China's research and development (R&D) spending reached 2.8% of GDP in 2025, marking the first time the country has exceeded the average investment level of OECD nations, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This milestone coincides with China's debut in the top 10 of the World Intellectual Property Organization's Global Innovation Index.
Tech Manufacturing Booms High-tech sectors saw explosive growth last year, with 3D-printing equipment production surging 52.5% year-on-year. Industrial robot output increased 28%, while civilian drone manufacturing jumped 37.3%. NBS head Kang Yi highlighted that "humanoid robots are entering factories," signaling accelerated automation.
Smart Factories Multiply By December 2025, China had established over 500 state-of-the-art smart factories in sectors ranging from green energy to intelligent manufacturing. The aircraft and spacecraft equipment manufacturing sector saw investment growth of 16.9%, while information services attracted 28.4% more capital than 2024 levels.
Green Transition Accelerates New energy vehicle production exceeded 16 million units in 2025, accounting for over half of domestic car sales. Clean energy generation at major industrial enterprises grew 8.8%, with solar, wind, and nuclear power driving the transition.
