China surpasses United States in research and development spending

11 articles · Updated · The Conversation · Apr 24

China’s R&D investment has exceeded US$1 trillion, overtaking the U.S. by purchasing power, according to a 2026 OECD report.
This milestone follows China’s recent lead in scientific publications, highly cited research, and patent filings, marking a structural shift in global scientific leadership.
U.S. federal R&D investment has declined, raising concerns about future scientific capacity, talent retention, and economic growth as China’s ascent challenges longstanding American dominance.

How is the global flow of scientific talent shifting between the U.S., China, and Europe?

Is the U.S. facing a 'Reverse Sputnik' moment for its global scientific leadership?

Will the decline in public research cripple the innovation pipeline for U.S. industry?

Are U.S. security policies harming its own scientific enterprise more than its rivals?

How will China overcome its dependency on foreign chips to lead in AI and quantum tech?

Can new U.S. tax incentives for private R&D prevent a long-term scientific brain drain?