High technology, finance, logistics and culture make up the four pillar industries of Shenzhen. There are more than 30,000 high-tech companies in the city. With the biggest number of patents applied nationally and internationally, Shenzhen has the most advanced computer software, telecom, microelectronics and audio-video sectors among mainland cities. The China Hi-Tech Fair (CHTF) has been held nine times in Shenzhen. A modern logistics center, the city's logistics enterprises turned over an output of 137.4 billion yuan in 2006.

With widely distributed banks, securities firms and insurance institutions from home and abroad, Shenzhen is aiming to become an international finance center by 2010. With leading printing, media and tourism industries in China, the city is thriving in cultural industries. The China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industry Fair, held in the city in May each year, offers a platform to promote Chinese cultural products to the outside world.