Biotechnology and biomanufacturing are key drivers for the restructuring and green transformation of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, agriculture, food, energy, and environmental protection, and serve as vital pillars for developing new productive forces and promoting high-quality development.Currently, biomanufacturing has entered a new phase of industrial application of modern biotechnology, represented by technologies such as synthetic biology, and has become a strategically critical field in the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation. To thoroughly implement the decisions and arrangements of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, accelerate the high-quality development of the biomanufacturing industry, open up new fields and new avenues, secure the future strategic high ground in the bioeconomy, and build a globally competitive innovation hub for the biomanufacturing industry, this Action Plan is hereby formulated.
I. Overall Objectives
By 2027, biotechnology innovation capabilities will be significantly enhanced, the institutional environment will be further improved, the full industrial chain of biomanufacturing will be gradually established, and an internationally competitive biomanufacturing industrial cluster will be preliminarily formed; the self-sufficiency rate for core microbial strains will reach approximately 40%; 3–5 national-level biomanufacturing innovation platforms will be established;the economic viability of biotechnology products—including innovative drugs, modern traditional Chinese medicines, health supplements, cosmetics, bio-foods, biofuels, and biomaterials—will be substantially improved; more than 10 enterprises with annual revenues of 10 billion yuan or more will be established, along with approximately 20 enterprises with annual revenues of 5 billion yuan or more; and the total output value of the bio-manufacturing industry will reach approximately 500 billion yuan.By 2035, biotechnology and biomanufacturing will gradually become one of the primary drivers of new-quality productive forces. The total output value of the biomanufacturing industry will surpass the 1 trillion yuan mark, and a nationally leading, world-renowned biomanufacturing hub will be essentially established, contributing to the high-quality economic development of our province.
II. Promoting Full-Chain Innovation in Biotechnology
(1) Action Plan for Breakthroughs in Cutting-Edge and Disruptive Technological Innovation.
We will deepen innovation in key generic biotechnology, cutting-edge leading technologies, modern engineering technologies, and disruptive technologies; promote the deep integration of biotechnology (BT) and information technology (IT); and secure a strategic vantage point in biomanufacturing innovation.
1. Accelerate Basic Research and Key Core Technology Development. Focusing on the development needs of the province’s bio-manufacturing industry and prioritizing cutting-edge and disruptive technologies, support qualified universities, research institutes, and enterprises in conducting organized basic research and tackling key core technologies in fields such as synthetic biology, gene technology, protein analysis, cell engineering, and innovative drug development. This will be achieved through the Provincial Fund for Basic and Applied Basic Research and the Provincial Key Area R&D Program, thereby enhancing the province’s innovation and R&D capabilities in bio-manufacturing.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Education, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, and Health Commission, as well as the Provincial Academy of Sciences, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and Guangzhou Branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in accordance with their respective duties. All measures below must be implemented by municipal governments at or above the prefectural level; these are not listed repeatedly.)
2. Promote the deep integration of BT and IT. Accelerate the diversified application of artificial intelligence (AI) across various fields such as biomedicine, biochemistry, bioagriculture, biofood, bioenergy, and bio-environmental protection to drive the evolution of bio-manufacturing toward bio-intelligent manufacturing.Establish and improve the biological data resource system and data collection and sharing mechanisms. Support the Guangzhou Laboratory in building a high-level medical and health big data platform and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area node of the National Biological Data Center system. Make full use of the province’s computing power network and infrastructure to enhance capabilities in biological data acquisition, collection and storage, security management, value extraction, and open sharing. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Health Commission, and Bureau of Government Affairs and Data, among others, according to their respective duties)
(2) Initiative for the Development of Autonomous and High-Efficiency Enzyme Preparations and Microbial Strains.
Strengthen technological innovation in core enzyme preparations, core microbial strains, and chassis cells, improve the level of directed modification and optimization design, achieve self-reliance in biological manufacturing tools, and focus on resolving the supply issues of the “chips” for the biological manufacturing industry.
