Summary of Key Points
On July 9th, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) of the State Council launched a special initiative called "Scenarios in All Aspects" for central state-owned enterprises (SOEs), releasing the first batch of ten landmark scenarios (covering areas such as artificial intelligence, green energy, and large-scale hydropower projects). The plan is to make approximately 100 scenario lists available and establish a regular cultivation database. The core of this initiative is for SOEs to share their own resources—such as business needs, infrastructure, and data—and invite private enterprises, small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), research institutions, and other stakeholders to provide solutions. This collaborative model aims to promote the development of emerging industries, stimulate private innovation, accelerate industrial upgrading, and contribute to the construction of a modern industrial system.
1. What is "SOE Scenario Openness"? Why is it being implemented now?
In simple terms, "scenario openness" means that SOEs provide their business needs as a platform for others to develop solutions. For example, if an SOE wants to implement an AI-powered inspection system for a hydropower station but does not have mature AI technology, it can invite private enterprises to offer AI algorithms or equipment solutions.
Why is this being done now? Because SOEs possess valuable assets such as critical infrastructure (power grids, hydropower stations, large factories) and industry-specific data. Previously, these resources were often used internally. By sharing them, they can:
- Provide a platform for private enterprises to apply their technology (which may lack market access);
- Enhance the SOE's own capabilities by leveraging external expertise;
- Drive innovation throughout the entire industrial chain, as working together is more effective than acting alone.
2. What are the first batch of scenarios being opened? How does it work?
The first ten landmark scenarios cover several popular areas:
- Artificial Intelligence: Applications of AI in industries and healthcare;
- Power and Carbon Management: Integration of computing power, electricity supply, and carbon emissions management (e.g., how to make data centers more energy-efficient);
- Green Energy Production and Storage: Methods for producing, storing, and using renewable energy (e.g., how to store wind and solar power);
- Large-Scale Hydropower Projects: Application of new technologies in major projects like the Three Gorges Dam.
The specific steps are as follows:
1. SOEs compile their scenario requirements and create a list (about 100 initially);
2. Establish a "scenario cultivation database" to share these requirements;
3. Various stakeholders (private enterprises, research institutions) can propose solutions for these scenarios;
4. Collaborate to achieve results—e.g., private enterprises can implement their technology in SOE scenarios, and both parties can benefit financially or promote industrial development.
As Deputy Director Pang Xiaogang put it, "SOEs provide the scenarios, society provides the solutions, and together we create outcomes." It's not just about the SOEs; everyone is involved in the process.
3. Who benefits from scenario openness? What changes will it bring?
For SOEs:
- New growth opportunities: They can expand into emerging industries like AI and green energy and generate additional revenue;
- Enhance competitiveness by promoting their technology standards to global levels (e.g., China's hydropower and 5G technologies).
For private enterprises/SMEs:
- A testing ground for new technologies: They can develop products based on SOE requirements, reducing the risk of failure;
- Lower innovation costs since the scenarios represent real market needs.
For the entire industry:
- A bridge between technology development and market application: New technologies can be quickly implemented by connecting with SOE demands;
- Establishment of industry standards for export (e.g., China's high-speed rail and nuclear power technologies).
For the country:
- Development of "new productive forces": The use of new technologies and industries drives economic growth, and scenario openness facilitates this process;
- Construction of a modern industrial system through coordinated development among all stakeholders.
4. What has been done previously? What are the safeguards in place?
This is not the first time SOEs have shared their scenarios:
- Previous initiatives include the "AI+" initiative, which has led to the deployment of over 800 AI applications;
- 33 national-level industry alliances promoting innovation across the supply chain;
- 190 pilot testing platforms providing services for new products (e.g., private enterprises can test their products on SOE platforms).
Safeguard measures include:
- Priority procurement for private enterprises' "first units" (equipment, materials, software);
- Open-source initiatives like the "AI Renewal Community" offering computing power, models, and data to SMEs and research institutions;
- An open competition where solutions from any entity (large or small) can be considered.
5. What do experts think? What is the policy background?
Policy context:
- This year's government work report explicitly encourages SOEs to lead in sharing application scenarios;
- In November last year, the State Council issued a document requiring SOEs to share scenarios with private enterprises and SMEs;
- In February this year, SASAC deepened the "AI+" initiative, emphasizing the need for precise integration of AI with core business activities.
Expert opinions:
- Wen Bin from Minsheng Bank: This initiative combines national efforts (SOEs) with market-driven innovation (private enterprises);
- Researcher Zhou Lisha: SOE scenarios are at a system-level, which can reduce overall innovation risks and create a collaborative environment;
- Deputy Director Gui Gang: All stakeholders are welcome to participate, as scenario resources will become a fertile ground for new productive forces.
Conclusion
In essence, the "SOE Scenario Openness" initiative is about sharing resources and achieving mutual benefit. By collaborating, SOEs and stakeholders can develop emerging industries. For the general public, this means more advanced technologies (e.g., smarter grids, greener energy) will become part of our lives, contributing to a more dynamic economy. After all, industrial development is always the result of collective effort.