How US-China science pact’s fate could shake global R&D landscape

The expiration of the US-China Science and Technology Agreement (STA) on August 27 marks a critical juncture in the scientific collaboration between the two global giants. It was one of the formative bilateral agreements signed between US president Jimmy Carter and China’s paramount leader Deng Xiaoping on January 31, 1979. The agreement was designed to foster mutual advancement in science and technology by promoting joint research efforts, information sharing and enhancing bilateral ties. After renewals every five years until 2018, and six-month extensions last August and in February this year, its expiration increases uncertainty over the future of US-China scientific relations. Initially, it was a landmark bilateral accord aimed at strengthening cooperation in scientific and technological domains. It was built on the principles of equality, reciprocity and mutual benefit, emphasising collaborative research and the exchange of experts. The renewal of similar agreements between the US and other countries – such as Thailand, whose STA with the US was extended for another decade on August 5 – highlights the ongoing importance of such bilateral collaborations and underscores their value for fostering long-term scientific progress and international cooperation. The contrast between the US’ extension with Thailand and the expiration of the STA with China underscores the complexities and shifting dynamics of US-China relations. Discussions between the two nations on the agreement’s future are ongoing, according to Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian. The outcome will weigh heavily on the trajectory of US-China scientific collaboration. China’s attitude to the STA reflects a broader competitive approach to advancing its scientific and technological capabilities. Investment in research and development (R&D) has surged since the turn of the century. Despite the impressive growth, China’s overall R&D spending in 2021, at US$668 billion, still lagged behind the US’ US$806 billion. The STA was designed to guide US-China interactions, offering American researchers essential access and protections in China, including in fields that were previously restricted. The Chinese government has shaped its economic and research landscape to align with national priorities, using the science and tech agreement to fill research gaps and bolster intellectual property in targeted sectors. China’s research output in terms of scientific papers and patent registration applications has reached new heights in the past decade. Indeed, the nation has now established itself as a global player in science and technology. Simon Marginson, a professor of higher education at Oxford University, has said “Tsinghua is now the number one science and technology university in the world.” There are 13 Chinese universities or institutions in this year’s global top 15 Leiden Ranking of volume of scientific research output and six in the top 10 of the latest Nature Index. The exchange of students and scholars between the two countries has also played a significant role. Many Chinese students are studying in the US and contributing to China’s scientific advancements. China’s rise in global scientific standing from where it was in 1979 to becoming a leading R&D investor in 2024 shows a significant shift in the global science and technology landscape. Its ascent as a leading patent holder and its growing presence in hi-tech industries have positioned it as a formidable player on the international stage. Failing to renew the US-China STA risks heightening tensions and prompting both nations to focus on domestic R&D in place of joint projects. The US might also seek new partnerships with European or Asian allies while China could turn to partners such as Russia or other emerging economies. This could increase competition and duplication in research efforts, potentially slowing technological advancement. In contrast, renewing the STA could foster stability and cooperation, enabling continued joint research and data sharing, which advances fields such as energy and healthcare. It would also help mitigate tensions and reinforce the value of international scientific agreements. As US-China scientific collaboration evolves, benefits and risks are shifting. Proponents argue that continued collaboration offers significant opportunities for US researchers. At the same time, sceptics express concerns that the STA disproportionately benefits China and supports its ambitions to lead in advanced technology and military capabilities. The future of US-China scientific partnerships depends on the outcome of the ongoing negotiations and the broader geopolitical context shaping their science and technology relationship. Rahul Pandey is a PhD Candidate at Jawaharlal Nehru University, with a research focus on the domestic politics of China

How US-China science pact’s fate could shake global R&D landscape

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Failing to renew the science and technology agreement could increase competition and duplication in research efforts, potentially slowing technological advancement

Failing to renew the science and technology agreement could increase competition and duplication in research efforts, potentially slowing technological advancement