BEIJING, May 29 -- China's data-driven development is gaining momentum, bolstered by a three-year action plan that emphasizes the significance of data as a production factor. This initiative aims to enhance the role of data in fostering economic growth and advancing social development. Since the plan's launch, progress has been notable, with efforts focused on integrating data into large-scale socialized production.

The 2024-2026 action plan has been pivotal in this transformative process. Released more than a year ago, it has facilitated a market-oriented approach toward data utilization, as highlighted by the National Data Administration during a recent briefing. The integration of data into various industries is becoming increasingly efficient, and the structure for this development is evolving.

According to Luan Jie, an official with the National Data Administration, more enterprises are entering the data market. Notably, nearly 500 digital technology companies have emerged from central enterprises, showcasing a growing commitment to data-driven strategies. Additionally, approximately 66 percent of China's leading enterprises have actively engaged in data procurement, indicating a broader recognition of data's value.

The application of data across various sectors has yielded significant benefits for enterprises. In agriculture, some planting companies have successfully enhanced crop yields by 5.5 percent through the optimization of fertilization processes aided by data analytics. This example illustrates how data can transform traditional practices, leading to improved productivity.

In the industrial realm, leading enterprises have reportedly shortened their research and development, procurement, and high-end product delivery cycles by more than 30 percent. This achievement has been made possible through the integration of industrial chain data, encompassing key elements such as research and development, logistics, inventory, and pricing information.

Looking ahead, the National Data Administration has expressed its commitment to further strengthen the action plan. Plans to pilot new programs and directly address existing bottlenecks and challenges in data application will be prioritized. This strategic focus aims to ensure the successful implementation of the action plan and to harness the full potential of data in driving China's economic and social advancement.