On January 6, 2025, the National Data Bureau (NDB) held the press conference to further explain the details and most concern topics for the newly issued Guidelines for Building National Data Infrastructure (hereafter referred to as the Guidelines) in early January by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), NDB and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
Unlike traditional digital infrastructure, which primarily focuses on hardware and software technologies, data infrastructure is defined from the perspective of technological and economic functions. Its core objective is to unlock the value of data as a key resource. It represents a new type of infrastructure designed to integrate data aggregation, processing, circulation, application, operation, and security services into a unified system. This approach integrates hardware, software, algorithms, standards, and institutional frameworks into a cohesive ecosystem.
Despite its potential, China’s data infrastructure is still in its early stages of development and faces several significant challenges: 
- Insufficient data circulation and utilization
- Data security and privacy protection issues
- Underdeveloped application scenarios
- Unclear development direction and lack of demonstration cases
To address these challenges, the Guidelines outline ambitious goals for building data infrastructure:
- Enhancing Data Circulation and Utilization
Establish facilities that support a unified national data market, ensuring secure and seamless data flow. China envisions creating a collaborative, efficient, and trustworthy public service system for large-scale data circulation and utilization.
- Building a High-Quality Computing Power Foundation
Develop a diverse, efficient, intelligent, on-demand, and eco-friendly computing power supply system to meet various data processing needs.
- Strengthening Network Support
Construct a high-speed, reliable, and dynamically adjustable data transmission network that allows flexible access and ubiquitous connectivity.
- Improving Security Measures
Establish a comprehensive, dynamic, and inherently secure protection framework to safeguard data assets.
- Expanding Application Scenarios
Promote digital transformation and upgrading of traditional industries while empowering emerging sectors, such as artificial intelligence, with data-driven solutions.
Foreign stakeholders are advised to be aware that, the release of the Guidelines reflects China’s strategic intent to build a robust and forward-looking data infrastructure that aligns with national strategic goals. By addressing foundational challenges and setting clear objectives, the Guidelines aim to unleash the transformative potential of data across industries, enhance digital sovereignty, and position China as a leader in the global digital economy.
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