The 2026 Zhongshan Industrial Design Competition (ZIDC) was launched on August 14, with entries open until the end of October.

With a total prize pool of 1 million yuan, this year's ZIDC features a general competition and a special Torch High-tech Zone optoelectronic design competition. Entries span smart home appliances, artificial intelligence and smart robotics, new energy and smart equipment, health care, fashion and cultural products, design for global markets, and etc. For the first time, a satellite division has been set up at Guangdong University of Technology.

Five supporting programs will be held alongside the competitions, including supply-demand matchmaking sessions for enterprises, themed salons, specialized training, trade shows and overseas marketing meetings.

At the launch ceremony, the Zhongshan Innovative Design Empowerment Center, jointly established by the Zhongshan Bureau of Industry and Information Technology and Shenzhen Institute for Innovative Design, was signed into effect.