Read in Chinese
Speakers:
Mr. Zhao Zhiguo, spokesperson and chief engineer of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)
Ms. Tao Qing, spokesperson of the MIIT and director general of the Operation Monitoring and Coordination Bureau of the MIIT
Chairperson:
Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO
Date:
Oct. 23, 2024
Shou Xiaoli:
Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today, we have invited Mr. Zhao Zhiguo, spokesperson and chief engineer of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), and Ms. Tao Qing, spokesperson of the MIIT and director general of the Operation Monitoring and Coordination Bureau of the MIIT, to brief you on the development of industry and information technology in the first three quarters of 2024, and to answer your questions.
Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhao for his introduction.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Hello, ladies and gentlemen. I would like to express my gratitude to you for your long-term interest in and support for industry and information technology. First, I'll brief you on its development in the first three quarters of 2024.
Since the beginning of this year, with the strong leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the MIIT has thoroughly implemented the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress, as well as the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. Adhering to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, the MIIT has promoted stable growth, advanced structural adjustment and guarded against risks through reform. Overall, the industrial and information-based economy remained stable in the first three quarters, with continuous improvement of the industrial structure and accelerated development of new quality productive forces. Innovations were achieved in key areas, and substantial progress was made in high-quality development. There have been five key highlights of this progress:
First, the industrial economy maintained stable growth. Industrial production remained steady, with a 5.8% year-on-year increase in the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size in the first three quarters, serving as "ballast" for macroeconomic growth with a contribution rate close to 40%. Of the industrial sectors in 31 provinces and equivalent administrative units, and 41 major industrial categories, over 90% experienced growth. Equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing sectors saw rapid growth, with their value added accounting for a higher proportion of the total of the industrial enterprises above designated size compared to the entire previous year. Industrial investment maintained double-digit growth for eight consecutive months.
Second, the transformation and upgrading of the manufacturing industry was accelerated. Efforts to digitalize the manufacturing sector were boosted, cumulatively establishing 421 national-level smart manufacturing demonstration factories and over 10,000 provincial-level smart factories. A total of 13 Chinese enterprises were added to the Global Lighthouse Network, bringing the country's total number of "lighthouse factories" to 72, accounting for 42% of the global total. Solid progress was made in launching the first batch of pilot cities for the digital transformation of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with nearly 10,000 SMEs undergoing digital upgrades. The industrial energy conservation and carbon reduction initiative was further implemented, significantly advancing the development of the clean, low-carbon hydrogen industry and the eco-friendly equipment manufacturing industry. The energy consumption per unit of value added for industrial enterprises above designated size continued to decline.
Third, a host of significant innovations were secured. An 18 megawatt (MW) offshore wind turbine was connected to the grid, the first domestically built Mark III membrane large LNG ship completed its trial voyage, and the C919 large passenger aircraft is now operated by the country's three major airlines. A 1,000 (kilowatt) kW turboshaft engine received its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China, while a 300 MW F-class heavy-duty gas turbine was successfully ignited. Additionally, the Opinions on Innovative Development of Pilot-Scale Testing in Manufacturing Industry and the Guidelines for the Construction of New Material Pilot-Scale Testing Platforms (2024-2027) were issued. Approval was granted to establish two national-local joint manufacturing innovation centers for humanoid robots and embodied intelligent robots, and China's first national practice base for outstanding engineers was set up in Hangzhou. These outcomes have provided strong support for promoting the integration of technological and industrial innovation.
Fourth, business entities experienced steady growth. By the end of August, the number of industrial enterprises above designated size reached 504,000, an increase of 4.4% compared to the end of 2023. A total of 1,557 single-product specialists in the manufacturing industry, over 140,000 SMEs that use special and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products, and 14,600 "little giant" companies (novel and elite SMEs that specialize in a niche market, boast cutting-edge technologies, and show great potential) were cultivated. Additionally, the number of high-tech enterprises within the validity period reached 463,000. In the first eight months, the operating profit margin of "little giant" industrial enterprises above designated size reached 7.5%, higher than the average level of industrial enterprises above designated size.
