The world is undergoing unprecedented transformations, with technological innovation playing a decisive role in shaping global dynamics. During the period of the 15th Five-Year Plan, China has identified high-quality development as a major strategic priority, placing strong emphasis on accelerating high-level technological self-reliance.
As a national platform for global scientific and technological innovation, exchange, and cooperation, the 2026 Zhongguancun Forum has drawn international attention to China’s latest advancements. A global survey conducted by CGTN, under China Media Group (CMG), found that 90.4 percent of respondents believe innovation-driven technological competition will become the central arena of overall national strength.
Since its establishment in 2007, the Zhongguancun Forum has consistently focused on “innovation and development” as its core theme. This year’s forum, themed “Deep Integration of Technological and Industrial Innovation,” is expected to attract more than 1,000 participants from over 100 countries and regions. According to the survey, 84.6 percent of respondents view the forum as an excellent platform for exchange and cooperation among scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors worldwide. Meanwhile, 89.4 percent believe it serves not only as a showcase for China’s technological achievements but also as an important window for its active participation in global technology governance.
From large AI models and embodied AI to quantum technology, biomedicine, 6G, and brain-computer interfaces, the forum highlights cutting-edge sectors shaping new productive forces. Among these, artificial intelligence stands out as a key driver. About 71.4 percent of respondents believe AI is a crucial factor in restructuring industrial systems and enhancing productivity, while 74.7 percent see a new wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation already underway, driven by AI.
The influence of AI is no longer confined to virtual computing. Some 81.7 percent of respondents noted that its applications are expanding rapidly, becoming a major force in transforming lifestyles. Additionally, 65.6 percent believe AI could help address labor shortages amid global aging trends.
During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China’s research and development (R&D) spending reached 2.8 percent of GDP. Over the next five years, R&D expenditure is expected to grow at an average annual rate of over 7 percent, with technological innovation positioned at the core of China’s modernization drive. The survey shows that 92.8 percent of respondents believe China can effectively mobilize resources to overcome key technological challenges, reflecting its structural advantages. Meanwhile, 84.1 percent highlight that China’s vast population and large market provide favorable conditions for translating innovation into practical outcomes.
As the new wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation deepens, greater international cooperation and openness are increasingly essential to address shared global challenges. According to the survey, 84.9 percent of respondents believe China is demonstrating a commitment to open collaboration and mutual benefit in technological innovation, creating more opportunities for the global community.
The CGTN survey was conducted across its English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian platforms, with 8,723 participants worldwide sharing their views within 24 hours.
Source: Shishir-Touhid-Anandi, China Media Group.