Madrid and Guangzhou Strengthen Urban Collaboration on Smart City Development and Circular Economy

Representatives from Madrid and Guangzhou held a bilateral meeting on 17 December 2025 to explore potential collaboration on urban development and circular economy initiatives, marking a new step in strengthening cooperation between European and Chinese cities. 

During the discussions, the Madrid delegation presented the city’s experience in waste management and renewable energy, with a particular focus on the Valdemingómez Technology Park. As Madrid’s main waste treatment facility, the park processes approximately 3,400 tons of waste per day through a combination of recycling, anaerobic digestion, composting, and energy recovery. These processes contribute significantly to reducing CO₂ emissions while supporting Madrid’s broader circular economy objectives. The delegation also introduced Madrid’s waste collection system, financial model, and sustainability goals within the city’s circular economy framework.

Madrid further showcased its wider circular economy initiatives, including digital city management tools, reclaimed water systems, and a hydrogen-powered public bus fleet. The city highlighted its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 65% by 2030 under the Madrid 360 sustainability strategy, as well as ongoing pilot projects such as AI-assisted waste collection systems.

The Guangzhou delegation, led by Guangzhou Global Star Investment Ltd., presented an overview of the Guangzhou Development District, emphasizing its strong industrial base, advanced infrastructure, and key sectors such as flat-panel display manufacturing and automotive production. Guangzhou’s long-standing role as a major commercial hub was highlighted, alongside its growing focus on environmental protection, waste management, and smart city solutions. The delegation expressed strong interest in collaborating with European cities in areas including circular economy, urban mobility, and city management.

Both sides agreed on the importance of establishing a structured cooperation mechanism, focusing on three main cooperation clusters: circular economy, urban regeneration, and smart traffic systems. The initiative aims to promote sustained knowledge sharing, policy dialogue, and technological exchange.

As next steps, both Madrid and Guangzhou will exchange detailed documentation on their respective practices and facilities in potential clusters and identify targeted areas for cooperation. The collaboration is expected to lay a solid foundation for long-term urban cooperation and joint innovation in sustainable development.