Fifth, information and communication technologies continued to empower. In the first three quarters, the total volume of telecommunication business increased by 10.7% year on year. Significant efforts were made to promote the coordinated development of new information infrastructure, including the internet, computing power and artificial intelligence (AI). By the end of September, a total of 4.089 million 5G base stations had been built, leading to a 5G user penetration rate of 69.6%. The number of gigabit broadband users reached 196 million, ensuring gigabit broadband connectivity in every county, 5G coverage in every township, and broadband access in every village. The integration and application of 5G technology has been further enhanced, with 5G applications integrated into 76 major categories of the national economy as well as the core aspects of key sectors such as industry and health care. There are now more than 15,000 "5G plus industrial internet" projects in place.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that current shifts in the external environment have notably heightened risks and challenges. Some enterprises are facing difficulties in production and operation. However, the fundamentals sustaining China's economic growth remain unchanged. Our comprehensive industrial system, complete industrial chain support, and relatively low overall manufacturing costs continue to provide a competitive global edge. Positive factors driving growth and improvements are accumulating. In particular, the recent implementation of a raft of incremental policies will continue to stimulate industrial upgrading, unleash consumer potential and invigorate business entities. We are confident about achieving our annual goals and contributing to economic recovery and growth. That concludes my introduction. My colleagues and I are now happy to answer your questions. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Shou Xiaoli:
The floor is now open for questions.
CCTV:
Statistics show that China's industrial production has demonstrated steady growth in the first three quarters of this year. How do you evaluate the development of the industrial economy in the first three quarters? What measures will be taken to ensure sustained industrial growth? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, we have taken the initiative and made concerted efforts with all regions and relevant departments to accelerate the pace of new industrialization and promote the smooth operation of the industrial economy in the first three quarters. Specifically, there are three main characteristics:
First, industrial production has maintained steady growth. We have actively promoted the implementation of policies that have been issued. In the first three quarters, the added value of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 5.8% year on year, and the total industrial added value accounted for 31.8% of GDP. Second, key industries and regions have been key drivers of overall growth. We have thoroughly implemented the work plan for stabilizing growth in 10 key industries, and given full play to the key supporting role of major industrial provinces and cities. The four industries of electronics, nonferrous metals, chemicals and automobiles have contributed nearly half of the growth in industrial production. The growth rate of nine major industrial provinces exceeded the national average. Zhengzhou, Shaoxing, Wenzhou, Hefei and other major industrial cities achieved double-digit growth. Third, the momentum of development continues to accumulate. We have prioritized equipment renewal and technological transformation in the industrial field, and promoted the transformation of scientific and technological achievements into productive applications. Capital expenditure on equipment and tools has increased by 16.4% year on year. The output of artificial intelligence (AI) chips, servers and other products with high technical content and high added value has grown rapidly.
Next, we will strive to fully implement the decisions and arrangements of the Party Central Committee, with a priority on the key task of accelerating new industrialization. We will make greater efforts to stabilize growth, expand demand, increase growth momentum and improve the environment.
To stabilize the overall performance in industrial development, we will further promote the implementation of the work plan for stabilizing growth in 10 key industries. We will support major industrial provinces and cities to consolidate their advantages and take on their major responsibilities. At the same time, we will facilitate industrial transfer and development in northeastern, central and western provinces, enhance their ability to undertake industrial transfer and promote regional coordinated development.
To expand effective demand, we will promote the construction of major projects in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and accelerate their implementation. We will increase efforts to promote the consumption of smart home appliances, coordinate with various regions to accelerate the implementation of trade-in policies for cars and electric bicycles, continue to implement relevant activities, such as stimulating spending on new energy vehicles (NEVs) in rural areas, and fully stimulate the market potential.
To enhance development momentum, we will carry out major technological upgrading and large-scale equipment upgrading projects in the manufacturing industry and large-scale equipment renewal projects, and promote the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry. We will accelerate efforts to promote high-quality development of key industrial chains, major national sci-tech projects, and key national R&D plans to achieve more landmark results. We will study and formulate policies and measures to enhance the technological innovation capabilities of industries, and promote the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation. We will foster and strengthen the low-altitude economy, commercial aerospace, bio-manufacturing and other new industries and new arenas.
To optimize the development environment, we will continue to promote the reduction of enterprise costs and carry out a series of special actions to serve small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We will strengthen industry guidance, strengthen standard quality guidance, enhance industry self-discipline and actively prevent "involution-style" vicious competition. We will continue to improve the normalized communication and exchange mechanism for enterprises, coordinate and solve problems and appeals, and strengthen enterprises' confidence in development. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Cover News:
How has China's automobile industry performed in the first three quarters of this year? How does the MIIT view the development of the country's automobile industry? And what measures have been taken to promote the high-quality development of the industry? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Thank you. I will answer your questions. Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, and with all departments working closely together, the automobile industry has risen to challenges and took positive action. In the first three quarters, the country's automobile industry operated well overall. From a macro perspective, the automobile industry has maintained steady growth. In the first three quarters, the added value of the automobile industry increased by 7.9% year on year. Production and sales reached 21.47 million vehicles and 21.571 million vehicles, respectively, up 1.9% and 2.4% year on year, respectively. A total of 4.312 million vehicles were exported, up 27.3% year on year. From January to August, the operating income and total profit of the automobile industry increased by 3.2% and 3% year on year, respectively. The NEVs sector has shown robust growth. In the first three quarters, production and sales of NEVs reached 8.316 million vehicles and 8.32 million vehicles, respectively, up 31.7% and 32.5% year on year, respectively. In the past three months, the sales of new energy passenger vehicles accounted for more than 50%, achieving a new breakthrough, and 928,000 NEVs were exported, up 12.5% year on year.
