PLD was founded in 2003 in Shenzhen, China, as a PR and Strategy company, providing services to the top 10 Chinese real estate groups, as well as to international companies entering the Chinese market — including HP, PWC, and others.
In 2012, PLD became one of the top three strategic consulting firms in China’s real estate industry.
Since 2018, following the global trends of cultural, economic, and technological development — and with the launch of the first “Friendly City Project” between the Apulia Region (Italy) and Shenzhen (Guangdong, China) — Cosimo Del Vecchio and Quan Hong decided to establish PLD GLOBAL, a new bridge for Europe–China cooperation in Culture and Technology Innovation.
Cultural Projects
In the cultural field, PLD has completed more than 20 projects between Europe and China. From 2023 to 2025, with the support of the Italian Ministry of Culture, the Apulia Regional Government, and the China Cultural Exchange Center (Art Exhibitions China). PLD organized five official archaeological exhibitions in national museums across China, attracting over 1.5 million visitors, including families and students.
Technology Partnerships
In the technology field, PLD has built strong partnerships with:
Shenzhen Futian District Government, home to over 1,500 high-tech companies
Grand Bay Technology Development Center, one of the most valuable innovation areas in the world
China Unicorn Leaders League, a leading strategic platform promoting collaboration among listed companies and unicorn enterprises
Between 2022 and 2025, PLD has facilitated business visits for more than 20 Italian and German companies to Shenzhen and Beijing, fostering joint ventures in high-tech sectors.
Results
As a result of these initiatives, major Chinese companies are now successfully collaborating with Italian small and medium enterprises, integrating hardware, software, and know-how. For example:
AI Robotics (Ubtech Robotics) applied in hospitals
Hydrogen Technologies (fuel cell stacks and systems), developed in university laboratories in collaboration with FTXT Energy Technology and TO High, both part of the Great Wall Holding Group.
Conclusion
Culture is the vitality of social and urban development, while technology is the driving force behind human and national rapid development.