1. Launch research and development initiatives for high-efficiency enzyme preparations. Vigorously develop core algorithms and tools for enzyme molecular design to enhance capabilities in the artificial design and optimization of key technologies. Promote self-reliance and control over industrial enzymes, enzymes for gene editing, and enzymes for medical diagnostics and pharmaceuticals. Design chassis strains for the high-efficiency production of enzyme proteins and develop novel immobilization technologies to achieve low-cost, large-scale production of industrial enzymes.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Education, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Industry and Information Technology; the Provincial Academy of Sciences, Academy of Agricultural Sciences; and the Guangzhou Branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, among others, according to their respective duties)
2. Increase the self-reliance rate of core microbial strains. Strengthen innovation in industry-common technologies such as new strain breeding, genome editing, and high-throughput screening, and coordinate the research and development of high-performance model and non-model host cells.Focusing on bulk fermentation products and high-value-added products, promote the industrialization and application demonstration of key industrial strains and host cells with high yields, high conversion rates, and high production intensity, and accelerate the enhancement of the innovation capacity and competitiveness of core strains through iterative development. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, and Market Regulation Bureau, as well as the Provincial Academy of Sciences, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and Guangzhou Branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in accordance with their respective duties)
(3) High-End Instruments and Reagents Breakthrough Initiative.
Accelerate the R&D of high-end core instrumentation and equipment for biomanufacturing, enhance the automation, digitization, and intelligence of such equipment, and focus on building an application ecosystem for high-end instrumentation to empower the biomanufacturing industry.
1. Promote the iterative R&D of high-end core instrumentation and equipment. Conduct independent R&D of key instruments and equipment such as transmission electron microscopes, high-performance mass spectrometers, and ultra-large-scale bioreactors; use complete systems to drive breakthroughs in core components and key generic technologies; and optimize assembly processes for complete sets of equipment.Develop supporting industrial software and advance digital technologies such as multi-source sensing, interactive communication, and end-to-end data management. Promote the application of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and digital twins to empower the innovation and R&D of high-end instrumentation. Strengthen the development of reagents for cell culture, analysis, and testing, and promote the compatibility of reagents with scientific instruments. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Education, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Finance, State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, and Market Regulation Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
2. Foster a favorable ecosystem for the application of high-end instrumentation and equipment. Establish a new batch of high-end instrumentation and equipment sharing service centers and industrial bases, and implement policies for the promotion and application of the first-of-a-kind major technical equipment. Accelerate full-chain collaborative innovation, establish industry-academia-research-application innovation consortia to jointly advance key technology breakthroughs and applications, promote open interoperability interfaces for high-end biomanufacturing instrumentation and equipment, innovate a range of application scenarios, and pool resources from across the industrial chain to build an ecosystem for high-end instrumentation and equipment.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
(4) Action Plan for Securing the Supply of Biomass Manufacturing Raw Materials.
Deeply implement the “Hundred-Thousand-Million Project,” carry out work arrangements for the “Green and Beautiful Guangdong” ecological construction and the development of a marine power province, overcome key technological bottlenecks in the utilization of non-grain biomass feedstocks, establish a biomass feedstock processing and supply system, and ensure a reliable and sufficient supply of raw materials for biomanufacturing.
1. Strengthen the supply of raw materials for bio-manufacturing. Promote the sustainable development and high-value utilization of agricultural, forestry, livestock, and fishery waste (such as crop straw and livestock manure), industrial waste (such as molasses and distillers’ grains), and marine biological resources (such as fish, shrimp, shellfish, and algae), while intensifying the exploration of deep-sea and polar biological resources.Innovate in the breeding and cultivation of energy crops such as duckweed, cassava, and elephant grass, and support demonstration planting on marginal lands such as areas affected by rock desertification and tailings sites. Overcome technical bottlenecks in the microbial conversion and utilization of one-carbon compounds such as carbon dioxide and methanol to broaden the sources of raw materials for biomanufacturing.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Ecology and Environment, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Energy Bureau, Forestry Bureau, the Provincial Academy of Sciences, the Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and the Guangzhou Branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in accordance with their respective duties)
2. Strengthen primary conversion capacity for feedstocks. Optimize biomass feedstock pretreatment processes to improve conversion efficiency. Continue to advance low-cost saccharification technologies for non-food biomass, promote the standardization of saccharification processes, and intensify R&D efforts on microbial direct utilization, multi-component separation, and deep processing of feedstocks such as lignocellulose and chitin. Establish a number of integrated demonstration projects for biorefining technologies.Encourage private capital to build supporting infrastructure systems for the collection, storage, pretreatment, and supply of agricultural, forestry, livestock, and fishery waste; explore the establishment of new operational mechanisms; and form large-scale raw material supply bases. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Provincial Academy of Sciences, the Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and others, in accordance with their respective duties)
(5) Action Plan for Building High-Level Innovation and Commercialization Platforms.