However, it should also be noted that the automobile industry still faces challenges such as weak domestic demand and growing export uncertainties. Going forward, the MIIT will conscientiously implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and work with relevant departments to increase policy support and promote high-quality development of the industry.
A wide range of steps will be taken to expand automobile consumption. This includes the effective implementation of policies such as trade-in programs as well as preferential vehicle purchase tax and vehicle and vessel tax incentives to boost consumption. We will continue to promote the initiative of stimulating spending on new energy vehicles in rural areas, launch a new batch of pilots for the complete electrification of vehicles in public sectors and develop guiding opinions on the battery swap model for new energy vehicles, all aimed at actively expanding automobile consumption.
The second measure is to optimize automobile production access management policies. Efforts will be made to promote the issuance of regulations on motor vehicle production access management, improve a dynamic management mechanism for "admission and exit" and pilot self-inspection for road motor vehicle product access to further stimulate the vitality of business entities. We will explore the implementation of corporate group management, support enterprises in improving quality and efficiency, enhancing their strength and competitiveness. Enterprises will be guided to focus on the long term, strengthening technological upgrades, product iterations and innovative models while also continuously enhancing core competitiveness and creating a favorable industrial ecosystem for development.
The third measure is to support the innovative development of technologies. Through channels such as initiatives for high-quality development as well as national key research and development programs, we will continue to advance key technological breakthroughs in areas such as power battery materials and automotive chips. In-depth pilots will be conducted for the access and on-road driving of intelligent connected vehicles as well as "vehicle-road-cloud integration" trials to prudently promote the industrialization of autonomous driving technologies.
The fourth measure is to better support the international development of enterprises. We will actively address trade barriers such as anti-subsidy investigations and high tariffs, providing more support and convenience in areas like investment and management for automotive enterprises going global. We will strengthen the connectivity of standards and the alignment of regulations in areas such as autonomous driving and carbon accounting to create a favorable environment for development. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Phoenix TV:
Over the past year or two, we have noticed that China's low-altitude economy has been developing rapidly. Could you please share what measures and considerations the MIIT has taken to promote the development of the low-altitude industry? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Thank you for your question. This question will be addressed by Mr. Tao.
Tao Qing:
Thank you for your question. Developing the low-altitude economy is a major strategic deployment made by the CPC Central Committee. Low-altitude equipment and industries are important material carriers for the low-altitude economy. The MIIT places great emphasis on the development of the low-altitude industry, currently focusing on four main aspects.
The first aspect is to strengthen top-level planning. This year, we have collaborated with relevant departments to issue the "Implementation Plan for Innovative Application of General Aviation Equipment (2024-2030)," and we are working together with relevant departments to research and support innovative ideas and measures for technology and equipment in the low-altitude industry.
The second aspect is to strengthen the multi-scenario applications as the spearhead. We, together with relevant departments, have carried out pilot projects on the innovative application for general aircrafts in many places across the country. For example, we held a low-altitude industry innovation and development conference in Shihezi, Xinjiang, to promote the establishment of an aviation transportation system with fully integrated network connecting trunk lines and branch lines, as well as between branch lines; we held an on-site meeting about the innovative application of general aviation equipment in Bei'an, Heilongjiang, to create a benchmark for large-scale and regular application models of agricultural spraying and forestry protection by drones. The goal is to reduce the average operating cost for plant-protection drones to less than 10 yuan per mu (0.0667 hectares).
The third aspect is to promote the integration and innovation of information technology and equipment development. Currently, China's major information and communication enterprises, as well as enterprises in power batteries and electric machines, are actively participating in the low-altitude economy, with innovation factors from various fields accelerating their convergence in the low-altitude industry. We have already carried out technological validations and application pilots for low-altitude communication and sensing network technologies based on 5G/5G-A.
The fourth aspect is to improve the system of industrial laws, regulations and standards. To enhance the quality of drone manufacturing, we have issued the " Several Provisions on the Administration of the Manufacture of Unmanned Civil Aircraft" and the "Interim Measures for the Radio Management of Civil Unmanned Aerial Vehicles." We have also compiled national standards, such as the "Safety requirements for civil unmanned aircraft system," and have established a product information system for civil unmanned aerial vehicles to continuously improve the record management of enterprises and products.
