Hefei boosting image as high-tech powerhouse

The facility had already served over 4,000 foreign patients in 2024, marking a 176 percent increase from the previous year, the hospital said.

As Hefei opens its doors wider, other cities in Anhui are also poised to benefit. Huangshan, home to China's iconic Huangshan Mountain, reported a total of 92.2 million visitors in 2024, a 10.8 percent year-on-year increase.

However, international tourist numbers remained below pre-COVID-19 levels, with only 180,000 inbound visitors in 2024 compared to 2.87 million in 2019.

The introduction of the visa-free transit policy is expected to drive a strong rebound in inbound tourism.

Such a transformation is among Anhui's broader push toward modernization and economic leadership. Traditionally overshadowed by China's coastal powerhouses, Anhui has rapidly emerged as a front runner in industries such as new energy vehicles, integrated circuits and advanced display technologies.

Today, the province produces one-fifth of China's photovoltaic modules, one-seventh of its lithiumion batteries and one-eighth of its NEVs.

Lenovo, one of the world's leading tech giants, has also cemented its presence in Hefei.

"AI is not just enhancing efficiency — it's redefining what's possible in modern manufacturing," said Yang Yuanqing, chairman and CEO of Lenovo Group, in a separate interview.

Yang said Lenovo's Hefei factory now processes over 5,000 orders daily, with AI-powered scheduling slashing processing times from six hours to just 90 seconds, leading to a 23 percent increase in production efficiency.

With a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology, a welcoming environment and ambitious urban planning, Hefei is fast becoming a gateway for global travelers and a beacon of China's future-oriented development.

As Elyse wrapped up her visit, she reflected on her short stay.

"Hefei has truly amazed me. From futuristic transport to warm hospitality, I can't wait to come back and explore more."