Focusing on major needs in the province’s biomanufacturing sector, we will improve the system of innovation and transformation platforms for biomanufacturing, build a hub for industrial innovation in biomanufacturing, and achieve a “mutually reinforcing” relationship between science and technology and the market.
1. Build and Utilize Major Science and Technology Infrastructure Effectively. Provide sustained and stable support for the construction, operation, and management of major national and local science and technology infrastructure, including the Human Cell Lineage Project, synthetic biology, brain analysis and simulation, and the National Genebank. Make effective use of the Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Strategic Special Fund to leverage the resource aggregation and technological spillover effects of large-scale scientific facilities, incubate key biomanufacturing technologies, improve mechanisms for agile technology transfer, and achieve “on-the-go innovation and local transformation.”(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Finance, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
2. Build a laboratory-based scientific research and innovation system. Leverage the leading role of the Guangzhou Laboratory to establish a multi-tiered, high-level system of biomanufacturing innovation platforms comprising national key laboratories, provincial laboratories, national and provincial clinical medical research centers, and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao joint laboratories. Focus on key areas of biomanufacturing to conduct R&D on core technologies and proof-of-concept studies. Strengthen collaboration among key laboratories and top-tier scientific teams to form a biomanufacturing technology innovation and R&D network.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, and Health Commission, among others, according to their respective duties)
3. Deploy Major Industrial Innovation Platforms. Effectively establish and utilize the National Bio-manufacturing Industrial Innovation Center, actively plan and construct a number of major innovation platforms, and encourage the development of industrial innovation centers, technology innovation centers, manufacturing innovation centers, and enterprise technology centers. Focusing on the critical stages of pilot-scale upscaling and mass production, deploy and construct pilot-scale platforms such as those for synthetic biology, and support domestic and international enterprises in establishing pilot-scale bases in Guangdong.Comprehensively improve third-party public technical service platforms for bioequivalence evaluation, testing and inspection, pharmaceutical proficiency testing, and registration and filing. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Market Regulation Bureau, and Drug Administration, among others, according to their respective duties)
4. Develop Specialized Industrial Parks. Leveraging local resource endowments, industrial foundations, and regional characteristics, establish a group of specialized industrial parks across various bio-manufacturing sectors that feature significant clustering, clear economies of scale, differentiated development, and a prominent catalytic effect. Support the provincial biopharmaceutical industrial park in becoming larger, stronger, better, and more specialized. Utilize advanced bio-manufacturing technologies to drive the quality upgrade of provincial modern agricultural industrial parks, food industrial parks, and circular economy industrial parks.Establish a number of advanced demonstration parks in fields such as biomedicine, biotechnology, bio-agriculture, bio-food, bioenergy, and bio-environmental protection. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, the Department of Industry and Information Technology, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
(6) Action Plan for Upgrading the Bio-Information Resource Database System.
Improve the construction of bio-manufacturing resource and information repositories, strengthen the in-depth development and industrial transformation of these resources, unleash the potential of information and data as key resources, generate a synergistic “1+1>2” effect, and help bio-manufacturing achieve sustainable development through quality.
1. Establish a Bio-manufacturing Resource Repository. Support the development of repositories for microbial, animal, and plant germplasm; experimental animal models; and marine biological resources. Build large-scale enzyme libraries and engineered chassis cell banks featuring core microbial strains and animal and plant species.Encourage research institutes and enterprises to jointly establish resource application centers, explore new mechanisms for the co-management, sharing, and co-development of biomanufacturing resource repositories, and enhance the initiative and leadership of downstream enterprises in resource development. Focus on creating a batch of demonstration projects spanning from resource repositories to end products. (The Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Provincial Academy of Sciences, and Academy of Agricultural Sciences, among others, shall be responsible according to their respective duties)
2. Establish a biomanufacturing information repository. Encourage and support relevant universities, hospitals, research institutes, and enterprises to build databases covering multi-omics data on microbial and plant/animal host cells, environmental samples, protein structure and function, RNA modification and function, and process data. Create a library of synthetic biology tools, including scalable and standardized biological components and genetic circuits. Improve basic population cohort resources for respiratory diseases and establish public health databases for highly infectious diseases.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, and Disease Control Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
(7) Action Plan for Supporting and Safeguarding Biomanufacturing.
