In July 2024, a widespread tech outage struck many parts of the world, bringing airports, banks, and hospitals to a standstill. In stark contrast, China demonstrated an impressive resilience, with essential services functioning smoothly throughout the crisis. Reports indicated that the outage primarily affected foreign companies operating within China, which shows that China's domestic systems are robust enough to withstand external shocks. This incident is a clear reflection of China’s dedication to self-sufficiency, underscoring its ability to maintain stability even amidst global challenges.
In light of persistent trade tensions—particularly with the U.S.—China is aggressively pursuing a policy of technological self-sufficiency. A recent government work report lays out an ambitious roadmap for the development of emerging technologies, specifically targeting sectors like quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI). By significantly amplifying investments in domestic innovation, China aims to diminish its reliance on foreign technology. Additionally, the government is reining in its tech policy under a centralized commission, which is designed to streamline decision-making and enhance the effectiveness of resource management for tech advancement.
China's vision for technological advancement extends beyond immediate self-sufficiency goals into fostering long-term national capabilities in innovation. The government is focusing on cultivating top-tier scientists and innovation teams, establishing mechanisms to identify and support leading tech talents. This commitment not only enhances scientific development but strategically positions China as a dominant force in the global tech ecosystem. The recent restructuring to create a technology commission under the Communist Party reflects an intent to unify policymaking, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure that China remains a key player in shaping the future of global technology.
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