China has established itself as the dominant global supplier of rare earths, a group of 17 minerals that are crucial to countless advanced technologies. China’s capacity to disrupt global rare earth supply chains has raised alarm bells in several major countries, but Beijing’s influence within the industry is likely to be eroded in the coming years.
The world economy is shaped not just by states, but also by an assortment of influential companies that act as critical elements of national economic power. In conjunction with China’s emergence as an economic superpower, Chinese companies have climbed the ranks to be among the largest in the world.
Global leaders in innovation produce the discoveries that shape the modern world. An economy’s capacity to innovate is dependent on a variety of factors, including its commitment to research and development, the quality of its workforce, and the effectiveness of government institutions.
The automation of processes and procedures with cutting-edge technologies, such as advanced robotics and artificial intelligence, has the potential to fundamentally change the global economy. As China looks to sustain economic growth, how it harnesses automation will be crucial to its long-term economic competitiveness.
R&D is the backbone of innovation. It supports the development of new scientific methods, technologies, and commercial goods – all of which can boost economic productivity and raise living standards. After decades of export-led growth, China is increasingly turning to innovation as a driver for its economy.
China is seeking to enhance its domestic capacity for scientific and technological innovation by building a permanent manned space station. Developing further space capabilities can enhance China’s international prestige and enhance its technological prowess.
China is seeking to improve educational quality and increase access across the country. A well-educated Chinese workforce can bolster China’s technological and scientific development and thus strengthen the country’s position in an increasingly innovation-based global economy.
Innovation enables countries to generate wealth through the development of new products and modes of production and thus is a crucial component of national power. Examining the sources of innovation can lend insight into its position as an emerging leader in new technologies.
