Quantum Computing Boosted in China’s 5-Year Plan for Advancing Technology Aiding ‘National Security & Overall Development’

(Engadget) China used its annual party meeting to outline a five-year plan for advancing technology that aids “national security and overall development.” It will create labs, foster educational programs and otherwise boost research in fields like AI, biotech, semiconductors and quantum computing.
The Chinese government added that it would increase spending on basic research (that is, studies of potential breakthroughs) by 10.6 percent in 2021, and would create a 10-year research strategy.
China has a number of technological advantages, such as its 5G availability and the sheer volume of AI research it produces.
However, this may also be a matter of survival. US trade restrictions have hobbled companies like Huawei and ZTE, in part due to a lack of cutting-edge chip manufacturing. The US also leads in overall research, and the Biden administration is boosting spending on advancements.
As experienced as China is in some areas, it risks slipping behind if it doesn’t counter the latest American efforts.