On April 21, a press conference held by the State Council Information Office revealed that China’s value-added industrial output above the designated size rose 6.1% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, with all 31 provincial-level regions achieving positive growth. Industry contributed nearly 40% to overall economic growth, showing steady and positive performance.

High-tech manufacturing stood out with a sharp 12.5% year-on-year increase in added value. Output of industrial robots and integrated circuits jumped 33.2% and 24.3% respectively, as AI, drones and other emerging products accelerated market application. Total telecom business revenue grew 8.3%, while software industry revenue rose 11.7%, with digital infrastructure and information technology becoming new growth engines.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology stated it would speed up the formulation of computing-power and electricity coordination standards, and promote deep integration of computing power, new energy and traditional industries. Institutions noted the industrial recovery exceeded expectations, with a clear focus on high-tech and digital economy. Manufacturing investment is expected to continue recovering in the second quarter. Sectors including electronics, machinery and power equipment have seen intensive institutional research, with the national social security fund holding heavy positions in 52 related companies with a market value exceeding 23 billion yuan.