In 2025, China reached significant milestones in innovation, as reported by the Minister of Science and Technology, Yin Hejun, during a session of the national legislature. The nation achieved a record R&D investment, exceeding 3.92 trillion yuan (approximately 569 billion U.S. dollars), which represents 2.8 percent of its GDP.
Yin highlighted a historic increase in basic research funding, which approached 280 billion yuan, accounting for 7.08 percent of total R&D expenditure. This marks the first time that basic research funding has surpassed the 7 percent threshold.
The Minister outlined several technological advancements that China has made, particularly in the fields of humanoid robots, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. These advancements include the impressive performance of humanoid robots, the development of open-source AI models that are leading the global market, and significant breakthroughs within the semiconductor sector.
Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress, noted that 2025 was a pivotal year for China’s humanoid robot industry, which experienced considerable advancements in both technology and practical applications.
Additionally, the country approved 76 innovative drugs for market entry in 2025, with the overall value of out-licensing agreements exceeding 130 billion dollars, as reported by Yin.
Looking forward, the Chinese government has unveiled ambitious development targets for the period spanning 2026 to 2030. The government aims for an annual average increase of at least 7 percent in nationwide R&D spending. Furthermore, plans include the establishment of three international centres for scientific and technological innovation, which are expected to evolve into world-class innovation engines.
Another key objective is to elevate the value added of core digital economy industries to 12.5 percent of GDP within the next five years.
These initiatives underscore China’s commitment to fostering a robust innovation ecosystem as it continues to position itself as a leader in global technology advancements.
Source: Xinhua