China's Premier Defends Tech Rise, Says Innovation Is Driving Growth
BEIJING, June 24, 2026 — China's Premier Li Qiang has defended the country's rapid technological progress, rejecting claims that government subsidies are the primary force behind China's success in advanced industries.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions in Dalian, Li said China's achievements in sectors such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, robotics, quantum computing, and semiconductors are the result of innovation, research, and large-scale private investment.
The premier emphasized that China's technological advancement should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat to the global economy. He argued that Chinese companies have become more competitive through years of investment in research and development, despite facing international restrictions and trade barriers.
Li highlighted major Chinese technology firms as examples of resilience and innovation, stating that businesses have continued to grow even under challenging circumstances. He also called for greater international cooperation in the governance of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.
His remarks come at a time when several Western countries have raised concerns over China's growing influence in global technology markets. However, Chinese officials insist that the nation's development contributes to global innovation by providing advanced and affordable technologies to consumers worldwide.
As competition in the global tech sector intensifies, China continues to position itself as a key player in shaping the future of emerging technologies. Analysts believe the country's focus on innovation and industrial upgrading will remain central to its economic strategy in the years ahead.
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