Next, we will focus on carrying out the following tasks:
First, we will accelerate breakthroughs in key technologies. We will concentrate on core technologies for low-altitude equipment, safety technologies and operational technologies, systematically promoting breakthroughs for a batch of common key technologies as well as accelerating the innovation and iterative upgrades of general aviation technologies and equipment. Second, we will continuously strengthen scenario applications as the spearhead. We will continue to promote pilot programs in regions with advantages; tailor low-altitude, multi-scenario application demonstration systems to local conditions; accelerate the cultivation of new business forms in low-altitude logistics, urban and intercity air transport, as well as low-altitude cultural and tourism consumption; and expand new models such as agricultural and forestry plant protection, patrol inspections and emergency rescue. Third, we will deepen integrated innovative development. We will actively promote the integration and innovation of new generation information and communication technologies, new energy technologies and low-altitude equipment such as drones. We will conduct studies on the use of radio frequencies in the low-altitude economy, push forward the construction of low-altitude information infrastructure as needed and accelerate the development of low-altitude intelligent connectivity technologies and innovative models. Fourth, we will continuously strengthen support of laws, regulations and standards. We will continue to organize the publicity, implementation, and training of relevant laws and regulations, guide drone manufacturing enterprises in compliance management, promote the establishment of an industrial standard system that spans the entire lifecycle from R&D and design to manufacturing of low-altitude equipment and will encourage industry organizations, such as the Low-altitude Industry Alliance, to strengthen enterprise supply and demand matching, technical exchanges and standard coordination to jointly build a healthy industrial ecosystem. Thank you!
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
21st Century Business Herald:
Since the beginning of this year, the information and communications industry has maintained a steady and rapid growth trend. Could you share more details with us? What are the key plans to further accelerate the industry's development? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
I'll answer these questions. Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, China's information and communications industry has maintained steady growth, achieving new results in high-quality development.
First, emerging telecom businesses have maintained rapid growth. As of the end of September, the total telecom business volume increased by 10.7% year on year, with business revenues from internet and related service enterprises above a designated size reaching 1.17 trillion yuan from January to August. New areas such as internet data centers, big data and cloud computing have become important drivers for growth in the industry. Telecom emerging business revenues in the first three quarters reached 325.2 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 9.4%, continuing the rapid growth trend and providing fresh momentum for the industry. The orderly opening-up of value-added telecom services has also advanced. This morning, the MIIT, along with relevant departments, held a meeting and issued approval documents to Beijing, Shanghai, Hainan and Shenzhen, officially launching pilot programs to expand opening-up in value-added telecom services. We welcome foreign-invested companies to operate telecom businesses in the country.
Second, network infrastructure continues to improve. This year, we adhere to the principle of bolstering infrastructure construction with a moderately proactive approach, introducing policies to promote the 5G RedCap application and the coordinated development of new information infrastructure. A total of 4.089 million 5G base stations have been established, with 10G PON ports for gigabit network services reaching 27.32 million. Additionally, we have established international communications gateway exchanges in four cities: Nanning, Qingdao, Kunming and Haikou, which will further help improve national network services. We have also launched the "Signal Enhancement" initiative to improve signal quality and optimize user experience, accelerating 4G and 5G mobile network coverage in key scenarios like tourist attractions, medical institutions and campuses of higher education.
Third, the comprehensive strength of the industry has steadily improved. The international competitiveness of China's information and communications enterprises has increased significantly, with China Mobile, China Telecom and China Unicom ranking among the world's top 10 telecom operators by revenue. Twenty-four platform enterprises now exceed $10 billion in value, and eight listed companies are among the world's top 30 internet companies by market value. The communications equipment manufacturing industry has continued to thrive, with 220 million mobile phones shipped from January to September, a year-on-year increase of 9.9%. Key technologies are advancing rapidly, with over 15,000 applications and services now available on the HarmonyOS NEXT operating system.
Fourth, inclusive services for public well-being have greatly progressed. Through initiatives, like universal telecom services and the "Broadband in Border Areas" program, more rural and remote areas now have access to reliable network services. Broadband access is now available in all villages and there are over 300 million rural internet users. We are also addressing urgent and difficult issues affecting people's lives, with solid measures including the development of a public service platform for app testing and certification to regulate industry practices. To date, more than 200,000 digital classes for senior citizens have been held, offering training on smart device usage, online payments and anti-fraud knowledge to the elderly and enabling more people to benefit from the digital economy.
