On July 20th, reports emerged indicating that the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) places significant emphasis on the strategic planning and construction of next-generation communication networks as a cornerstone for advancing the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. MIIT has outlined a comprehensive approach to drive this progress across three key dimensions:

1. Network Infrastructure Construction and Deployment: This involves orchestrating the holistic development of foundational, spatial, international, and converged networks. Efforts will focus on accelerating the widespread commercial adoption of 5G and 10-gigabit optical networks, expanding international submarine cable connectivity, and expediting the establishment of cutting-edge industrial networks. The goal is to create a robust infrastructure framework that supports a smart economy and society.

2. Industrial Support and Empowerment: MIIT aims to bolster research and development in core technologies such as 6G mobile communications, optical communications, submarine optical cables, and satellite communications. This will involve accelerating product innovation and supporting the high-quality construction of next-generation communication networks. The ministry will underscore the pivotal role of enterprises in driving technological innovation, while leveraging the synergistic potential of industrial platforms, research institutes, and industry associations to foster efficient collaboration across the innovation and industrial value chains.

3. Application Innovation and Promotion: This dimension focuses on deepening the integration of 5G and gigabit optical networks in key industries, fostering innovative application scenarios and models. MIIT will promote the convergence of brain-computer interfaces, embodied intelligence, and intelligent connected vehicles with 5G, 6G, satellite, and internet technologies. By harnessing the digital foundation provided by next-generation communication networks, the ministry seeks to enable collaborative, innovative applications across water networks, new power grids, urban underground pipe networks, and logistics networks.