Southwest China's Chongqing municipality is on the hunt for high-end talent. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]

Some 100 recently assembled doctoral scholars applauded the air of innovation and entrepreneurship in Chongqing, local media reported on May 25.

They visited many innovative companies and industrial parks where they had a close look at the vigorous business ecosystem.

It's obvious that the municipal government has been attaching extra importance to the introduction and cultivation of high-level talent, according to their observations.

"With favorable policies and high-quality services, Chongqing feels like a second home to us," said a doctorate holder.

In Xiantao Data Valley, Chongqing's innovation and incubation center, they shared their opinions on supporting facilities, business operations and talent demand with local entrepreneurs.

A tour guide shows the doctors around a high-tech company on May 23. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In the headquarters of crowd-sourcing provider ZBJ.com they were impressed by the company's smart gig economy platform and long-standing pursuit of shared markets.

Chen Zhengji, a doctoral candidate from Xi'an Jiaotong University, was shocked and then inspired by the well-projected industrial development and business-friendly atmosphere of Chongqing.

"I have invited a friend of mine currently studying overseas for his doctoral degree in engineering to come and prove himself in Chongqing," Chen told local media.

A thriving economy coupled with industrial restructuring has led to a strong demand for talent.

By 2020, Chongqing's key sectors are expected to need over 60,000 R&D specialists, 80,000 IT professionals and 110,000 individuals with know-how in other domains, which translates into a recruitment drive for up to 250,000 skilled talents.