In-depth analysis finds country’s success down to continuity of funding and investment in early careers, but collaborations and original scientific discoveries still proving challenging
(19 Oct 2026) China’s transformation into a research powerhouse has been built on sustained investment, institutional continuity and considerable backing for young researchers, according to the findings of a “forensic” analysis that lifts the lid on how the country’s innovation system now works.
The landmark study, published on 19 October, charts the rise of “fundamental” Chinese research over the past four decades in comparison with other systems around the world.
It shows business backing for research is steadily increasing in the Communist state but international collaborations are faltering amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing concerns over national security.
Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and an international team, the China Fundamental Research Report (2026) was authored by scholars across nine Chinese universities.
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