Chinese Industrial Espionage: An Assessment

China has gained a newfound status as the world-leading scientific superpower, particularly in the fields of AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing. Growing strategic competition in these sectors, and a race for scientific dominance, have motivated many to pursue others’ intellectual property. Recently, many Western countries have accused China of increased industrial espionage activity to aid their scientific innovation and military development. Academic institutions have also been receiving an increasing number of targeted attacks. In response, the UK has voiced intentions to fortify their universities against Chinese espionage. Although industrial espionage has long been used by many governments, China’s actions have come under major scrutiny from the West. This is primarily due to the increased number of plots uncovered across many industrial sectors.

Key Judgment 1. It is likely that Chinese industrial espionage is becoming an increasing threat due to China’s intelligence priorities.

Key Judgment 2. It is likely that China’s interests in Western intellectual property are significantly orientated around improving their military capabilities.

Key Judgment 3. It is likely that industrial and academic collaboration between China and the West will suffer due to increased Chinese industrial espionage.