Employees work at Nantong Richen Bioengineering Co. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The National Science and Technology Awards for the year were announced in Beijing on June 24, with Nantong enterprises securing one first prize and two second prizes in the national scientific and technological advancement category.

Among these achievements, an offshore wind power equipment project in the high-end manufacturing sector owned by Zhongtian Technology Submarine Cable Co, which is based in the Nantong Economic and Technological Development Area, or NETDA, was awarded the first prize.

Similarly, Nantong Richen Bioengineering Co, also based in the development area, participated in a project involving key technologies and applications for efficient breeding and optimization of industrial fungi in food bio-manufacturing, earning the second prize.

NETDA formulated a strategic plan years ago to vigorously develop the "3+1" emerging industries, strategically positioning itself in emerging fields. The "3+1" strategy encompasses new-generation information technology, high-end equipment, pharmaceuticals and health, and new energy.

Zhongtian Technology Submarine Cable Co established itself in the development area in 2004, while Nantong Richen Bioengineering Co started its business in the development area in 2009.

"Apart from the development area's advantageous location and favorable conditions, the clear and consistent industrial development direction played a pivotal role in our decision to develop business here," said a manager from Zhongtian Technology Submarine Cable Co, highlighting how the development area's unwavering commitment to industrial development has provided an ideal environment for technological research and development for enterprises.