Merck unveils plans for innovation hub

German pharmaceutical giant Merck announced on Monday its plan for establishing its Guangdong Innovation Hub in Guangzhou, the provincial capital, which is scheduled to open in September next year.

The 700-square-meter hub, located on the International Biotech Island, will have a showroom to demonstrate the company's latest technologies, innovation projects and future research direction of its three business sectors — healthcare, life science and performance materials.

It will integrate the technologies and expertise of Merck and its partners, such as startups, academic institutions, business partners and local governments, to jointly develop innovative technologies and promote business growth in the strategic markets of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

"China is a major innovation hotspot and one of our most important growth markets. We are now creating a strong platform for Merck and our partners to drive innovation in southern China. At the same time, we are strengthening our footprint in this vibrant ecosystem of innovation," said Merck executive board member Kai Beckmann at a promotional event.

The announcement was made during a visit by a German delegation led by mayor of Frankfurt Peter Feldmann in Guangzhou, which marks the 30th anniversary of the sister city relationship between the cities.

A photo exhibition and a specially decorated tram car were launched in Guangzhou to commemorate the anniversary.