80 percent of its development workflow, boosting art production efficiency by over 60 percent. In 2026, it plans to host the second Digiloong Global AI Innovation Competition to further foster the local ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the definition of esports in the city is set to expand.

"In the future, the scope of eSports in Shanghai will go beyond traditional gaming to include diversifies devices like robotics and drone," added Zhu of the eSports association.

The 10 measures

1. Industrial Hubs

Strengthening Xuhui, Yangpu and Jing'an as core zones for leading industrial parks and incubators.

2. Global Springboard

Providing specialized support for copyright, risk warning, and credit insurance to facilitate international expansion.

3. The "Shanghai Brand"

Integrating Chinese traditional culture into digital products to showcase the city's unique urban character.

4. Tech Empowerment

Incentivizing R&D in AI, big data, and cloud computing.

5. International Cooperation

Deepening ties between multinational gaming giants and local entities.

6. Ecosystem Optimization

Attracting specialized firms in design, music, and professional media to enhance the full supply chain.

7. "Games+" Initiative

Expanding the industry's "spillover effect" into healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing.

8. Financial Support

Launching the Shanghai Game Industry Investment Fund for small and micro-sized startups.

9. Talent Development

Supporting universities in establishing esports majors and providing 1,000+ internships annually.

10. Elite Capability

Accelerating the development of local IP while attracting A-class international tournaments.