CHINA is now the WORLD'S LEADER in research on almost 90% of 'critical technologies'

The claim that China is now the world's leader in research on almost 90% of 'critical technologies' is based primarily on data from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute's (ASPI) Critical Technology Tracker. ASPI tracks 44 critical technology areas spanning defense, space, robotics, energy, environment, biotechnology, AI, advanced materials, and quantum technologies. According to ASPI's latest reports, China leads in research output and institutional strength in about 37 out of these 44 technologies, which corresponds to roughly 84%.aspi.org.auaspi.org.auASPI’s Critical Technology Tracker Several reputable news outlets including Nikkei Asia, Reuters, The Guardian, and Al Jazeera have reported on this finding, confirming China's dominant position in most of these fields.asia.nikkei.comasia.nikkei.comChina now global leader in 90% of critical tech research: think tankaljazeera.comaljazeera.comChina beating West in race for critical technologies, report says The claim is consistent across multiple independent reports citing ASPI's data.

However, the exact figure varies slightly depending on interpretation and rounding; some sources say 'around 90%', others specify '37 out of 44' technologies. Additionally, while China leads in research volume and institutional capacity, leadership in research does not necessarily equate to technological deployment or commercial dominance. The US and other countries still lead or compete strongly in a few critical areas. Moreover, ASPI is an Australian government-backed think tank with a focus on strategic policy; while its methodology is transparent and respected, it is one perspective among others.

In summary, the core factual assertion that China leads global research in nearly 90% of critical technology fields tracked by ASPI is well-supported by credible sources. Minor nuances about exact percentages and the implications of 'leadership' in research exist but do not materially undermine the claim's accuracy.