China - October 30, 2024 China speeds up 5G deployment across industries (Voice_over) With its rapidly expanding 5G infrastructure, China is intensifying efforts to incorporate the technology into a wide array of industries. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, there are currently more than four million 5G mobile base stations nationwide, accounting for some 32 percent of the total. Thanks to that fast-growing network, more and more Chinese companies are leveraging 5G technology for innovation, especially in the fields of artificial intelligence and the low-altitude economy. And in industries like manufacturing, it’s already making a big difference, with 5G-powered robotic arms helping to lift-up efficiency and productivity. (Sound_bite) Wu Zhengxiang, vice president, Viewshine Metering Ltd.: "We have cut the number of workers from 50 to five in each production line, and the production efficiency has increased from 2,500 units per shift to 3,600 units per shift. We plan to transform from the original traditional production mode into our current 5G smart factory in two years." (Voice_over) Going forward, officials say they hope to replicate the success seen in the industrial, mining, and energy sectors across even more industries. (Sound_bite) Zhao Zhiguo, Chief Engineer, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology: "The number of '5G+Industrial Internet' projects has exceeded 14,000. Next, we will carry out the 'set-sail' upgrading plan of large-scale 5G application, deeply cooperate with enterprises in vertical industries, and continue to explore new application scenarios." (Voice_over) Over the past five years, the commercialization of China’s 5G network is estimated to have directly and indirectly contributed to an economic output of around 2.7 trillion U.S. dollars. [Restriction: No access Chinese mainland]