The skyline of Shenzhen is becoming a laboratory for the future of urban transport and logistics. On Thursday, the city hosted the opening of the 10th Drone World Congress, an event that underscores the city's position as the epicenter of the global drone industry.
The three-day congress has attracted 1,220 companies representing 17 countries and regions. With over 10,000 drones and various low-altitude economy products on display, the event showcases the sheer scale of innovation occurring in the south of the Chinese mainland.
A Global Powerhouse in Drone Technology
Shenzhen has methodically built one of the world's most dominant industry clusters. Currently, the city is home to approximately 1,900 companies specializing in the low-altitude economy. This concentration of expertise has yielded staggering results: consumer drones produced in Shenzhen now account for 70% of the global market, while industrial drones hold a 50% share.
The economic impact is equally impressive. In 2023, the sector generated an annual output of over 90 billion yuan (approximately $13 billion), marking a 20% increase from the previous year.
Sustained Momentum into 2026
The trajectory of growth shows no signs of slowing down. Data indicates that in 2025, Shenzhen's civilian drone production soared by 40.1% compared to the previous year. This momentum has carried into the current year; according to Guangzhou Customs, exports surged by 66.9% during the first two months of 2026.
For investors and business professionals, Shenzhen's success represents a blueprint for integrating advanced technology into urban infrastructure, signaling a new era where the low-altitude economy becomes a vital pillar of regional economic growth.
Reference(s):
Shenzhen's low-altitude economy soars as city leads global drone race
cgtn.com
