In the face of growing global uncertainty, fueled by U.S. tariff measures, Chinese A-share listed companies are increasing investment in independent research and development to enhance their technological innovation and product competitiveness, while also mitigating external risks.
The A-share market refers to the segment of the Chinese stock market where companies are listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.
One of the companies has made significant strides in advancing the domestic production of semiconductor laser light sources. By focusing on promoting breakthroughs in upstream components, the firm aims to gain control over its core component manufacturing, reducing its reliance on foreign suppliers.
Similarly, a CNC (computer numerical control) machinery company has reinforced its long-term commitment to self-developed key functional components. Through localizing its supply chain and promoting homegrown alternatives, the company has effectively reduced its reliance on foreign core component technologies, mitigating the risks associated with such dependencies.
Another company has expressed confidence in maintaining its competitiveness despite the recent U.S. tariff hikes. With its tech and price advantages, it is poised to capture market share previously dominated by U.S. products.
"Thanks to the long-term increase in research and development investment by A-share listed companies and their commitment to independent innovation, we have gradually broken technological monopolies in many key areas. This has not only reduced our reliance on foreign technologies but also strengthened our ability to respond to external risks with our own innovation capabilities, building confidence in addressing international tariff barriers. Driven by innovation, A-share listed companies are building global competitiveness and will continue to accelerate their efforts to gain influence in more emerging sectors, with the potential to reshape the global high-tech industry landscape," said Yang Chao, chief strategy analyst at China Galaxy Securities, in a recent interview with China Central Television in Beijing.
Chinese tech companies boost research investment to cope with external shocks
The sixth edition of Shanghai's iconic "5·5 Shopping Festival" kicked off on Thursday, alongside the 2025 International Consumption Season, in a renewed push to boost domestic demand and revitalize consumer spending.
Co-hosted by the Ministry of Commerce, China Media Group (CMG), and the Shanghai Municipal Government, the event promises a vibrant mix of promotional campaigns, themed events, and immersive retail experiences across the city's commercial districts.
Centering on the theme "Quality Consumption, Demand Creation," the festival targets four key consumer sectors: services, big-ticket purchases, inbound spending, and emerging consumption trends. It also highlights new economic frontiers such as the debut economy, the silver economy, the nighttime economy, and the ticket-based economy—aimed at unlocking consumer potential and enhancing Shanghai's commercial vitality through new product launches, senior-friendly services, dynamic nightlife, and spending on cultural activities.
The festival launch ceremony also included the Fourth International Consumption Center City Forum. In a video address, Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, expressed hopes for deeper cooperation between Shanghai and Dubai as the two metropolises mark the 25th anniversary of their sister-city relationship. He emphasized their shared vision for urban development and prosperity.
Another highlight of the festival was the debut of the "CMG Select: Shanghai Pavilion." Combining celebrity hosts, culture, art, and premium brands, the pavilion leverages CMG's influential media platform to energize consumer activity and support Shanghai's drive to become a world-class consumption center.
The shopping festival will run through the end of June, with over 1,000 companies and thousands of brands set to launch more than 1,000 special events.
The 2025 International Consumption Season is a flagship event under the "Shop in China" campaign. Jointly launched by the Ministry of Commerce and five other government departments, the initiative will mobilize regions across the country to spotlight premium international and domestic goods. It will feature product debuts, first launches, and consumer-friendly measures to help both domestic shoppers and inbound tourists access high-quality global merchandise and enjoy top-tier services.
Shanghai launches major shopping festival to boost consumer spending
