Two Sessions 2026 — 15th FYP implementation & AGI/AI/robotics/chips/ethnic/ecom/services acceleration
Key Questions
What key tech strategies were approved in China's 15th Five-Year Plan (FYP)?
The NPC approved the 15th FYP with R&D spending over 7% of GDP, digital economy at 12.5%, and acceleration in AI, robotics, and ICs. It includes initiatives like $9T in machine tools, SMIC's 7nm chips, and a smart economy integrating AI with physical industries. Xi emphasized demand-driven services growth and tech boosts.
How much AI compute power does China possess?
China has approximately 2.8 million H100e equivalents, representing about 1/8 of global compute. This supports advancements despite U.S. export controls, as highlighted in analyses of the AI race.
What is the scale of China's robotics industry investment?
China is investing $400B in robotics, featuring companies like Midea and Unitree. There's a frenzy for talent, with scientists commanding up to $2.5 million salaries amid humanoid robot development.
What is OpenClaw AI and its impact in China?
OpenClaw is an open-source AI assistant surging in adoption for e-commerce and stock trading in China, driving experimentation. It has prompted regulatory scrutiny and fears over job displacement from AI.
What did Xi Jinping emphasize for the services sector?
Xi urged a demand-driven growth approach in services, coupled with reforms and tech integration. This aims to boost the sector amid the 15th FYP's focus on high-quality development.
What is the Ethnic Unity Law and its controversy?
China passed a new Ethnic Unity Law, criticized by the Tibet Policy Institute for legalizing forced assimilation and violating the constitution. It has sparked backlash over ethnic policies.
How are Chinese chipmakers performing?
Chinese chipmakers are nearing 50% domestic AI chip market share, reducing Nvidia's lead. SMIC achieved 7nm production, bolstering self-reliance amid global tensions.
What are the concerns around robotaxis and AI in China?
Robotaxi protests highlight public fears over job losses from AI and robotics. Guidelines for high-quality e-commerce and AI regs address rapid adoption in sectors like trading.
NPC approved 15th FYP tech strategy (R&D>7%, digital 12.5%, AI/robotics/ICs); Ecological Code; $9T tools/SMIC 7nm; China ~2.8M H100e compute (1/8 global); $400B robotics (Midea/Unitree); OpenClaw AI surge in e-com/stock with regs/job fears; Xi pushes demand-driven services growth/tech boost; smart economy AI-physical; Ethnic Unity Law backlash; robotaxi protests.