China leads in 90% of critical technology research

The data comes from research conducted by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), which, through its Critical Technology Tracker project, monitors the most cited research studies in 64 areas over the past 21 years.

Of the 64 monitored areas, China leads in 57, and in 24 areas, it could potentially gain a monopoly position. Twenty years ago, China led in only three areas. In contrast, the USA, which dominated 60 areas 20 years ago, now leads in only seven. Alongside the traditional centers of technological research, India is emerging as a potential new leader, although it does not lead in any area, it has placed in the TOP-5 in 45 areas.

The EU as a whole maintains its position as a relatively strong player. None of the EU member states holds the first position in any of the critical technology areas (the strongest, Germany, is in the top-5 in 27 areas). However, as a whole, the EU would lead in two areas and rank second in 30 areas.

In addition to the results themselves, the research in a broader context highlights the importance of strategic and long-term planning and investments in technological research. This aligns with the arguments presented in the recently published Draghi Report on EU competitiveness. The report identifies the need to accelerate innovation and find new sources of growth as one of the three critical transformations for the European Union in the coming period. The first area for action it highlights is the need to close the innovation gap with the USA and China, particularly in advanced technologies. Similarly, the results of ASPI's research shed new light on the recommendations of the Letta  Report on the EU single market from April this year, which calls for the creation of a 5th pillar of the EU single market, focused on research, innovation, data, competences, knowledge, and education.