Moving forward, the MIIT will continue to promote the coordinated advancement of network construction, application and research, enhancing the information and communications industry to boost China's strength in manufacturing, cyberspace and digital development. The key efforts include: First, advancing network infrastructure upgrades. We will improve policies for dual-gigabit networks (5G and gigabit fiber networks), advance pilot deployment of 10G optical networks and continue to implement the "Broadband in Border Areas" and "Signal Enhancement" initiatives. Second, accelerating research and development of core technologies. We will promote progress and product research and development in 5G-A and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) as well as proactive innovation in 6G, artificial intelligence, quantum information and related fields. Third, deepening integration with the real economy. We will improve policies for 5G scaled applications and high-quality development of the industrial internet, with a focus on creating high-level 5G factories and piloting the integrated application of "5G + industrial internet". Fourth, balancing development and security. We will fully implement data security capability enhancement plans and risk assessments and continuously improve the security of information infrastructure. Lastly, expanding high-level opening-up of the telecom industry. We will encourage foreign enterprises to operate internet data center (IDC) and internet service provider (ISP) businesses in pilot areas. We will provide sound management and services for relevant enterprises and protect their legitimate rights and interests in accordance with the law. Efforts in this aspect will help elevate the openness of China's telecom industry to a new stage. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Xinhua Finance:
As the digital economy experiences rapid growth, society's production and daily life increasingly rely on the support of the ICT industry. Could you please provide an overview of the application of next-generation information technology and the practical initiatives planned for the future? Thank you.
Tao Qing:
Thank you for your question. Since the beginning of this year, we have accelerated the application of next-generation information technology. We've focused on integrating the cutting-edge technology into industries such as manufacturing, mining, power and healthcare to empower economic and social development.
First, the transformation of the manufacturing sector has reached new depths. Focusing on the integration of smart upgrades, digital transformation and internet connectivity, we have promoted the development of the industrial internet in conjunction with key industrial chains. We have successively released a series of guidelines for integrated applications across key industries, including iron and steel, electronic information and construction machinery, establishing 40 typical scenarios spanning 15 domains, such as product design, planning and scheduling and quality control. Currently, 5G applications have been implemented across 76 categories of the national economy, indirectly driving approximately 14 trillion yuan in total output.
Second, information consumption has become more vibrant, with increasingly diverse scenarios. We are accelerating the digital and smarter development of consumer goods. On the one hand, we have solicited case studies aimed at increasing product variety, improving quality, and building brands in the fields of smart homes, textiles and garments, and specialty foods. On the other hand, we've cultivated new models and scenarios, such as flexible manufacturing and digital marketing, based on consumer data. The supply of information products has witnessed a substantial increase, with smart devices like AI-powered mobile phones and smart home technologies rapidly meeting user demands. Data from August shows that the output of service robots rose by 20.1% year on year.
Third, the public goods have become smarter. The application of technologies such as AI and 5G has scaled up significantly, resulting in 135 exemplary cases of new digital services across transportation, culture and tourism, elderly care, health care, and emergency response. For instance, in healthcare, nearly 1,000 pilot projects for "5G plus medical and healthcare" provide online smart diagnosis and AI-assisted diagnostics, reducing misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses while improving diagnostic accuracy. In the culture and tourism sectors, technologies like cloud computing, big data, and geographic information systems have witnessed broader applications during this year's National Day holiday, with new scenarios emerging, such as smart navigation, smart parking, and all-weather emergency services, fully satisfying visitors' personalized needs.
Looking ahead, we are determined to seize the significant opportunity presented by the integrated application and innovation of next-generation information technology, focusing on the following four aspects.
First, we will strengthen the industrial development by continuously promoting the R&D, innovation and industrialization of key technologies such as integrated circuits, industrial software, AI and satellite internet, while also cultivating and developing emerging and future-oriented industries.
Second, we will accelerate the cultivation of ecosystem-driven industrial enterprises, and refine the full-cycle cultivation system for selecting, nurturing and optimizing innovative SMEs that utilize specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce unique products. We will also establish a unified national system, with coordination between provincial governments and ministries, for nurturing unicorn enterprises and creating a group of digital enterprises boasting strong capabilities, great vitality, remarkable potential, and robust competitiveness.
Third, we will enhance the application of information technology to advance the progress of the new industrialization. We will roll out guidelines for the high-quality development of the Industrial Internet, fully implement initiatives to digitalize the manufacturing sector, and promote reference guidelines for smart manufacturing.
Fourth, we will reinforce the industrial ecosystem by establishing a robust system to facilitates the profound integration of the real economy and the digital economy. We will undertake collaborative efforts to achieve breakthroughs across the industrial chain, and focus on cultivating a group of enterprises with competitive advantages and effective production solutions. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:
This year, what progress has China made in green industrial development and energy-saving and carbon-reducing technologies? What are the next major tasks? Thank you.
