Strengthening the capacity of independent innovation and building an innovative Henan

To fully implement the "Decision of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council on Implementing the Outline of Science and Technology Planning to Enhance the Ability of Independent Innovation" (Zhong Fa [2006] No. 4), the "National Medium- and Long-Term Scientific and Technological Development Plan (2006-2020)" (Guo Fa [2005] No. 44), and the State Council’s Circular on Implementing a Series of Supporting Policies for the National Medium- and Long-Term Plan for Science and Technology Development (2006-2020) (Guo Fa [2006] No. 6), the goal is to advance the strategy of independent innovation and leapfrog development. This will enhance Henan's ability to innovate and build a modern, competitive, and sustainable economy. The following decisions are made accordingly.

I. Implementing the Strategy of Independent Innovation and Leap-Frog Development: An Inevitable Step Toward an Innovative Henan and the Rise of the Central Plains

1. The Strategic Significance of Building an Innovative Henan. As the global scientific and technological revolution accelerates, innovation has become a key driver of economic and social progress. It plays a crucial role in enhancing national and regional competitiveness. Establishing an innovative country is a major strategic decision by the central government, aimed at promoting scientific development and achieving socialist modernization. For Henan to realize its vision of a well-off society and the rise of the Central Plains, it must embrace independent innovation as a core strategy, shift from resource-based growth to technology-driven development, and place innovation at the heart of economic and social progress. Despite having a GDP exceeding 1 trillion yuan, challenges such as outdated industrial structures, low technological levels, and environmental constraints persist. Thus, improving innovation capabilities is essential for sustainable development and long-term prosperity.

2. The Guiding Principles for Building an Innovative Henan. Adhering to Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of the "Three Represents," the province will be guided by the concept of scientific development, implementing policies that emphasize "independent innovation, key breakthroughs, supporting development, and leading the future." The focus is on advancing science and education, opening up, sustainable development, and talent empowerment. By implementing the "Outline of the Medium- and Long-Term Scientific and Technological Development Plan of Henan Province (2006-2020)," the province aims to transform its economy from resource-dependent to innovation-driven, ensuring balanced and coordinated development.

3. The Overall Goals for an Innovative Henan: By 2010, the province aims to increase R&D investment to 1.5% of GDP, raise the contribution of scientific and technological progress to 50%, and have high-tech industries account for 25% of total industrial output. By 2020, these figures should reach 2.5% and 60%, respectively, with high-tech industries making up 30% of industrial output. Henan seeks to position itself among the top provinces in terms of innovation capability and technological strength.

II. Key Tasks for Building an Innovative Henan

4. Implementing the "Planning Outline" comprehensively. This plan aligns with national strategies and emphasizes strengthening innovation through research, collaboration, and addressing key developmental challenges. It serves as a guide for long-term economic and social planning, focusing on major projects and technological breakthroughs.

5. Prioritizing High-Tech Industries. Developing high-tech sectors like electronics, biotechnology, and new materials is vital for industrial upgrading. Projects will support high-growth enterprises, expand clusters, and enhance competitiveness. Efforts will also be made to establish high-tech industrial zones and promote innovation ecosystems.

6. Supporting Agricultural Innovation. Modern agricultural technologies, including crop improvement and efficient resource management, will be promoted to boost productivity and food security. Rural infrastructure and extension systems will be strengthened to ensure widespread adoption of innovations.

7. Upgrading Traditional Industries. Through technological advancements and collaboration between industry, academia, and research institutions, traditional sectors like manufacturing and agriculture will evolve into high-value, knowledge-based industries.

8. Addressing Social and Environmental Challenges. Focusing on energy, environment, and public health, the province will invest in clean technologies, resource efficiency, and sustainable practices to reduce dependency on finite resources and improve quality of life.

9. Boosting the Service Sector via Innovation. Leveraging IT and digital tools, traditional services will be transformed into modern, tech-driven sectors. This includes logistics, finance, education, and healthcare, aiming to enhance competitiveness and user experience.

10. Advancing Basic Research and Cutting-Edge Technologies. Emphasizing originality and applied research, the province will invest in areas like biotechnology and advanced materials, ensuring long-term technical readiness and leadership in key fields.

III. Strengthening Institutional Mechanisms to Support Innovation

11. Building Regional Innovation Systems. Reforms will focus on integrating resources, fostering collaboration, and creating a dynamic innovation ecosystem where enterprises, universities, and research institutes work together.

12. Encouraging Enterprise-Led Innovation. Enterprises will be supported through policy incentives, funding, and partnerships with research institutions. This will help them become leaders in R&D, innovation, and commercialization.

13. Reforming Research Institutions. Research organizations will transition toward market-oriented models, with flexible funding and performance-based evaluations to enhance efficiency and relevance.

14. Promoting Innovation in Higher Education. Universities will integrate teaching and research, emphasizing innovation and practical skills. Collaborations with industry will drive research and talent development.

15. Cultivating Talent for Innovation. A robust talent system will be established, including training programs, recognition mechanisms, and incentives for both domestic and international experts.

16. Enhancing Technology Absorption and Re-Innovation. While importing advanced technologies, the focus will be on adapting and improving them to meet local needs. International cooperation and overseas research centers will be encouraged.

17. Strengthening Local Science and Technology Work. Cities and counties will be supported in developing high-tech industries, upgrading existing sectors, and promoting agricultural modernization through targeted assistance and infrastructure development.

18. Reforming Science and Technology Management. Improved coordination, transparent evaluation, and performance-based funding will ensure efficient use of resources and better alignment with strategic goals.

IV. Creating a Supportive Policy Environment for Innovation

19. Increasing Financial Investment. Government funding for science and technology will be increased, alongside private sector contributions, to boost overall R&D spending and create a diversified innovation ecosystem.

20. Implementing Tax Policies to Encourage Innovation. Tax deductions, accelerated depreciation, and exemptions for high-tech enterprises will be introduced to reduce costs and stimulate investment in R&D.

21. Supporting Innovation Through Financial Instruments. Venture capital, credit guarantees, and technology property rights trading will be developed to provide financial support and encourage risk-taking.

22. Using Government Procurement to Promote Innovation. A certification system for innovative products will be established, with preference given to locally developed solutions in public procurement.

23. Developing Science and Technology Infrastructure. High-tech zones, research centers, and shared platforms will be expanded to support innovation and technology transfer.

24. Implementing Intellectual Property Policies. Policies will encourage the creation, protection, and commercialization of intellectual property, ensuring that innovation is rewarded and protected.

V. Strengthening Leadership and Promoting Innovation

25. Enhancing Leadership in Innovation. Provincial and local governments will prioritize science and technology, ensuring effective implementation of policies and addressing key challenges through continuous monitoring and action.

26. Improving Innovation Work Mechanisms. Innovation performance will be integrated into leadership evaluations, with clear targets and accountability measures to ensure progress.

27. Enhancing Public Scientific Literacy. Education and outreach programs will be expanded to cultivate a culture of innovation among all citizens, from students to farmers and urban residents.

28. Cultivating an Innovation Culture. The spirit of innovation, teamwork, and openness will be promoted, recognizing and rewarding those who contribute to scientific and technological advancement.

29. Implementation of the Decision. All provinces and departments are urged to develop their own implementation plans based on this decision, ensuring the successful realization of the vision for an innovative Henan.