Security controls, traffic restrictions and intensive clean-ups, however, are likely to recede after the summit, given the resources needed to sustain them.
But making Shenzhen more internationally accessible goes beyond better services, analysts said.
“At a deeper level, Shenzhen’s next step is to move gradually from improving infrastructure and service details towards regulatory alignment and institutional opening-up,” Zhang said.
That would include closer alignment with Hong Kong and international rules, she added.
Zhai Kun, a professor at Peking University’s School of International Studies, said better payment, transport and language services could help overseas businesses enter Shenzhen’s industrial and innovation networks.
Longer-term indicators would include growth in foreign talent, international air links, service trade and technology exports, he told CNA.
Another measure would be whether more multinational companies choose to locate research, financing and supply-chain operations in Shenzhen.
“Ultimately, these indicators will be reflected in market choices,” Zhai said.
Beyond business decisions, Shenzhen’s international appeal will also depend on the experiences of foreigners who live and work in the city.
