By Long Haibo, Research Team on “The Transformation of Innovation-Oriented Policies in the New Era,” Research Department of Innovation Development, DRC

Research Report, No.209, 2020 (Total 5953) 2020-8-26

Abstract: The new material industry has led to technological changes in many related fields and its development bears relevant characteristics. For instance, new technologies have accelerated R&D and the application of new materials, and the development of the new material industry is driven by various elements, especially during the concept designing and leading-in phases. Moreover, monopoly in the international market is becoming intensified. Research findings and practices both show that the new material industry involves many links and is featured by long cycles and complicated technologies with heavy dependency on policy support. At present, it has developed three technological approaches including cutting-edge breakthroughs driven by supplies, rapid upgrading driven by supplies and demands, and integrated innovation driven by demands. However, different technological innovation modes face various problems and the development of some key strategic materials relies on imports to some extent. Therefore, it is necessary for us to focus on key aspects of the innovation-oriented policy transformation of the new material industry including the overall layout, key mechanisms and incentive measures based on features of the technological routes of different materials. Efforts are needed to improve the innovation systems and mechanisms through enhancing scientific research investment mechanisms, research organization approaches, technological results application and talent evaluation and assessment. Besides, more efforts need to focus on inclusiveness and competitiveness, and give full play to the role of functional and innovation-oriented policies.

Keywords: the new material industry, development trend, innovation mode, transformation of policies