Promote the high-quality construction of high-level biosafety laboratories and resource platforms; improve the biosafety regulatory system covering the entire R&D and production chain of biomanufacturing; and strengthen the overall layout for biosafety prevention and control in biomanufacturing.
1. Improve biosafety infrastructure. Accelerate the establishment of a platform system for high-level biosafety laboratories. Strengthen the biosafety support capabilities of strategic resource platforms, such as those for human, animal, and plant genetic resources and the preservation of microbial (viral) strains, and support customs authorities in enhancing their biosafety prevention and control capabilities. Establish a network for the exchange and sharing of biosafety resources, information, and technologies, and build a cross-platform safety prevention and control system. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Health Commission, and the Guangdong Branch of the General Administration of Customs, among others, according to their respective duties)
2. Establish a biosafety regulatory system. Strengthen scientific management of biological resource repositories; establish a system for assessing and controlling ethical, environmental, and biological safety risks in biotechnology R&D and production processes; and promote full-chain supervision. Explore the establishment of a coordinated biosafety mechanism among government, enterprises, and R&D institutions; and improve industrial biosafety management systems and product certification frameworks. Actively participate in the research and formulation of international and domestic biosafety standards and regulations.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Ecology and Environment, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Health Commission, Department of Emergency Management, Market Regulation Bureau, Forestry Bureau, Drug Administration, Disease Control Bureau, and the Guangdong Branch of the General Administration of Customs, among others, according to their respective duties)
III. Promoting the Deep Integration of Biomanufacturing Across All Sectors
(1) Biomanufacturing + Pharmaceuticals.
Leverage cutting-edge technologies such as synthetic biology and artificial intelligence to empower the traditional pharmaceutical industry, providing full-chain support for the high-quality development of innovative drugs, advanced diagnostics and treatments, and modern traditional Chinese medicine, thereby propelling the biopharmaceutical industry to new heights.
1. Innovative Drugs. Focusing on major disease areas and centered on new targets, mechanisms, structures, and technologies, prioritize the development of novel drugs such as antibody drugs, cell and gene therapies, nucleic acid drugs, novel biological products, recombinant proteins and peptides, and natural product-based drugs; encourage the research, development, and application of live-bacteria-based drugs. Promote the implementation of pilot programs for segmented production of biological products and support the industrialization of novel biological products and other related products in our province.Publish a catalog of approved innovative biopharmaceutical products in our province and promote their adoption in hospitals according to the principle of “full coverage.” Accelerate the cultivation of new industrial sectors such as AI-driven drug discovery. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Health Commission, Medical Insurance Bureau, and Drug Administration Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
2. Advanced Diagnostics and Treatment. Focusing on prenatal examinations, early cancer screening, companion diagnostics, infectious disease testing, and genetic testing, we will enhance the performance of core raw materials for diagnostic reagents such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), chemiluminescence, rapid diagnostics, molecular diagnostics, and clinical biochemistry. We will promote the application of brain-computer interface technology in diagnostics and treatment. We will develop a range of high-quality in vitro diagnostic products with independent intellectual property rights, accelerate the adoption of new technologies, and effectively improve the level of precise disease diagnosis and treatment.Develop and expand the third-party testing industry. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Health Commission, Medical Insurance Bureau, and Drug Administration, among others, according to their respective duties)
3. Modern Traditional Chinese Medicine. Protect and utilize traditional Chinese medicinal resources effectively; leverage artificial intelligence algorithms to achieve rapid screening and analysis of active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine. Encourage research on the application of synthetic biology in the sustainable development and utilization of traditional Chinese medicinal resources, broaden the sources of active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine, and explore the research and application of vesicles derived from traditional Chinese medicinal materials. Utilize biotechnology to drive the rapid development of clinical applications and commercialization of traditional plant-based and animal-based medicines. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, the Bureau of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the Drug Administration Bureau, in accordance with their respective duties)
(II) Bio-manufacturing + Chemical Industry.
