Integration of tech and industry a growth driver

Editor's note: The Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development propose substantial improvements in scientific and technological self-reliance and strength. China Daily spoke to Sui Jigang, director of the Institute of Science and Development at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, about the integration of technological and industrial innovation during the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period. Below are excerpts from the interview. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

A new round of scientific and technological revolution, represented by cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum information and biotechnology, is accelerating the convergence of disciplines, driving a new wave of industrial transformation and promoting the rapid development of future and emerging industries. These new technologies and industries will reshape the global economic landscape.

The recommendations thus emphasize the importance of seizing the historic opportunity presented by the new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation.

Bolstering self-reliance and strength in science and technology, seizing the commanding heights of sci-tech development and steadily cultivating new quality productive forces have also been emphasized. The commanding heights represent forward-looking, comprehensive and strategic technologies that are central to global technological competition. For countries, these technologies serve as critical strongholds that determine their competitive advantages in future development.

In today's highly competitive landscape of science and technology, gaining an edge in these technologies is crucial for taking the lead. Breakthroughs in AI, quantum computing and advanced manufacturing not only drive the growth of emerging industries but also enhance China's global influence through technological advances and strong market presence.

Mastering core technologies and scaling them into industries will enable China to reduce its reliance on imported technologies, transition from being a follower to a standard-setter, and reshape the global technological landscape. Establishing high-tech standards effectively means influencing the market rules, which strengthens China's position in global value chains.

The pursuit of high-quality development and the building of a modernized economy have intensified the demand for scientific and technological innovation. Whether it is for upgrading traditional industries to boost efficiency or for fostering emerging and future industries to open up new markets, innovation is required to restructure the industrial system.

Scientific and technological innovation facilitates the allocation of talent, capital and technology through the synergy of market and institutional frameworks, enabling diverse innovators to unleash their potential.

The key to high-quality development lies in shifting growth drivers from traditional factors to technology, institutions and talent. Refining supply and demand structures through innovation and leveraging market mechanisms can help achieve industrial upgrading, balanced development and greater social equity, which ultimately helps realize high-quality development.

Technological innovation, particularly in emerging technologies, is a defining feature of the new quality productive forces. When integrated with labor, materials and means of production, these technologies are transformed into practical applications, generating stronger momentum for development.

Fostering new quality productive forces requires harnessing the power of technology to fuel industrial transformation and boosting overall productivity. The integration of technology and industry has significantly shortened the cycle from research and development to industrial applications.

Emerging sectors such as new energy, advanced materials and information technology are flourishing, while production is becoming increasingly digital and intelligent. Technological advancements are rapidly being translated into productivity.