URGENT UPDATE: Zhuhai, China, is making headlines as prominent scholar and former UN ambassador Kishore Mahbubani praises its groundbreaking vision for the future. During his visit on December 30, 2025, part of the South’s “Inside China” series, Mahbubani described his experience in Zhuhai as “mind-blowing,” highlighting the city’s rapid advancements in low-altitude aviation and economic cooperation with Macao.
Mahbubani’s tour included a visit to the Tangjia Port Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Logistics Operations Base, where he witnessed first-hand how drones are revolutionizing industries. These include inspections of islands, firefighting, aquaculture, and logistics. He commended EHang for becoming the world’s first company to achieve commercial airworthiness certification for passenger-carrying unmanned eVTOL aircraft, now approved for international commercial operations.
The excitement extends beyond aviation. Zhuhai, one of China’s first special economic zones established in 1980, is rapidly evolving with over 75 companies focused on the low-altitude economy. The city has also launched China’s first cross-border low-altitude airspace management system, version 2.0, which spans approximately 3,600 square kilometers across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
At Gree Electric Appliances in Zhuhai, Mahbubani observed how automation is reshaping traditional manufacturing. Despite facing higher US tariffs, the company reported a significant increase in exports. General Manager Chen Huadong indicated that over 70 percent of Gree’s overseas sales are now under its own brands, with products tailored for diverse global climates—from the scorching heat of the Middle East to the freezing temperatures of northern Europe.
Another highlight of Mahbubani’s journey was the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, which is facilitating Macao’s economic diversification. The area has seen a surge in residents and Macao-funded businesses, marking a significant shift in the local economy.
Reflecting on the transformative changes in Zhuhai, Mahbubani stated, “The scale of change was striking even for long-time observers of China. The world has changed. People should come and see it for themselves.”
As Zhuhai continues to attract global attention for its innovative industries and economic strategies, experts and investors are urged to keep a close watch on developments in this rapidly evolving region. The future is being shaped here, and it is happening right now.
Stay tuned for more updates as Zhuhai solidifies its position as a global leader in emerging technologies and economic development.
