China targets 6G, robotics and quantum tech as growth engines by 2030

China will develop 6G communications, robotics and quantum technology into economic pillars by 2030, with the industry ministry promising accelerated commercialisation and research trials to prepare for large-scale deployment.

Vice-minister of Industry and Information Technology Xin Guobin announced the plan at a State Council Information Office press conference on Wednesday, framing the push as an effort to "integrate technological and industrial innovation to promote high-quality development". The strategy targets a range of advanced sectors including brain-computer interfaces and nuclear fusion as future growth engines.

6G and embodied AI take priority

Next-generation 6G communications will be a "top priority," according to Liu Yulin, head of the ministry's information and communications development department. The ministry plans to fast-track core technology research, run technology trials and develop industry standards ahead of eventual commercial roll-outs.

Officials also spotlighted embodied AI, systems enabling robots and automated machines to perceive, learn from and interact with their environment, as a crucial development area. The ministry said it would accelerate the commercialisation of artificial intelligence in manufacturing.

Push driven by economic headwinds

The initiative comes as Beijing seeks to sustain growth through technological self-reliance and industrial upgrading amid mounting economic challenges. Domestically, sluggish consumer spending, a prolonged property sector slump and industrial overcapacity in sectors like electric vehicles continue to weigh on the economy.

Internationally, China faces intense competition in advanced technologies and foreign scrutiny of its booming export sector, including clean energy products. The ministry also pledged renewed efforts to curb cutthroat competition in the domestic automotive industry.

Source: South China Morning Post