‘Two sessions’ signals China-US tech contest is entering a new era

With the conclusion of China’s annual parliamentary “two sessions” meetings, emerging policy priorities suggest its relationship with the United States is entering a new technological era.

This year’s government work report set an economic growth target of 4.5 to 5 per cent and announced increased fiscal support for science and technology, including a 10 per cent funding rise for research and development and over 16 per cent for basic research. More than routine budget adjustments, these figures signal China’s determination to anchor its next development phase in scientific capability, technological innovation and advanced manufacturing.

One clear message is the central importance of technological self-reliance. The work report emphasised the need to achieve “greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology”, calling for breakthroughs in core technologies. These priorities reflect a recognition that long-term economic resilience depends on indigenous technological capabilities.