Focusing on bio-based chemicals, bio-based materials, cosmetics and medical aesthetics, and living functional materials, we will strengthen innovation in bio-pathway design and synthetic biology technologies to promote the coordinated development of the entire industrial chain for bio-based chemicals and materials.
1. Fine Chemicals. Promote the extension of the traditional petrochemical industry toward the high-end of the industrial chain, vigorously develop bio-based fine chemicals, and enhance product value-added. Support enterprises in the fine chemicals sector to collaborate with research institutes to design efficient biosynthetic routes and conduct R&D on custom-synthesized chemicals, expanding the application of biosynthetic processes in production. Encourage enterprises to conduct pilot-scale demonstration of biosynthesis using their own production lines, establish a production system for bio-based fine chemicals, and gradually increase the market share of bio-based products.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, and Drug Administration Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
2. Bulk Chemicals and Materials. Leveraging the province’s strengths in science and technology, manufacturing, and market access, support enterprises in collaborating with research institutions to develop non-food-based feedstocks for bio-based bulk chemicals, as well as high-efficiency synthesis technologies and manufacturing processes. Strengthen the industrial application of bio-based materials and accelerate the promotion and application of downstream products such as bio-based plastics, rubber, and fibers in sectors including plastic packaging, daily chemical products, transportation and logistics, and eco-friendly building materials.Establish advanced technology demonstration projects for bio-based materials in regions with favorable raw material conditions. Accelerate the market introduction of new technologies and products for living functional materials. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Ecology and Environment, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
3. Cosmetics and Medical Aesthetics. Overcome technical bottlenecks in the mass production of skincare ingredients; develop efficient biotechnological synthesis routes—such as microbial and enzymatic methods—for core ingredients in high-end cosmetics; and promote the specialized, branded, and international development of the province’s cosmetic products. Strengthen and standardize regulatory oversight of the medical aesthetics industry; actively develop raw materials and dressings for medical aesthetics; support the industrialization of bio-based medical aesthetics products; and explore personalized, customized medical aesthetics services.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Health Commission, Market Regulation Bureau, and Drug Administration Bureau, in accordance with their respective duties)
(3) Bio-manufacturing + Agriculture.
Vigorously promote the integrated development of biotechnology in the agricultural sector, increase the self-sufficiency rate of core seed varieties, accelerate the reduction and substitution of feed ingredients, consolidate the foundation of food security, and develop modern bio-agriculture.
1. Bio-breeding. Implement the “Guangdong Strong Seed Core” project, carry out joint research and development in the seed industry, expand and strengthen leading enterprises in the seed sector, and build modern seed industry bases to high standards.Develop rapid propagation breeding, space-based breeding, and high-photosynthetic-efficiency breeding technologies for C4 crops; actively conduct genetic analysis and breeding research on Guangdong’s characteristic grain and oil crops, livestock and poultry, vegetables, fruits, and aquatic products; and promote green and efficient scientific farming and breeding technologies. Screen and cultivate superior agricultural microbial strains, such as new varieties of edible and medicinal fungi, to promote the diversification of food sources. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the Academy of Sciences, and other relevant entities according to their respective duties)
2. Bio-feed and Bio-fertilizers. Continue to implement the action plan to reduce and replace soybean meal in animal feed, and support the exploration and utilization of new protein feed resources such as duckweed. Promote the high-value utilization of agricultural by-products and organic waste, develop bio-fermented feed, and support the creation and industrialization of new, high-efficiency feed additives.Accelerate the development of the marine bio-feed industry. Implement initiatives to reduce chemical fertilizer use while increasing efficiency and to promote the substitution and utilization of organic fertilizers. Vigorously promote new agricultural microbial inoculants, composite microbial fertilizers, functional bio-organic fertilizers, and microbial soil improvement products. Encourage the production and application of bio-feeds and bio-feed additives within the province, and expedite the formulation of relevant specifications and standards. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
3. Green Pest Control in Agriculture. Promote the application of microbial pesticides, plant-derived pesticides, and biochemical pesticides in plant growth regulation, plant resistance induction, and biological control of plant pests and diseases. Encourage the research and development of innovative biological veterinary drugs, focus on developing new dosage forms, and improve utilization rates.Accelerate the research, development, and promotion of animal pathogen detection reagents, and promote the research, development, and industrialization of new vaccines and green control products based on natural active substances for major animal diseases such as avian influenza, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, and diarrhea. Coordinate the establishment of a province-wide traceability system for agricultural inputs such as pesticides and veterinary drugs, and integrate and promote comprehensive green control and specialized pest management technical models. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
(IV) Biomanufacturing + Food.
