Beijing and Shanghai will be turned into global centers of innovation in science and technology, according to a guideline released by the country's top economic planner. This goal echoes China’s plan for scientific innovation during the 13th Five-Year Plan period, which also mentions the two cities as centers for innovation.

On Sept. 1, the State Council approved Beijing's plan to build a science and technology innovation center.

"Relying on abundant talents and scientific advantages, Beijing will best serve the implementation of national strategies," said Sui Zhenjiang, deputy mayor of Beijing.

According to Sui, Beijing will build three big sci-tech communities. Zhongguancun Science City will focus on high-end national innovation; Huairou Science City will build large scientific clusters and interdisciplinary research platforms; Future Science City will become a gathering place for technological innovation among big conglomerates, China Daily reported.

In May 2015, Shanghai unveiled a plan to accelerate innovation and build the city into a global innovation center by 2020. The State Council approved Shanghai’s plan in April 2016. The plan's measures include a pledge to further simplify administrative management by cutting red tape, as well as a promise to increase funds needed to meet specific objectives, acording to a report in Shanghai Daily.

Zhou Bo, vice mayor of Shanghai, said that the city has already begun implementing the plan.