NPC deputy cites supportive business environment for private enterprise confidence in Tianjin

The continuous improvement of Tianjin's business environment has bolstered the confidence of private enterprises, driving innovation and deeper integration between industry and academia, according to a national lawmaker and veteran entrepreneur.

"As a private entrepreneur rooted in Tianjin's development for 25 years, I have personal experience with the continuous improvement of the city's business operating environment, including a fair competition market, boosted private investment, technological innovation, and a legal environment, which has strengthened our confidence," said Zhang Ronghua, chairman of the board of Rockcheck Group and a deputy to the National People's Congress, during an interview at the ongoing two sessions.

The supportive environment has translated into tangible market performance. Official data from the China Securities Regulatory Commission shows that Tianjin raised more than $45 billion in financing through the multi-level capital market last year, and the total market value of the 71 domestic listed companies increased by 15 percent year-on-year.

"The government supports private companies in developing technological innovation and promoting the transformation of more campus technological achievements into practice," Zhang said, adding that innovation is at the heart of this growth.

According to data released by the Tianjin Bureau of Statistics, the technology and research fees of the companies in the city have increased for consecutive years.

This push for innovation is coupled with a concerted effort to cultivate talent. Collaboration between enterprises and universities has deepened. One initiative is the Tianjin Consortium for Cultivating Outstanding Engineers, launched in November.

The consortium brings together leading institutions like Nankai University and Tianjin University with major corporations such as Lenovo and Tianjin Rail Transit Group to co-develop skilled professionals aligned with industry needs.

Looking ahead, Zhang emphasized the symbiotic relationship between private enterprises and regional development. "We will contribute with greater internal drive and more substantial actions to the thriving development of the private sector in Tianjin," Zhang said.

Lai Feiyuemin contributed to this story.