Adhering to the “comprehensive food perspective,” we will encourage enterprises to apply biotechnology to accelerate the development of functional, health-oriented, and flavor-enhanced foods, expand food sources, and innovate production methods, thereby achieving a dual leap in both the capacity and tier of the modern food industry.
1. Health Foods. Deepen the “Better Guangdong Food, Guangdong Products to the World” initiative to upgrade the food industry. Use biotechnology to improve the quality of traditional foods and develop new products such as low-purine beer, nutritionally enriched specialty soy sauce, and functional dairy products, creating a portfolio of renowned and viral products. Focus on developing health foods, including health supplements, foods for special medical purposes, and sports nutrition products.Actively develop functional foods that meet the diverse needs of consumer groups such as the elderly, infants and children, and people with special dietary requirements. Support the development of foods and health foods containing active ingredients derived from Lingnan’s distinctive medicinal and edible plants, fully tapping into their health benefits. Advance the research, development, and industrialization of food additives such as plant-based essential oils, polyphenols, oligosaccharides, and antimicrobial peptides. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, the Provincial Health Commission, the Provincial Market Regulation Bureau, the Provincial Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
2. Future Foods. Conduct foundational innovation and scientific research on technologies such as microbial proteins, novel plant proteins, cultured meat, protein-based meat, and biosynthetic foods to foster the development of the future food industry.Increase innovation efforts in areas such as ingredients, texture, functionality, consumption scenarios, and packaging design, and accelerate market expansion through distinctive IPs such as “biomanufacturing” and “green high-end.” Seize the opportunities presented by the rapid growth of the pet food market and promote the early application and maturation of future bio-foods in pet foods for cats, dogs, ornamental birds, ornamental fish, turtles, and rabbits. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and Market Regulation Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
(5) Bio-manufacturing + Energy.
In line with the national strategic goals of “dual carbon” and the requirements for building a new energy system, we will promote the diversified development and multi-scenario application of bioenergy products in a manner suited to local conditions, gradually increasing the production and consumption ratios of various types of bioenergy.
1. Bio-liquid Fuels. Continuously advance the research, development, and iterative improvement of bioenergy technologies such as biodiesel, biojet fuel, bio-methanol, bio-butanol, and fuel ethanol; strengthen the R&D of specialized biorefining equipment; and encourage the synergistic refining of bioenergy with high-value-added products. Support the application of bio-liquid fuels in key sectors such as transportation and agricultural production, and accelerate the construction of industrial demonstration projects.Advance national pilot demonstration projects for the promotion and application of biodiesel in Guangzhou, Foshan, and other cities. Encourage bio-liquid fuel enterprises to participate in international aviation and shipping carbon emission reduction market mechanisms. (The Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Industry and Information Technology, and Energy Bureau, among others, shall be responsible according to their respective duties)
2. Biogas. Strengthen the development of biogas quality improvement and efficiency enhancement technologies, such as anaerobic bio-enhancement, and elevate the standardization and manufacturing level of specialized equipment. In areas with concentrated livestock and poultry farming and high concentrations of food waste, accelerate the establishment of “biogas + bio-organic fertilizer” demonstration projects. Guide energy-intensive enterprises to adopt biogas as a clean energy substitute and encourage the high-value utilization of by-products from biogas production. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and Energy Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
3. Bio-hydrogen. Continue to advance the research, development, and iteration of technologies such as bio-hydrogen production and storage, as well as bio-fuel cells. Strengthen the R&D and manufacturing of specialized equipment to provide technical and equipment support for commercial promotion and application. Encourage the implementation of bio-hydrogen engineering demonstration projects to broaden green hydrogen supply channels within the province. In conjunction with the construction of fuel cell vehicle demonstration city clusters and the implementation of the Guangzhou-Zhanjiang Hydrogen Energy Expressway demonstration project, intensify efforts to promote and apply these technologies.Explore the development of future bioenergy and new biofuel cell technologies. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Energy Bureau, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
(6) Bio-manufacturing + Environmental Protection.
