China's 15th Five-Year Plan Passed — AI and Quantum Dominate National Strategy

China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) passed the National People's Congress on March 5, 2026, placing artificial intelligence at the center of national strategy — AI is mentioned 52 times, up from 11 in the 14th FYP. The plan introduces a sweeping 'AI+ action plan' targeting integration of AI across 90% of China's economy by 2030, with the digital economy reaching 12.5% of GDP. The new planning term 模芯云用 ('model-chip-cloud-application') appeared for the first time, reflecting a strategic pivot from chip manufacturing metrics to AI deployment and application metrics. Robotics and embodied AI received dedicated national standards, with China leading IEC global standards for elder-care robots. At least 7% average annual R&D spending growth is pledged, while quantum computing, 6G, and brain-computer interfaces are named as strategic future industries.