Tao Qing:
Thank you for your question. Green and low-carbon development is the defining ecological feature of new industrialization. We firmly uphold and practice the concept that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. This year, we have ramped up policy support and jointly issued guiding opinions on accelerating the green development of the manufacturing industry with relevant departments. These efforts have enhanced the progressive cultivation of green factories and promoted the application of energy-saving and carbon-reducing technologies and equipment in the industrial and information sectors. We have also focused on developing green productivity and creating a competitive advantage in green industrial development. Thanks to the combined efforts of all parties, remarkable progress has been registered in green and low-carbon industrial development, as well as in energy conservation and carbon reduction. This year alone, we've established 50 national green data centers, and the average utilization rate of renewable energy has exceeded 50%. Resource utilization efficiency continues to improve, with the comprehensive utilization of industrial solid waste reaching approximately 1.7 billion tons in the first three quarters. The reuse rate of water in enterprises above designated size is expected to exceed 94%. The momentum for green development is accelerating, with the output value of national green factories now accounting for over 18% of the total output value of the manufacturing sector. This year, the output value of eco-friendly equipment manufacturing is projected to approach 1 trillion yuan, and from January to September, new orders for green ships have clinched an impressive 75.9% of the global market share.
Going forward, we will focus on improving the mechanisms for green and low-carbon development. We will issue an action plan for the green and low-carbon development of the manufacturing industry to support a comprehensive green transition in all areas of economic and social development.
First, we will accelerate the formulation of carbon footprint accounting standards for industrial products. Focusing on key products such as steel, electrolytic aluminum, lithium batteries and new energy vehicles, we will swiftly develop a series of carbon footprint accounting standards to help industrial enterprises reduce carbon emissions throughout product lifecycles and promote the transformation and upgrading of industrial and supply chains.
Second, we will strengthen the comprehensive utilization system for waste materials from emerging technologies. Regarding used power batteries, we will formulate and implement comprehensive utilization management measures, revise and publish industry standards for comprehensive utilization, and accelerate the development of a new recycling system. For used photovoltaic modules and similar items, we will enhance policy research and preparation for comprehensive utilization, proactively build utilization capacity, and prepare for the upcoming peak of decommissioning.
Third, we will actively promote the application of clean, low-carbon hydrogen in industrial sectors. Focusing on addressing bottlenecks in implementation, we will further advance integrated policy innovations and accelerate large-scale applications in the metallurgy, chemical, and petrochemical industries, while achieving breakthroughs across multiple scenarios, including industrial green microgrids, green shipping and green aviation. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Zhonghongwang.com:
New information infrastructure, represented by 5G and gigabit optical cable networks, has become a key driver of high-quality economic and social development. Could you please update us on the current progress in this area? What are your next steps? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Thank you for your question. I will answer it. Under the unified guidance of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, our ministry has made solid progress in developing new information infrastructure and achieving comprehensive advancement in networks, computing power and new technology infrastructure. We have built the world's largest and most technologically advanced foundational network. Nationwide, we've established 207 "gigabit cities," ensuring gigabit connectivity reaches every county. We've also expanded 5G coverage to over 90% of administrative villages, comprehensively supporting agricultural development and rural prosperity. Mobile Internet of Things (IoT) terminal users now account for 59.2% of total users, and "things" outnumber "people" in network connections. Our computing power infrastructure ranks among the top globally in both scale and capacity. China's total computing power has reached 246 EFLOPS, with latency speeds of 20 milliseconds between national hubs, effectively supporting computing resource allocation and data flow. We have improved China's computing power platforms and public service platforms for interconnected computing power, along with enhanced monitoring for computing power network quality and operational safety. Emerging technologies, including AI, blockchain and quantum information, are flourishing. Nearly 200 registered generative AI models are now providing public services, with registered users exceeding 600 million.
Next, our ministry will work with relevant departments to deeply implement the strategic arrangements of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. These arrangements include improving institutions and mechanisms for modernizing infrastructure to promote the coordinated development of new information infrastructure.
First, we will develop comprehensive plans for backbone network infrastructure. This includes strengthening the planning of interprovincial trunk optical cable networks, formulating medium- and long-term plans for international communication facilities, accelerating the expansion of international submarine and terrestrial cables, and coordinating the planning and construction of cross-border infrastructure such as international terrestrial cables, international railways, and international oil and gas pipelines. We will also develop regional information hubs in border provinces.
Second, we will optimize the layout of computing power infrastructure. We will continue implementing the action plan for the high-quality development of computing infrastructure. Our focus includes coordinating the distribution of computing resources, guiding the orderly construction of computing facilities, strengthening the supply of intelligent computing power, and improving utilization efficiency. We will also continue advancing the interconnection of computing systems and build a unified national market for computing services.
Third, we will deepen coordinated and inclusive regional development. We will support eastern regions in taking the lead to explore new models for implementing technologies such as 5G-Advanced and AI. We will guide central, western and northeastern regions in accelerating the development of gigabit cities and encourage western regions to strategically locate major computing facilities in areas with significant cost advantages. We will also advance universal telecommunications and broadband services in border areas to enhance network coverage in rural and remote regions.