Promote the integrated application of advanced biotechnology in the environmental sector and expand the coverage of application scenarios. Continuously improve the supply and service levels of bio-environmental technologies to provide strong support for green and low-carbon development.
1. Biological Treatment of Water Pollution. Strengthen the development and application of stress-tolerant, high-efficiency microorganisms and enzyme preparations for denitrification and phosphorus removal in wastewater, as well as the removal of recalcitrant organic compounds. Conduct demonstration applications of specialized biological agents and aquatic organisms in areas such as non-point source pollution control and the elimination of black and odorous water bodies. Encourage the use of biotechnology to achieve resource recovery from wastewater and activated sludge. Explore the establishment of a multidimensional biosensing and environmental monitoring system.(Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Ecology and Environment, Department of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Provincial Academy of Sciences, among others, according to their respective duties)
2. Soil and Marine Pollution Control. Strengthen the development and demonstration of bioremediation technologies tailored to the characteristics of tailings and soil pollution in South China, and focus on improving the ecological restoration industry system. Enhance biological treatment of pollution from marine aquaculture, support demonstrations of ecological upgrades to aquaculture ponds using microbial technologies, and accelerate the integration of biotechnology with the “Beautiful Bays” initiative. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Ecology and Environment, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Provincial Academy of Sciences, among others, according to their respective duties)
3. Exhaust Gas and Solid Waste Disposal. Accelerate the development of innovative bioconversion technologies for solid waste, expand the application of biotechnology in establishing a waste recycling system, promote third-party collection, storage, transportation, and centralized disposal services, and facilitate channels for comprehensive resource utilization. Encourage the application of biological agents in the treatment of low-concentration volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and malodors. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Ecology and Environment, Department of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, and others, in accordance with their respective duties)
4. Utilization of CO₂ from Flue Gas. Promote the application of synthetic biology in the utilization of CO₂ from flue gas and continue to achieve breakthroughs in CO₂ bioconversion technologies.Leveraging coastal areas with concentrated CO₂ emission sources—such as the Huizhou Daya Bay Petrochemical Base, the Zhanjiang Donghai Island Petrochemical Industrial Park, and high-efficiency thermal power units along the coast of eastern and western Guangdong—we will establish demonstration projects for the application of CO₂ bio-utilization technologies from stationary sources to accelerate the low-carbon transformation of industrial manufacturing processes. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Ecology and Environment, and other relevant departments according to their respective duties)
IV. Strengthening Support and Guarantee Measures
(1) Strengthen Organizational Leadership.
All localities and relevant departments must attach great importance to the development of the biotechnology and biomanufacturing industries, treating them as key drivers for fostering new-quality productive forces, and promoting development in related fields in accordance with local conditions. Establish and improve a provincial-level working mechanism for the coordinated and routine advancement of the biomanufacturing industry, overseeing the implementation of plans, monitoring and evaluating progress, and strengthening supervision of target achievement. Study the establishment of a statistical monitoring system for the biomanufacturing industry. Improve the expert consultation system, leverage the expertise of specialists in biomanufacturing-related fields, and provide intellectual support for the technological development of the province’s biomanufacturing industry.(Led by the Provincial Development and Reform Commission; relevant provincial units are responsible according to their respective duties)
(2) Optimize Industrial Layout.
Strengthen integrated planning and layout to accelerate the formation of a coordinated development pattern for the bio-manufacturing industry. This pattern will feature Guangzhou and Shenzhen as hubs for industrial science and technology innovation, the Pearl River Delta region as the core industrial development zone, and Eastern, Western, and Northern Guangdong as production and manufacturing hubs and raw material supply bases. Support eligible regions in establishing a number of national and provincial-level pilot zones for biotechnology and bio-manufacturing industries. Establish a provincial-municipal coordination mechanism to advance the construction of major bio-manufacturing projects, major platforms, and key industrial parks.Support Eastern, Western, and Northern Guangdong in collaborating with relevant cities in the Pearl River Delta to establish several “forward- and reverse-flow” industrial innovation enclaves tailored to local conditions, thereby promoting the commercialization of biomanufacturing R&D achievements and enterprise incubation. (Led by the Provincial Development and Reform Commission; relevant provincial units are responsible according to their respective duties)
(3) Strengthen Policy Support.
