Beijing’s policy priorities point to a more intense, multidimensional contest, with a smaller but still meaningful space for cooperation
4-MIN READ4-MIN ListenDenis SimonPublished: 8:30pm, 15 Mar 2026With the conclusion of China’s annual parliamentary “two sessions” meetings, emerging policy priorities suggest its relationship with the United States is entering a new technological era.This year’s government work report set an economic growth target of 4.5 to 5 per cent and announced increased fiscal support for science and technology, including a 10 per cent funding rise for research and development and over 16 per cent for basic research. More than routine budget adjustments, these figures signal China’s determination to anchor its next development phase in scientific capability, technological innovation and advanced manufacturing.The China-US relationship is likely to be defined by intensified competition in key strategic industries, with a smaller but still meaningful space for cooperation in global science and innovation.