Fourth, we will promote the integrated development of information infrastructure and traditional infrastructure. This includes coordinating the construction of the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) roadside facilities along highways and urban trunk roads. We will also explore the establishment of integrated sensing and communication network facilities for the low-altitude economy, efficiently arrange urban sensing terminals, and jointly construct city-level IoT sensing terminal management and data analysis platforms. We will also comprehensively build a three-dimensional real-world model of China and establish a digital China spatiotemporal foundation and data integration platform. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
China Electronics:
We have recently noticed a significant increase in consumer spending on digital products, driven by the consumer goods trade-in policy. Could you provide an update on the current state of China's consumer electronics industry and your expectations for the industry's development this year? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Thank you for your question. The electronic information manufacturing industry is characterized by large scale, rapid technological updates and having strong influence on the industrial chain. It is one of the most important industries that stabilize the growth of the industrial economy. This year, China's consumer electronics industry has performed well, primarily reflected in rapid production growth. From January to September, the added value of electronic information manufacturing industry above designated size increased by 12.8% year on year, 7 percentage points higher than the industrial growth in the same period. About 249 million microcomputers, 1.184 billion mobile phones and 150 million color TVs were produced, with year-on-year growth rates registered at 2.9%, 9.8% and 2.5%, respectively. Exports continued to rebound. According to customs statistics, in the first nine months, China exported 580 million mobile phones, 110 million laptop computers and 81.29 million TVs, a year-on-year increase of 3.5%, 0.7% and 8% respectively. Domestic brands have achieved growth in shipments in most markets around the world, with brand influence continuing to increase. The domestic market continues to recover and improve. By the end of September this year, China's smartphone shipments reached 206 million units. There is a strong demand for large-screen TVs ranging from 75 to 100 inches in the domestic market. With the support of trade-in policies, TV sales have increased significantly from the end of August to mid-October. Benefiting from technological upgrades, increasingly rich functions and user experience optimization, shipments of China's smart wearable devices have also maintained a steady growth.
From the perspective of development trends, as new technologies and new products continue to develop and be used, more users will be able to enjoy high-quality, advanced products. These include terminal products equipped with large-scale AI models, mobile phones with tri-fold screen, Mini-LED TVs and laser TVs.
Next, we will combine consumer goods trade-in policies as well as implement relevant policy documents such as the Guidelines on Accelerating the High-Quality Development of the Audio-Visual Electronics Industry and the Smart Health and Elderly Care Industry Development Action Plan (2021-2025), so as to accelerate the release of domestic market demand, actively explore international markets and continue to strengthen and expand China's consumer electronics industry. At the same time, we will continue to support the R&D and innovation of outstanding domestic consumer electronics companies, guide upstream and downstream enterprises in the industrial chain in enhancing their support capabilities for emerging hot technologies and continuously improve product supply levels. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Economic Daily:
Deepening industry-finance cooperation is an important measure to boost the real economy through financial services. Could you introduce more details about the progress and results of China's industry-finance cooperation? What are the next steps? Thank you.
Tao Qing:
Thank you for your questions. All relevant departments and financial institutions adhere to the fundamental purpose of serving the real economy with financial services, innovatively and carry out integrated cooperation between industry and finance. We will prioritize financing support for the implementation of major national strategies, security capacity building in key areas, large-scale equipment renewals, and trade-ins of consumer goods. We will also implement technological innovation and technological transformation re-loans, optimize policies for loan renewals without principal repayment and strongly support the improvement of industrial modernization.
First, the national industry-finance cooperation platform has helped enterprises raise more than one trillion yuan. The platform offers customized, intelligent financial services and has established 24 special zones, such as areas for industrial transfer and advanced manufacturing clusters. It brings together 345,800 high-quality enterprises, 2,965 financial institutions and 741 financial products, contributing approximately 1.0018 trillion yuan in business financing. Since the beginning of this year, an additional 290 billion yuan has been raised, marking a year-on-year growth rate of 40.7%. Second, the special project of "Integration of Science, Technology, Industry, and Finance" promotes the transformation and industrialization of scientific and technological achievements. We have joined with more than 150 leading financial institutions in establishing a promotion and alignment platform for 260 projects in fields such as new generation information technology, equipment manufacturing, aerospace information, artificial intelligence and biomedicine. The amount of equity financing has exceeded 10 billion yuan and nearly 20% of the enterprises' valuation has doubled, indicating that they are actively preparing for initial public offerings (IPOs). Third, we work together with financial institutions to support new industrialization. The financial institutions that cooperate with us cover various types such as banks, insurance companies and funds. In response to the financing needs of manufacturing enterprises, we have innovatively launched a number of special financial products. These include special loans for enterprises that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products, conversion loans for scientific and technological achievements, loans for industrial digital transformation as well as a variety of financial combination models such as "pilot insurance + R&D loan." We have established 17 regional equity markets with specialized boards for enterprises that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products. We have conducted the "one chain, one policy, one batch" initiative to promote financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) as well as have expanded the coverage of inclusive finance. At the same time, we organized the "one month, one industrial chain" investment and financing promotion campaign for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products. This has facilitated the intentional financing of more than 100 billion yuan.
