China Targets 2035 for Global Talent Leadership, Intensifying US Competition

Beijing – Chinese President Xi Jinping has articulated an ambitious goal for China to achieve a leading position in global talent competition by 2035, a strategic objective announced to the Central Committee. This declaration underscores China's intensified focus on human capital as a critical component of its national development and technological self-reliance. As noted by Jeremy Neufeld in a recent tweet, > "Xi Jinping announced to the Central Committee the goal to be competitive in talent competition by 2035. Fortunately, the US has a natural advantage in this competition, but it’s one we can't afford to lose."

This 2035 target is integral to China's broader "socialist modernization" agenda, emphasizing the development of "new quality productive forces" through advancements in science and technology. Official statements and policy documents, including the drafting of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), highlight education, basic research, and strategic fields like artificial intelligence and quantum computing as key areas for talent cultivation. China aims to be a global hub for innovation, attracting and nurturing top-tier scientific and technological professionals domestically.

Despite these aggressive efforts, China faces significant hurdles in attracting diverse global talent, particularly non-Chinese professionals. While Beijing has shown success in encouraging overseas Chinese students to return, its appeal to international researchers without prior links to China remains limited. Demographic shifts also present long-term challenges, necessitating a strategic focus on maximizing the potential of its existing workforce and targeted talent acquisition.

The United States, acknowledged for its "natural advantage" in this global talent race, faces mounting pressure to maintain its lead. Analysts, including those cited in RollCall, emphasize the urgent need for a comprehensive US innovation strategy to counter China's state-driven approach. The US currently produces millions fewer STEM graduates annually than China, highlighting a critical skills gap that could undermine its competitive edge in key technological domains.

The competition for talent is increasingly viewed as a central battleground for global influence and national security. Both nations are investing heavily in their respective talent ecosystems, with China's long-term strategic planning pushing the US to adopt a more coordinated and robust approach to developing and retaining its high-skilled workforce, particularly in critical emerging technologies. The outcome of this strategic competition will significantly shape the future global technological and economic landscape.