ASPI’s Critical Technology Tracker – The global race for future power

By Joel Wong

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) is a wholly-owned Commonwealth Company formed in 2001 as an independent, non-partisan think tank. ASPI receives funding from Australian and overseas Governments, industry and civil society groups for sponsorship, research and project support.

ASPI paints a concerning picture in this report. China has surged ahead in the global race for technological leadership. They dominate research in a staggering 37 out of 44 critical technologies tracked by ASPI (detailed breakdowns are available in the report’s appendices).

This dominance is particularly concerning given the world’s increasing reliance on critical technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical shifts, and supply chain disruptions have highlighted the vulnerabilities of nations that rely heavily on international sources for these technologies.

China’s technological leadership extends across crucial areas like defense, space exploration, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI). Chinese research institutions, particularly the esteemed Chinese Academy of Sciences, consistently rank at the top globally. Furthermore, China actively attracts international talent, bolstering their research efforts.

This leadership is no accident. China has meticulously planned and invested in long-term technology development strategies, a stark contrast to other nations. The full report offers a deeper dive into these findings and their implications for the future balance of power.

The report also emphasizes the need for urgent action by democratic nations to address the widening technological gap with China.
Recommendations include increased investment in research and development, strategic partnerships, and policies to attract and retain top talent. Failure to act could have severe economic and security consequences.