Shanghai looks to Zaragoza as a logistics, technological and tourism hub in southern Europe

The city of Zaragoza has sparked great interest in Shanghai as a logistics, technological and tourist hub in southern Europe. At a business forum organised by the Zhejiang Chamber of Commerce, more than 100 Chinese entrepreneurs have explored the investment opportunities offered by the Aragonese capital.

Under the title “Vision China Zhesang: dialogue with Zaragoza, Spain”, Mayor Natalia Chueca, accompanied by a delegation of Zaragoza companies, presented the city’s strategic strengths in key sectors such as logistics, renewable energy, technology and tourism.

During her speech, Natalia Chueca stressed Zaragoza’s position as a strategic point for the expansion of international companies. She highlighted the city’s privileged geographical location, its advanced infrastructure and its commitment to sustainability and innovation as determining factors for attracting investment.

In this regard, the mayor has expressed her wish that Zaragoza becomes China’s gateway to Europe and a springboard to Latin America, consolidating its relevance in the global economic arena.

BENEFITS FOR THE LOCAL ECONOMY

Chueca also highlighted the benefits that these collaborations can bring to the local economy, emphasizing the creation of jobs and the strengthening of Zaragoza’s business ecosystem. According to him, the integration of innovation, sustainability and economic development in the city’s strategy will allow Zaragoza’s companies to boost their growth and competitiveness in an increasingly demanding international market.

The forum also included the participation of prominent businessmen from Zaragoza, who presented their projects and shared the city’s competitive advantages. Pedro Machín, president of Clenar, highlighted Aragon’s leadership in renewable energies and its capacity to export clean energy, while Marcos Latorre, CEO of Hiberus Internacional, highlighted the dynamism of the local technological ecosystem and the combination of industrial tradition with innovation.

At the institutional level, the event was attended by the Consul General of Spain in Shanghai, Luis Antonio Calvo Castaño, who praised the work of the Mayor and the international projection of Zaragoza. According to him, the city has demonstrated its ability to position itself as a benchmark in sustainable mobility, tourism and economic development, competing with major European capitals. Accompanying the consul were the Minister of Economy and Commerce, María Simó Sevilla, and the director of Turespaña in Beijing, María Llineras.

During the more than three hours of the forum, Chinese businessmen have learned in detail about the competitive advantages of Zaragoza as a logistics and technological hub. They have also been able to explore the emblematic projects that are transforming the city and its commitment to sustainability. As a sign of gratitude and recognition, Mayor Natalia Chueca has presented a plaque of honour to the Zhejiang Chamber of Commerce, naming it “Friend of Zaragoza” for its collaboration in the organisation of the event.

TOURIST PRESENTATION

In parallel to the business forum, a tourism presentation was held for 20 prominent local tour operators. José Francisco García, manager of Tourism in Zaragoza, explained the city’s appeal as a top-level tourist destination in southern Europe.

He highlighted its historical, cultural and gastronomic wealth, with icons such as the Basilica del Pilar and the Aljafería, as well as new infrastructures designed to improve the visitor experience. He also highlighted the expansion of international air routes and the development of a Smart City ecosystem that facilitates a more accessible and sustainable experience for tourists.