Digital economy to get a big boost from China\`s 5G expansion efforts

China aims to complete the construction of the 5G network during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period_ when countless progress will be made in network speed and coverage_ while continuing to develop vertical applications_ a senior official said.

The country will further consolidate the fundamentals of digital economy development_ expand consumption and create more new industries in the digital economy era_ Xiao Yaqing_ Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) said on Monday during a press conference after the second plenary meeting of the Fourth Session of the 13th National People s Congress.

China has rolled out 718_000 5G base stations throughout the country_ mostly scattered in large and medium sized cities_ including 330_000 shared among the country s four major telecom operators_ data from the MIIT showed.

More than 600_000 5G base stations were built and put into operation in China in 2020_ a spokesperson from the MIIT said at a press conference in January.

The base station is essential for the layout of 5G. How to build a high-quality 5G network with wide coverage_ fast speed and good service experience at a low cost is an important issue.

Last year_ more than 1_100 5G+ industrial internet projects were launched_ including a 5G-based remote consultation that was used in more than 60 hospitals in 19 provinces. New products and services that require 5G are emerging_ such as 5G+ autonomous driving_ 5G+ smart grid_ and 5G+ online education.

 During the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic last year_ we all saw the support found in the digital economy. Online education_ medical care services_ family interactions_ and online shopping have all been effectively guaranteed through the digital economy_ Xiao said.

 The development of China s digital economy is in a growing phase and the future prospects are very broad_ he added.

Meanwhile_ the minister stressed the importance to prevent any duplication of projects in the newly emerging strategic areas such as microchips and 5G networks.

 The development of new industries should not rush up and should be done in an orderly manner_ in accordance with market regulations and under the rule of law_ Xiao said.