In recent years, China has made technological self-sufficiency a top priority. With trade tensions with the United States restricting exports of chips and other components, China has recognized the need to become more self-reliant in technology. In line with this goal, the government has announced plans to develop emerging industries, such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI).
The government’s work report highlights its efforts to launch major science and technology programs to meet strategic and industrial development goals. It also emphasizes the importance of leveraging the strengths of the new system for mobilizing resources nationwide to raise China’s capacity for innovation.
This year’s focus on emerging technologies, particularly AI, is not surprising. Last year’s Central Economic Work Conference identified building self-reliance and strength in technology as top priorities for the government’s work in 2024 and beyond. This emphasis on AI also aligns with China’s goal of improving national security and economic resilience by nurturing domestic innovation capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
To support these efforts, China will nurture more first-class scientists and innovation teams while improving mechanisms for identifying and nurturing top-tier innovators. The government has also granted more power to the ruling Communist party in making tech-related policies, including establishing a new technology commission under its control.
I think the government views this centralization as lowering coordination costs and increasing the efficacy of targeting key tech development, said Doug Fuller, a researcher with Copenhagen Business School.
However, some experts have expressed concerns about the potential consequences of this centralization. With the flow of necessary information possibly dwindling, there may be challenges in enacting effective policies and addressing existing information asymmetries between central ministries and other actors.
China’s efforts towards tech self-sufficiency and its focus on emerging industries like AI are crucial steps towards achieving its goals. By nurturing domestic innovation capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, China is positioning itself as a leader in the global technology landscape. As we continue to see advancements in quantum computing and AI, it will be interesting to see how China’s efforts in these areas will shape the future of technology.
