The ‘Ministers’ Corridor’ at China’s 14th National People’s Congress on March 5 became the stage for an inspiring update from Minister Yin Hejun. Disclosing last year’s R&D investments, he announced a total of 3.92 trillion yuan from all societal sectors—2.8% of GDP—fueling the nation’s tech ascent.
Particularly noteworthy, basic research absorbed 280 billion yuan, representing 7.08% of R&D funds. This milestone, exceeding 7% for the inaugural time, heralds a new era of discovery-driven progress.
China’s ascent is multifaceted: securing 10th place in global innovation rankings, pioneering open-source large language models, pioneering chip innovations, and greenlighting 76 innovative medicines. These feats are weaving science into the fabric of industry, commerce, and daily living, delivering real-world benefits.
Minister Yin’s vision underscores how strategic investments are not merely financial—they’re catalysts for sustainable growth, improved livelihoods, and China’s enduring leadership in the global innovation race.