All localities and relevant departments shall formulate and implement practical and effective policy measures targeting key areas and weak links in biomanufacturing, strengthen institutional frameworks for new fields and sectors, and accelerate the formation of a policy and institutional system supporting the development of the entire biomanufacturing industrial chain.Publicly solicit and release a list of landmark biomanufacturing products that feature advanced technology, significant economic benefits, and outstanding potential for widespread adoption. Implement carbon footprint management policies for biomanufacturing products and pilot the inclusion of green, low-carbon biomanufacturing products in the voluntary carbon emissions trading market. Include eligible bio-based materials in the Guidance Catalog for the First Batch of Key New Materials Application Demonstrations, and encourage government agencies, enterprises, and public institutions to increase procurement of bio-based products.Deepen institutional and mechanism innovation; within the scope of provincial authority, establish early intervention mechanisms and special review procedures for sectors such as biomedicine and bio-food, and further optimize the approval timelines and processes for key bio-manufacturing products. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Industry and Information Technology, Department of Finance, Department of Ecology and Environment, Market Regulation Bureau, and Drug Administration Bureau, among others, according to their respective duties)
(4) Strengthen Support for Key Resources.
Include eligible major projects in national and provincial lists of major projects, providing policy support in areas such as site selection, policy assistance, and project approval, and enhance the level of support for key resources including energy, land, forest, marine, and data usage.Establish a mechanism for increasing investment in the biomanufacturing industry, strengthen financial and economic policy support, and provide necessary support through government investment funds, local government special bonds, and ultra-long-term special treasury bonds. Explore the establishment of a provincial biomanufacturing industry guidance fund through market-oriented approaches, encouraging participation from social capital. Intensify efforts to attract high-level talent, build a pool of top-tier biotechnology professionals, strengthen the development of biomanufacturing disciplines, and cultivate applied and multidisciplinary talent for the biomanufacturing industry.Accelerate the patent portfolio development for original achievements in biomanufacturing and advance the protection and utilization of intellectual property. (Responsibility lies with the Provincial Party Committee Organization Department, the Provincial Financial Affairs Office, the Provincial Development and Reform Commission, the Provincial Department of Education, the Provincial Department of Science and Technology, the Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology, the Provincial Department of Finance, the Provincial Department of Human Resources and Social Security, the Provincial Department of Natural Resources, the Provincial Market Regulation Bureau, and the Provincial Drug Administration, among others, according to their respective duties)
(5) Strengthen Publicity and Guidance.
Continue to successfully organize high-level platforms such as the China Bio-Industry Conference and the Engineering Biology Innovation Conference, strengthen exchanges, cooperation, and supply-demand matching, and foster a favorable industrial ecosystem. Enhance the interpretation of policies related to the biotechnology and biomanufacturing industries, and intensify publicity and promotion efforts for recognized advanced biomanufacturing demonstration zones, innovation platforms, and products included in the list of landmark biomanufacturing products. Strengthen public science outreach on biomanufacturing to increase public awareness and acceptance of life sciences, biotechnology, and biomanufacturing.Vigorously promote green and eco-friendly consumption concepts and encourage diverse forms of biomanufacturing-themed publicity campaigns. Actively leverage the role of industry associations and chambers of commerce as bridges between government and enterprises, and strengthen industry self-regulation. (Relevant provincial units shall be responsible according to their respective duties)
(6) Deepen international cooperation.
Fully leverage the strategic geographical advantages of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to promote the open sharing of scientific resources, such as major scientific and technological infrastructure, and further expand international exchanges and cooperation in biomanufacturing. Advance the International Large-Scale Science Initiative on Human Proteome Navigation and explore the feasibility of launching international large-scale science initiatives in fields such as single-cell life synthesis.Optimize management mechanisms for professional exchanges between universities and research institutions and improve support and guarantee systems for attracting high-level overseas talent. Encourage eligible foreign-invested enterprises in the biotechnology sector to establish R&D institutions in Guangdong, and permit foreign-invested enterprises to engage in the development and application of human stem cell, genetic diagnosis, and therapeutic technologies within the China (Guangdong) Pilot Free Trade Zone. Support Guangdong’s biomanufacturing enterprises in expanding into overseas markets and promote international cooperation in industrial and supply chains. (Responsibility lies with relevant provincial units according to their respective duties)
