China’s ‘innovation boom’ brings more opportunities

‘The fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) called for achieving greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology and steering the development of new quality productive forces.

- By He Yin (People’s Daily) 15:32, November 01, 2025

This major decision reflects a profound understanding of the essence and laws of innovation and demonstrates the CPC's strategic resolve to shape new advantages in development through science and technology.

It will not only inject strong momentum into advancing Chinese modernization, but also bring new opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the rest of the world.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China has made solid strides in innovation-led development. In 2024, the country's total research and development (R&D) investment exceeded 3.6 trillion yuan ($506.28 billion), up 48 percent from 2020. China's overall national innovation capacity rose from 14th to 10th place in the global ranking. Emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, new energy, and biotechnology are rising rapidly, forming new drivers of economic growth.

From Shenzhou spacecraft soaring into space and the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope exploring the universe, to the domestically produced C919 passenger jet and China's first large cruise ship entering commercial operation, these milestones testify to the country's steady march toward self-reliance and strength in science and technology.