17th May 2025, Kathmandu
China has revealed its national roadmap to build a “Digital China” by the end of 2025. The new action plan aims to improve infrastructure, boost AI-powered industries, and develop a skilled digital workforce.
China’s Digital China 2025
The National Data Administration released the plan and outlined several key goals for digital development. The plan aligns with China’s broader strategy of promoting digital transformation across all sectors.
AI, Infrastructure, and Data at the Core
At the heart of the plan lies the integration of “AI Plus” across various industries. This initiative encourages businesses to embed artificial intelligence into operations, services, and products.
In addition, China wants to upgrade its digital infrastructure. This includes improving connectivity, data centers, and cloud computing facilities. The country will also promote the data economy by encouraging innovation and supporting new startups in the sector.
To sustain growth, China will invest in training programs to build a digitally skilled workforce. These efforts aim to create a talent pool that can support AI, big data, cybersecurity, and other advanced technologies.
Stronger Data Market and Local Digital Economies
The action plan introduces a strategy to develop a unified national data market. Authorities will work on improving how data is collected, shared, and governed. The goal is to create a healthy and secure data exchange system that supports innovation.
Moreover, the plan emphasizes region-specific digital economic development. Cities and provinces will receive support to develop digital industries that match local strengths. For example, coastal cities may focus on digital trade, while inland areas may prioritize smart manufacturing.
These measures aim to lift the overall quality and reach of China’s digital transformation.
Major Targets Set for 2025
China expects significant progress in its digital development journey by the end of 2025. The government has set measurable goals to track this progress.
One major goal is to ensure that data-driven industries contribute more than 10% to the national GDP. This means industries using AI, big data, and digital services must grow rapidly.
Additionally, China aims to expand its computing power. The plan targets over 300 EFLOPS (ExaFLOPS) in national computational capacity. This level of computing power will support everything from real-time analytics to advanced AI research.
Eight Key Focus Areas Identified
To support the broader vision, the plan outlines eight key priority areas:
Institutional innovation – Streamlining policies for data sharing and governance.
Localized technology promotion – Encouraging the use of region-specific tools.
AI experimentation – Supporting pilot projects using AI in public services and industries.
Infrastructure upgrades – Expanding broadband and cloud systems.
Digital literacy programs – Increasing technical skills among the population.
Secure data ecosystems – Enhancing cybersecurity across networks.
Business model transformation – Helping firms embrace digital operations.
Green digital development – Promoting eco-friendly digital solutions.
These areas will serve as building blocks for a smarter and more inclusive digital nation.
Digital Sector Reports Strong Growth
Recent figures show China’s digital economy is already gaining momentum. According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the digital sector earned ¥8.5 trillion (about USD 1.18 trillion) in the first quarter of 2025. That’s a 9.4% increase compared to the same period last year.
This growth comes from rising demand for smart devices, cloud services, and digital platforms. Businesses are embracing automation, and consumers are spending more on online services.
Support for SMEs and Industry Transformation
The government is also focusing on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The official work report for 2025 highlights several actions:
Speeding up the digital upgrade of traditional industries
Improving service providers with advanced technologies
Offering more support for tech adoption by SMEs
These steps aim to ensure that all companies, large and small, benefit from the digital economy.
The government also plans to develop digital tools for production and logistics. These changes should improve efficiency and cut operational costs for manufacturers.
Long-Term Vision for a Digital Future
China’s leadership wants the country to become a global model for digital governance and innovation. The 2025 plan is part of a longer journey that includes green tech, AI ethics, and smart governance.
By combining strong computing power, digital skills, and supportive policies, China hopes to create a secure and high-performing digital ecosystem. The country also aims to reduce regional disparities by bringing digital services to rural and underserved areas.
Conclusion
China’s Digital China 2025 Action Plan marks a bold step toward digital leadership. With clear goals, strong financial backing, and policy support, the nation is ready to accelerate its transformation.
As the world watches closely, China’s success may shape how digital economies evolve globally, especially in AI, data markets, and cloud technologies.
For more: China’s Digital China 2025