Shanghai's Xuhui a rising star in the global gaming industry

Shanghai's Xuhui district is rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for the gaming industry, as it prepares to host the 2025 China Game Industry Annual Conference from Dec 17 to 19. This event is set to attract professionals worldwide, further cementing Xuhui's reputation as a center for game innovation.

Home to over 70 leading game companies, including the renowned miHoYo, Xuhui's gaming sector generated over 70 billion yuan ($9.92 billion) in 2024, accounting for nearly half of Shanghai's total game revenue. The district's technological backbone is supported by more than 700 artificial intelligence model companies, enhancing its capacity for innovation.

Xuhui's industrial synergy is evident in its West Bund and Caohejing Development Zone, which house nearly 60 percent of Shanghai's game companies. Major players like Tencent and NetEase have established regional headquarters here, while miHoYo's global headquarters continues to expand its reach with popular titles like Genshin Impact. International companies such as Garena and Ubisoft have also set up studios in Xuhui, focusing on research, development, and global distribution.

The district is pioneering new industry standards with China's first government-operated game industry service center and five major incubators, including the Caohejing Light of Hope Game Cluster. National platforms like the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center provide critical technical support.

Xuhui's "NeoWorld", a 1.9-kilometer metaverse-themed block, integrates game R&D, distribution, and consumption, while cultural landmarks like the West Bund Art Center create immersive "game + culture" scenarios.

The district's success is attributed to a robust "service + support + guidance" system, offering lifecycle assistance to companies. Policies have been introduced to bolster the industry, including substantial funding and a comprehensive intellectual property protection system.

Looking ahead, Xuhui plans to establish three centers and one platform to drive innovation and integrate games with various cultural elements, ensuring its position as a leader in the global gaming industry.

The "NeoWorld", a metaverse-theme block located in Shanghai's Xuhui district. [Photo/Xuhui district government]

Leading Chinese video game developer and publisher miHoYo headquartered in Shanghai's Xuhui district. [Photo/Xuhui district government]