In the 1970s, landline home phones were a luxury in China, with new installations costing a staggering 3,000 yuan. Fast forward to 2024, and the same installations are available for just 100 yuan ($13.8), thanks to China's remarkable advancements in science and technology.
During this period, China's average salary soared from a few hundred yuan to thousands, making modern amenities more accessible to the populace. This drastic price reduction is a testament to China's development in the sci-tech sector. In the 1970s, China depended heavily on imported telephone infrastructure, leaving phone service costs largely dictated by foreign technology powers. Today, China stands as a major player in 5G technology, with industry leaders like Huawei and ZTE at the forefront.
China's transformation from an underdeveloped nation to a global scientific powerhouse is the result of strategic planning and sustained investment. The journey began with the launch of the reform and opening-up policies in 1978, which marked a pivotal shift towards embracing science and technology as key drivers of economic growth.
Before these reforms, China's economy was dominated by agriculture with low productivity and inefficient industries reliant on sectors like steel and coal. The Cold War further limited China's access to advanced technologies and knowledge from abroad. Recognizing the critical role of science and technology, China's leaders prioritized rebuilding the country's research infrastructure and fostering global collaborations aligned with national development goals.
By 1988, sci-tech was promoted as the "primary productive force," and in 1995, it was declared one of the two keys to national rejuvenation. The commitment was further solidified in 2006 with the Outline of National Medium- and Long-term Science and Technology Development Plan (2006-2020), elevating innovation to a national strategy.
This strategic focus paid off. By the end of 2023, China's research and development expenditure had increased over 200 times compared to 1991, reaching 3.3 trillion yuan ($460 billion). This massive investment fueled a vibrant innovation ecosystem and attracted a burgeoning scientific workforce, which grew ninefold to 6.35 million full-time equivalents by the end of 2023.
The results speak for themselves. China's intellectual output skyrocketed, with over 4 million invention patents granted by the end of 2023—an 80-fold increase from 1991.
China's journey is a compelling case study of how strategic investment in science and technology can transform a nation's trajectory. By prioritizing research, development, and innovation, China has secured its place among the global scientific leaders.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
