China Urged to Accelerate Development of National Blockchain Infrastructure
One member of the National People’s Congress has suggested that China should expedite the development of national blockchain infrastructure to support government services, the country’s supply chain, and trade. Dong Jin, a deputy to the NPC, submitted a formal suggestion urging the government to establish broader blockchain infrastructure and industry standards to stimulate the growth of the country’s blockchain industry. He emphasized that China has accumulated a significant amount of data resources due to its flourishing digital economy and that blockchain technology could facilitate data circulation and sharing.
Dong, who manages a national blockchain research center in Beijing, revealed that the center is currently working on a blockchain-based system to serve industries including maritime transport, supply chain finance, and energy.
Discussions at ‘Two Sessions’ Event in Beijing
The NPC deputy made his proposal during the “Two Sessions” event in Beijing. This annual gathering brings together thousands of delegates from across China, including political elite and industry leaders. While China continues to ban cryptocurrency trading and mining, it remains enthusiastic about homegrown blockchain technology and digital economies. Chinese tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent are actively developing their own consortium networks.
In May 2023, Beijing released a whitepaper with the aim of enhancing innovation and development in the country’s Web 3.0 industry. The government intends to establish Beijing as an innovation hub for the economy.
Implications of Developing National Blockchain Infrastructure
If China accelerates the development of national blockchain infrastructure, it could have several significant implications:
- Government Services: Blockchain technology can enhance transparency, security, and efficiency in government services. By leveraging blockchain infrastructure, China can streamline administrative processes and improve service delivery.
- Supply Chain: A robust blockchain infrastructure can revolutionize supply chain management. By providing an immutable and transparent ledger, blockchain technology can enhance traceability, reduce fraud, and optimize logistics.
- Trade: Blockchain infrastructure can facilitate cross-border trade by simplifying documentation processes, ensuring the authenticity of transactions, and reducing intermediaries. This can lead to increased efficiency and cost savings for businesses.
- Data Circulation and Sharing: China’s flourishing digital economy generates vast amounts of data. A national blockchain infrastructure can enable secure and efficient data circulation and sharing across industries, fostering innovation and collaboration.
The Future of China’s Blockchain Industry
If China establishes broader blockchain infrastructure and industry standards, it could propel the growth of the country’s blockchain industry in several ways:
- Innovation: A robust blockchain infrastructure will provide a solid foundation for innovation in various sectors. It will encourage entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies to develop new applications and solutions based on blockchain technology.
- Economic Growth: The development of the blockchain industry can contribute significantly to China’s economic growth. It can attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate technological advancements that have a positive ripple effect on other industries.
- Global Leadership: By establishing itself as a leader in blockchain technology, China can shape global standards and influence the development of the global blockchain ecosystem. This will enhance its geopolitical influence and strengthen its position in the digital economy.
Conclusion: Accelerating Blockchain Development in China
The suggestion to accelerate the development of national blockchain infrastructure in China highlights the country’s recognition of the potential benefits offered by this transformative technology. By establishing broader infrastructure and industry standards, China aims to stimulate the growth of its blockchain industry and leverage blockchain technology to enhance government services, the supply chain, and trade. This move aligns with China’s broader strategy to become a global leader in technology and innovation.
Hot Take: China’s Push for Blockchain Supremacy
China’s emphasis on developing national blockchain infrastructure reflects its determination to lead the world in this emerging technology. By prioritizing blockchain development, China aims to:
- Secure Technological Dominance: By establishing itself as a leader in blockchain technology, China can gain a competitive edge in the global digital economy. It can shape the development of blockchain standards and protocols, giving it significant control over future technological advancements.
- Enhance Surveillance Capabilities: Blockchain technology offers enhanced transparency and traceability, making it attractive for governments seeking better surveillance capabilities. By developing a national blockchain infrastructure, China can strengthen its monitoring and control mechanisms.
- Promote Digital Yuan Adoption: A robust blockchain infrastructure is crucial for the successful implementation of digital currencies. By accelerating blockchain development, China is preparing the groundwork for wider adoption of its digital currency, the digital yuan.
China’s push for blockchain supremacy has significant implications for global geopolitics and the future of technology. As China continues to invest heavily in blockchain research and development, it is poised to reshape various industries and assert its dominance in the digital era.