Next, we will continue deepening the cooperation between industry and finance. First, we will expedite the formulation and issuance of policy documents supporting new industrialization through finance. Focusing on key directions and fields of new industrialization, we will increase support through technological finance, digital finance, cross-border finance and policy-based financing. This will guide more financial resources toward promoting technological innovation, advanced manufacturing, green development and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). We will promote the innovative application of digital technology in the financial field and increase digital empowerment. Second, we will actively leverage the connecting and consolidating effects of the national industry-finance cooperation platform. We will strengthen cross-departmental enterprise information sharing mechanisms, optimize platform functionality and continuously expand the platform's capacity to provide public services to enterprises. Third, we will thoroughly implement the "Integration of Science, Technology, Industry, and Finance" initiative. We will fully utilize the "green channel" mechanism for sci-tech companies' IPOs, mergers and acquisitions, and bond issuances, guiding social capital to provide sustainable, multi-channel funding for key sectors and critical areas. Working with relevant departments, we will expedite the establishment of the third batch of specialized boards for enterprises that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products in regional equity markets. We will also optimize the nationwide "one month, one industrial chain" financing promotion campaign to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) achieve more precise industry-finance alignment. Thank you.
_ueditor_page_break_tag_
Shou Xiaoli:
One last question, please.
CNR:
We know that the market application of scientific and technological advances is an important bridge connecting production and scientific research. In terms of accelerating the application of scientific and technological outcomes, what are the considerations and measures of the MIIT for the next stage? Thank you.
Zhao Zhiguo:
Thank you for your question. General Secretary Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasized the need to promote integrated advancements in technological and industrial innovation, and to promptly apply the advances of scientific and technological innovation to specific industries and industrial chains. The MIIT has taken pragmatic steps to vigorously develop the science and technology service industry and quicken the industrialization of scientific achievements. Currently, China has cultivated over 16,000 incubation institutions serving more than 700,000 startups and teams. More than 5,000 companies graduating from these incubators have achieved public listings, with one-third of companies listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STIB) being incubator graduates. We've established 420 national technology transfer demonstration institutions and 12 regional centers, accelerating technology transfer and transformation. Technology transactions remain robust, with nationwide technology contract transactions reaching 4.49 trillion yuan in the first three quarters of this year, up 17.8% year on year. Moving forward, we'll focus on four key aspects:
First, we'll improve the top-level design of the science and technology service sector. This includes expediting releasing guidelines for developing the sector, establishing a technical committee for industry standardization, developing guidance for standardization systems, and promoting innovation development clusters in the sci-tech service sector.
Second, we will improve the enterprise incubation system. We're shifting focus from quantity to quality in both incubation facilities and technology transfer markets. We'll issue updated management measures for the accreditation of hi-tech enterprise incubators, promote tiered incubator development, and support excellent incubators in emerging and future industries, accelerating the cultivation of key and core technology enterprises.
Third, we will develop an integrated technology market. We will implement reform initiatives from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee by establishing a unified national technology transfer service platform and accelerating the development of a unified technology trading market. We will revise both the management measures for technology contract registration and the rules for technology contract verification and registration, while strengthening standardized management of technology contract certification. Additionally, we will cultivate a cohort of highly qualified technology managers to serve as effective "technology matchmakers," facilitating the transformation of scientific achievements from research to commercialization and turning samples into products.
Fourth, we will move faster to promote the application of scientific and technological advances. We will select advanced and practical technologies, promoting their implementation across traditional industries and SMEs. Working with relevant departments, we will develop guidelines for "pay-after-use" arrangements for scientific and technological outcomes, encouraging universities and research institutions to license their technological innovations to enterprises. We will implement demonstration projects for industrial applications of scientific advances, creating demonstration scenarios within state-owned enterprises to promote the industrialization of technological breakthroughs. Thank you.
Shou Xiaoli:
Thanks to all the speakers and our friends from the media. That's all for today's briefing. Goodbye, everyone!
Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Yang Xi, Yang Chuanli, Xiang Bin, Wang Yanfang, Zhang Jiaqi, Yan Xiaoqin, Yan Bin, Wang Yiming, Li Huiru, Zhang Junmian, Fan Junmei, David Ball, Jay Birbeck and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.
