Ningbo ranks fifth in China-CEEC innovation index

Ningbo has ranked fifth among major Chinese cities for innovation cooperation with Central and Eastern European countries for the second year in a row.

The China (Cities)-CEEC Open Innovation Cooperation Index (2026), released in Ningbo on Sept 9, assesses 27 Chinese cities on their innovation links with CEE countries. Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen took the top three spots, followed by Guangzhou and Ningbo.

The index looks at three main areas: international exchanges, local innovation capacity, and the results of cross-border cooperation.

Ningbo ranked fourth, seventh, and sixth in the three categories, respectively, with its innovation capacity improving notably from the previous edition, reflecting progress in attracting talent, building international links, and developing innovation platforms.

The index has been published since 2023 and is compiled by the National Center for Science and Technology Evaluation and the China-CEEC Innovation Cooperation Research Center.

Ningbo has developed extensive ties with CEE countries in recent years, with cooperation spanning research, technology, and industry. The city is also home to the China-CEEC Innovation Cooperation Research Center, which serves as a platform connecting universities, research institutions, and businesses from both sides.