Small and medium-sized enterprises in the region of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone aim to move up the value ladder by taking advantage of new policies and facilities in the pioneer area.

By doing so, they hope to cope with an increasingly competitive global export climate, where low prices are no longer sufficient for success.

Under the framework plan for the FTZ issued by the State Council on Sept 27, manufacturers and traders in Shanghai are encouraged to focus on technology, branding, quality and services to upgrade China's export capability.