Jinan has released its development blueprint for the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–30), detailing initiatives to deepen high-level opening-up and increase the city's global competitiveness. By 2030, Jinan aims to boost its total foreign trade volume to over 320 billion yuan ($47.03 billion) and develop four export-oriented industry clusters, each valued at over 10 billion yuan.

The plan builds on the city's rapid growth during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021–25). Over the past five years, Jinan's total import and export volume increased from 138.26 billion yuan to 289.8 billion yuan, while its network of international sister and partner cities expanded to 93.

Looking forward, the city will prioritize institutional innovation and closer alignment with international high-standard economic and trade rules. Efforts will focus on improving the flow of capital, personnel, and data while advancing development in key areas such as biomedicine and artificial intelligence.

Jinan also plans to increase its presence in emerging overseas markets, including ASEAN countries, the Middle East, Central Asia, and South America. At the same time, the city will speed up the development of digital trade, service trade, and cross-border e-commerce to create new growth areas for foreign trade.

Major opening-up platforms, including the Jinan Area of the China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone and the Jinan Medical Center, will continue to support international industry cooperation. By further integrating into the Belt and Road Initiative and improving infrastructure connectivity, the city aims to attract more high-quality global resources and stabilize foreign investment.

As an international hub, Jinan will update port functions, promote smart port development, and strengthen coordination between comprehensive bonded zones and airport hubs. Simultaneously, the city plans to improve services for overseas talent and foreign residents through the development of international communities, talent exchange platforms, and specialized service centers.