On May 7, Dongguan held a press conference to release the Overall Plan for Building Dongguan into a Global Smart Manufacturing Hub (2026–2030). The plan serves as a strategic blueprint for Dongguan's next-stage industrial transformation, marking a new chapter in the city's evolution from the "world's factory" to a global smart manufacturing hub. 

Senior officials from the city's major departments attended the event. One detail at the press conference offered a vivid glimpse of Dongguan's manufacturing strength: the speakers appeared wearing AI glasses made in Dongguan. According to the briefing, it was among the first press conferences in the world to be conducted throughout with the use of AI glasses, turning the release itself into a live demonstration of Dongguan's smart manufacturing capabilities.

"1+2+3+4+5+6+20"

The new plan sets out a structured framework known as "1+2+3+4+5+6+20." It sets one overarching goal: to upgrade Dongguan from a world factory into a global smart manufacturing hub. It focuses on two major directions, technological innovation and industrial upgrading, while seizing three strategic opportunities involving the acceleration of AI, the restructuring of global supply chains, and deeper Greater Bay Area integration.

The plan will be supported by four strategic pillars, including new industrialization, the "AI + manufacturing" initiative, integration with the Shenzhen metropolitan area, and Dongguan's broader city strategy of "smart manufacturing, quality goods and livable harmony." It also aims to strengthen five core capabilities: key technology leadership, full-process intelligent manufacturing, high-end smart product supply, global resource allocation and industrial ecosystem integration.