Science and technology in China

Science and technology in China have developed rapidly during the 1980s to 2020s, and major scientific and technological achievements have been made since the 1980s.^[1][2] From the 1980s to the 1990s, the Chinese government successively launched the "863 Plan" and the "Strategy for Rejuvenating the Country through Science and Education", which greatly promoted the development and progress of China's science and technology.^[1][3] Governmental focus on prioritizing the advancement of science and technology in China is evident in its allocation of funds, investment in research, implementing reform measures, and enhancing societal recognition of these fields. These actions undertaken by the Chinese government are seen as crucial foundations for bolstering the nation's socioeconomic competitiveness and development, asserting its geopolitical influence, and elevating its national prestige and international reputation.

Modernizing at a breakneck speed, 21st-century China has made tremendous strides in the proliferation of modern scientific and technological education, academic publishing, and patents to pioneer new and cutting-edge goods and services, infrastructure, and industries through commercial applications to rival the standards of science and technology set by the Western world. Contemporary China is now increasingly harnessing the reservoir of targeting indigenous innovation and aims to reform remaining weaknesses. As per the Global Innovation Index in 2022, China was considered one of the most competitive in the world, ranking 11th in the world, 3rd in the Asia & Oceania region and 2nd for countries with a population of over 100 million.^[4]