Photo: Jin Liwang/Xinhua/AFP
Eurasia
23/06/2025 12:32
China’s contribution to world-class science continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, consolidating its leadership in global research output. According to the latest Nature Index Research Leaders report, China expanded its lead over the United States in 2024 by more than fourfold, with its “share” — a key measure of contributions to top scientific journals — rising 17.4 per cent to 32.1 last year.
Having first overtaken the US in 2023, China now dominates the index, with eight of the world’s top ten research institutions located in the country. The Chinese Academy of Sciences retained its top position, while Zhejiang University climbed to fourth place.
Asia’s broader scientific rise is also evident. South Korea moved up to seventh, India posted a modest increase, and Singapore rose to 16th, with a significant boost in environmental and health sciences. According to the Global Innovation Index 2024, China now hosts 26 of the top 100 global innovation clusters, more than any other country.
This surge is backed by strong national investment and growing international cooperation, especially within Asia. China-based researchers are increasingly collaborating with regional peers, helping bolster the research capabilities of neighbouring countries. At the same time, Asia’s focus on green technologies and advanced materials has further boosted its global influence.
Western countries, meanwhile, are seeing a steady decline. The United States’ adjusted Share dropped by over 10 per cent in 2024. Other nations such as France, the UK, and Canada recorded decreases of at least 7 per cent. Major institutions like Germany’s Max Planck Society and France’s CNRS have fallen in the rankings, while MIT and Stanford also slipped.
Harvard University remained in second place but saw a steep 17.5 per cent drop. “The data reflect a profound shift in the global research landscape,” said Nature Index editor Simon Baker, noting that China’s momentum is now outpacing the West, particularly in chemistry and physical sciences.
