China surpasses US in research spending – the consequences extend far beyond scientific ranking and clout

Scientific innovation has been driving US economic growth for decades. Losing that edge means losing access to the technologies and brainpower that come with it.

By: Caroline Wagner, The Ohio State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 24, 2026

Words: 1,398

Last Updated: 3 months ago

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By Caroline Wagner, The Ohio State University

China’s rapid rise in science has hit a milestone. The country’s investment in research and development has reached parity with – and by purchasing power measures has surpassed – that of the United States, according to a March 2026 report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Both nations have crossed the US$1 trillion threshold on research spending.

For 80 years, the U.S. operated the …

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