Zhengzhou Aviation Port Economic Comprehensive Experimental Zone has introduced the Measures for Financial Institution Clustering and Financial Services Supporting the Real Economy, aiming to strengthen the region's financial ecosystem and support high-quality economic development. Central to the plan is fostering cross-border finance and establishing Zhengzhou as a regional aviation financial hub aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative.

The measures encourage global and domestic financial institutions—including banks, securities, insurance, asset management, and fintech firms—to establish headquarters, branches, or specialized subsidiaries in the zone. Incentives include financial grants, operational support, and recognition for institutions contributing to capital market growth, cross-border RMB settlement, and green finance initiatives.

Offshore financial centers, international settlement hubs, and large corporates with independent accounting can receive settlement rewards equal to 1% of paid-in capital, capped at RMB 10 million. Foreign financial institutions approved by China’s regulatory authorities may receive 2% of paid-in capital, up to RMB 50 million. Banks and corporates conducting cross-border RMB settlements are also eligible for tiered annual rewards based on transaction volume, with top performers receiving additional recognition.

Companies attracting foreign currency or RMB financing through loans or offshore bond issuance may receive up to 1% or 0.2% of the financing amount as incentives, respectively. Financing leasing in sectors like aerospace, high-end manufacturing, biopharma, and new energy vehicles is further rewarded. Support extends to green finance, including interest subsidies on green bonds and rewards for expanding green loan portfolios. Transaction platforms, futures warehouses, and professional financial associations are also incentivized to strengthen the zone's ecosystem.

The pilot program provides clear guidance for enterprises on utilizing cross-border financing for green initiatives, potentially lowering financing costs while offering international investors attractive ESG-compliant assets. The initiative also aligns domestic green finance standards with international norms, a process reinforced by China's dual-track strategy that references both domestic and global principles. This alignment enhances transparency, credibility, and international recognition of Chinese green bonds.

A senior APAC investment officer at a foreign bank notes: “Green foreign debt pilots help elevate Chinese corporate reputation globally. Enterprises with international ambitions can signal adherence to climate and environmental stewardship, which resonates strongly with global investors.”

Historical practice demonstrates tangible benefits. In October 2022, a gas company in Bazhou, Xinjiang, successfully raised RMB 3 million in foreign debt from a Macau-based bank, saving nearly RMB 20,000 in financing costs while fulfilling day-to-day operational needs.

Beyond cost efficiency, the pilot encourages enterprises to channel foreign debt toward innovation, emerging industries, high-end manufacturing, Belt and Road projects, and international capacity cooperation, reflecting a holistic approach to sustainable economic growth.

Zhengzhou Aviation Port's measures reflect a comprehensive approach to building a regional aviation finance hub, combining financial incentives, operational support, and talent development to attract both domestic and international players.