Thomas Daniels
Beijing has unveiled a comprehensive two-year strategy aimed at integrating blockchain technology into its urban infrastructure and key industrial sectors, reinforcing its commitment to digital transformation and economic modernization.
Announced on April 29, the “Beijing Blockchain Innovation and Application Development Action Plan” is a collaborative initiative involving several municipal bodies, including the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, the Zhongguancun Administrative Committee, and the Cyberspace Administration Office. The plan outlines objectives to be achieved by 2027, focusing on the development of blockchain infrastructure and applications across various industries.
The strategy emphasizes the creation of blockchain software solutions targeting advancements in cryptography, confidential computing, and distributed systems. It also includes the establishment of national blockchain hub nodes and platforms for trusted digital identities and distributed data directories. Key sectors identified for blockchain integration encompass healthcare, education, artificial intelligence, financial services, and transportation, aiming to enhance efficiency, data security, and service innovation.
A notable aspect of the plan is the “one blockchain, one network, one platform” principle, which seeks to unify blockchain development efforts. By 2027, the initiative aims to implement dedicated blockchain chips, privacy protection features, cross-chain interoperability, and distributed networking capabilities. The goal is to achieve petabyte-scale trusted node storage, large-scale blockchain interoperability, and a trusted identity system capable of supporting hundreds of millions of users.
This initiative builds upon Beijing’s previous efforts to foster innovation in the digital economy, including the release of the “Web3 Innovation and Development White Paper” in May 2023. The white paper recognized Web3 technology as a significant trend in the evolution of the internet industry and outlined plans to establish Beijing as a hub for digital economic innovation, with an annual investment of at least 100 million yuan ($14 million) allocated through 2025.
Beijing’s strategic focus on blockchain technology aligns with broader national initiatives such as the Blockchain-based Service Network, which serves as a foundational infrastructure for developing and managing blockchain applications across China. This infrastructure facilitates deployment of blockchain solutions in compliance with national regulations.
As Beijing advances its blockchain agenda, the city positions itself at the forefront of digital infrastructure development, aiming to leverage blockchain technology to drive economic growth, enhance public services, and solidify its status as a leader in technological innovation.
