Shanghai is expected to establish a demonstration zone for cruise tourism. This is part of the plans of the port to become a hub for the industry including cruise shipbuilding, retail operations, and as a base for cruise lines' headquarters across Asia-Pacific region.
Shanghai's demonstration zone will be constructed at the former iron and steel production center. A 1,700 m2 (18,300 ft2) duty-free shop inside the port will open in early November when the 2nd China International Import Expo takes place in the city.
Since Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal opened back in 2011, Shanghai's cruise port has become the largest in Asia, with dock extensions and a pair of new terminal buildings opening during the last few years. In 2019, Costa Venezia and Spectrum of the Seas debuted at the cruise terminal. MSC Cruises is due to homeport MSC Bellissima here in 2020. Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Star Cruises also have plans to base ships in Shanghai.
The local government has signed a letter of intent with two shipbuilders - China State Shipbuilding Corp (CSSC) and Fincantieri (Italy) - to develop the Shanghai CSSC International Cruise Industrial Park. CSSC has started construction of the first of a fleet of Chinese-built cruise ships operated by a new company/joint venture CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Ltd, between Carnival Corporation and CSSC.