As 2026 approaches, provincial governments across the Chinese mainland are finalizing bold strategies for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), with artificial intelligence and next-generation technologies taking center stage. Recent policy announcements reveal concentrated investments in humanoid robotics, low-altitude economy infrastructure, and quantum computing research hubs.
Shanghai authorities announced plans to establish three new AI industrial parks by late 2026, while Shenzhen aims to become a global leader in drone delivery systems under its low-altitude economy initiative. Coastal provinces like Zhejiang and Guangdong have allocated over 40% of their preliminary innovation budgets to semiconductor manufacturing upgrades.
The National Development and Reform Commission confirmed this week that 23 provinces have submitted draft plans meeting national decarbonization targets. “This coordinated approach ensures our economic modernization aligns with ecological civilization goals,” stated a commission spokesperson.
Business analysts note increased cross-strait collaboration, with Taiwan-based tech firms securing 17% of mainland robotics component contracts for 2026 projects. Overseas investors from Hong Kong and Macao have committed $2.3 billion to green energy initiatives tied to the plan.
With China targeting 5% annual GDP growth during the plan period, international financial institutions are revising 2026 Asian market forecasts. The World Bank estimates the plan could generate 8 million new tech-sector jobs by 2028.
