China to step up research on disruptive, frontier technologies: report

China is set to intensify its efforts in developing disruptive and cutting-edge technologies as part of a broader strategic plan to enhance its global competitiveness. The country's focus on frontier technologies includes fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum information science, integrated circuitry, life sciences, biotechnology, new materials, renewable energy, and deep-sea, space, and polar exploration.

This push for innovation aligns with the Chinese government's ambitions outlined in initiatives like "Made in China 2025" and the "New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan," which aim to transform China into a global leader in advanced manufacturing and technology. The government has committed substantial resources to support research and development in these areas, including significant funding for national laboratories, research institutions, and higher education.

The emphasis on frontier technologies also reflects China's desire to reduce dependence on foreign technology and to address challenges related to national security, economic stability, and social development. By investing in these areas, China hopes to foster innovation, create new industries, and drive economic growth.

Moreover, China's advancements in frontier technologies are not limited to domestic development; they also have implications for international trade, geopolitics, and global governance. As China becomes more competitive in these high-tech sectors, it may seek to shape international norms and standards in ways that favor its own technological ecosystem.

In conclusion, China's stepped-up research in disruptive and frontier technologies represents a strategic move to bolster its position as a global technology powerhouse, with potential ripple effects across various aspects of international relations and the global economy.