Beijing, China – China will set up a national data authority, downsize staff at central state institutions and strengthen its science ministry, according to a policy plan unveiled this week, in a sweeping revamp as Beijing pushes for tech sector self-reliance.
A broad restructuring document announced by China’s cabinet on Tuesday intends to focus the Ministry of Science and Technology’s resources on coordinating “scientific and technological achievements.”
Beijing will also set up a national data administration responsible for overseeing the digital economy, as well as slash staffing at the country’s central state institutions by five percent.
The freed-up headcount will be reallocated toward “key areas and important work,” according to the plan.
The restructuring comes as China pours resources into its manufacturing and research capabilities in the face of tightened restrictions on homegrown tech companies by the United States and its Western allies.
China’s rubber-stamp parliament is expected to approve the plan at its annual national meeting this week.
The science ministry will delegate its existing responsibilities for rural and social development to other ministries, and instead “optimize its management of the whole chain of science and technology innovation,” according to the plan.
The new national data administration will coordinate the use of digital data, including in “smart cities”, it added.
The plan also replaces China’s existing banking and insurance regulator with a new body incorporating some functions from its central bank and securities watchdog, strengthening oversight over the financial sector.
