On July 30, 2025, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) released the National Information Development Report (2024), which reviewed nationwide progress in informatization and set priorities for 2025. Following the release, CAC experts provided three official interpretations, focusing on strategic directions for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), informatization as a driver of the “dual circulation” policy, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in accelerating China’s transition from informatization to intelligentization.
In 2024, China made notable progress across five areas of informatization. Innovation advanced with breakthroughs in semiconductors, operating systems, large AI models, and blockchain. The digital economy’s core industries reached 10% of GDP, while digital literacy rose above 60% among adults. Empowerment was driven by stronger infrastructure such as 5G, gigabit broadband, and a national computing power network, alongside rapid growth in data markets and digital–green integration. Inclusiveness improved through wider access to telemedicine, smart education, e-government services, and cultural digitization. Security was reinforced through new rules on AI governance, cross-border data protections, and more than 150 cyberspace regulations. Openness expanded through participation in global digital governance, WTO e-commerce talks, and Silk Road E-commerce partnerships with 33 countries.
AI has become a central driver of this transformation. By the end of 2024, China had registered 302 generative AI services with over 600 million users. National computing power reached 493 EFLOPS, supported by vast datasets and an expanding AI talent base. AI is reshaping research, governance, and industry through the “AI+” initiative. In agriculture, AI enables precision farming; in manufacturing, it powers smart factories and digital design; in services, it supports smart homes, logistics, and immersive tourism. AI is also enhancing governance through e-government tools and urban management, while in public services it is improving healthcare, social security, elderly care, and education.
Looking ahead, the 15th Five-Year Plan sets five strategic directions. First, self-reliance, with breakthroughs in AI, quantum, semiconductors, and basic software, alongside stronger open-source ecosystems and digital industry clusters. Second, innovation-driven empowerment, with expanded infrastructure such as satellite internet, improved data circulation, and deeper integration of digital and green development. Third, a people-oriented approach, focused on improving digital services in healthcare, education, and governance, while expanding cultural digitization. Fourth, systemic security, with stronger cybersecurity, data protections, and rule of law in cyberspace. Finally, global cooperation, with China seeking a larger role in shaping international digital rules, advancing the Digital Silk Road, and expanding partnerships with emerging and developing economies.
Taken together, these efforts highlight China’s dual-track strategy: consolidating progress in informatization while accelerating intelligentization through AI. By 2030, China aims to secure technological self-reliance, integrate AI deeply across all sectors, and strengthen its role as a leading force in global digital governance.
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