Zhang Yu Zhuo, Minister of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, recently outlined the strategic priorities for central state-owned enterprises (SOEs) during the 16th Five-Year Plan period. He stressed the importance of guiding these enterprises to deepen and expand the "AI+" initiative, which integrates artificial intelligence with traditional and emerging industries to boost productivity, innovation, and competitiveness. This initiative is central to China's technological transformation and industrial upgrading. Key focus areas include emerging sectors such as new energy, new energy vehicles (NEV), new materials, aerospace, and the expanding low-altitude economy, all critical for China’s industrial modernization and sustainable development ambitions. Beyond these, Zhang emphasized proactively advancing cutting-edge fields like quantum technology, embodied AI, biomanufacturing, and 6G communications—frontiers poised to offer significant global competitive advantages. Quantum technology is prioritized for its potential to revolutionize computing, communications, and encryption. Embodied AI, combining AI with robotics and autonomous systems, is vital for intelligent manufacturing and service industries. Biomanufacturing merges biology and manufacturing to develop biomedical products and sustainable solutions, reflecting biotechnology's rising importance.

Meanwhile, 6G communications promises unprecedented wireless speeds and connectivity to support future digital ecosystems. Zhang’s remarks highlight the Chinese government’s commitment to leveraging SOEs as key drivers of innovation-led growth, aligning their efforts with national strategic goals to establish China as a global leader in high-tech and sustainable industries. The 16th Five-Year Plan thus emphasizes not only economic development but also technological self-reliance and industrial strength, expecting SOEs’ active engagement in advanced fields to enhance China’s innovation capacity and international competitiveness. This comprehensive strategy fosters synergy between AI and other transformative technologies across multiple sectors. Integration of AI within new energy and NEV sectors aims to accelerate the shift toward greener, more efficient transport. Advancing new materials and aerospace industries reflects intentions to bolster capabilities in critical areas tied to national security and economic expansion. Cultivating the low-altitude economy, including drone logistics and urban air mobility, represents a forward-looking effort to tap innovative growth domains. In summary, Zhang Yu Zhuo’s guidance sets a clear roadmap for central SOEs during the 16th Five-Year Plan, positioning them as catalysts in China’s pursuit of cutting-edge technological advancement and sustainable development. This strategic direction is poised to strengthen China’s industrial landscape and secure its role in the global technology arena in the years ahead.