In recent years, Huzhou in Zhejiang province has carried out a series of initiatives to encourage and support enterprises in terms of innovation.

In 2025, R&D expenses for Huzhou's industrial enterprises above designated size — those with annual main business revenue of 20 million yuan ($2.84 million) or more — increased by 4.8 percent year-on-year, with new product output growing by 5.7 percent.

At Huzhou Columbus Logistics Technology in Huzhou, the latest fifth-generation pallet storage robots are undergoing final performance tests.

These robots, only 126 millimeters thick, can carry up to 1.5 metric tons, significantly increasing warehouse space utilization while reducing energy consumption by over 70 percent compared to traditional forklifts, according to Hu Gonglou, deputy general manager of the company.

These features have led to strong domestic demand and successful exports to Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, with orders booked until May next year.

A researcher conducts tests. [Photo/Tide News]

Huzhou Yongxing Special Stainless Steel has pioneered continuous casting in heat-resistant steel, achieving import substitution in purity control and special oil-well pipe materials.

According to Cao Jizhi, head of the sales department at Huzhou Yongxing Special Stainless Steel, the company's high-temperature valve steel alone is expected to generate over 300 million yuan this year, marking a year-on-year increase of 30 percent.