Qingdao KingAgroot CropScience, a leader in the life and health sector within the Qingdao Area of the China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone (Qingdao FTZ), has been designated a key laboratory for crop biology and new variety breeding by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

Founded in 2009, KingAgroot has gone from a local startup into a global leader, now boasting the world's fifth-largest crop science research and development team. The company has created a sophisticated "innovation loop" that integrates the development of new chemical compounds, the discovery of novel genes, and the breeding of elite germplasm.

The company also holds core gene-editing technologies, such as the "KingCas12 gene scissors", that provide essential technical support for China's seed industry security. By furthering the development of green pesticides and biotechnological breeding, KingAgroot is leading the modernization of agriculture.

This national recognition also highlights the success of Qingdao FTZ's long-term strategy for fostering high-quality growth in the life and health industries. KingAgroot, along with industry leaders BGI Genomics and Guoxin Pharmaceutical, is a key driver in the city's biopharmaceutical value chain.

To date, Qingdao FTZ has attracted 69 major projects in the life and health sector. This expanding industry cluster is creating a powerful synergy, positioning the zone as a leader for biotechnology and international trade innovation.