China Sees Record Growth in Software Copyright Registrations, Fuelled by AI and Emerging Tech
China achieved a record high in computer software copyright registrations in 2024, with the number surpassing 2.8 million, according to the China Copyright Protection Center. The figures highlight rapid technological development and growing innovation across various sectors.
Software Registrations Reach 2.827 Million
In 2024, China registered a total of 2.827 million computer software copyrights—an increase of 330,000 compared to the previous year. This represents a 13 percent year-on-year rise and marks the highest number ever recorded.
Among the most notable areas of growth were voice recognition, natural language processing, and intelligent analytics. These categories saw growth rates of over 30 percent, far exceeding the overall average. The increase reflects China’s deepening focus on artificial intelligence and advanced data technologies.
Emerging Sectors Drive Growth
Software registrations in emerging industries such as biotechnology, the low-altitude economy, the Internet of Things (IoT), and humanoid robotics surged by more than 40 percent. This acceleration indicates that the application of next-generation technologies is fuelling the expansion of high-tech industries and injecting momentum into China’s economic growth.
This trend suggests a shift towards innovation-led development, with digital tools playing a larger role in shaping future industries.
Key Industries See Steady Gains in China
Traditional sectors also experienced solid growth. Software copyright registrations in manufacturing, education, healthcare, finance, transportation, information security, electricity, and e-commerce increased significantly. These sectors registered 77,000 more software titles than in 2023, boosting their collective share of the total from 30 percent to 32 percent.
The manufacturing industry led the way, accounting for 8 percent of all registrations. This underlines its resilience and importance as a key driver of China’s digital transformation and broader economic stability.
China’s record in software copyright registrations points to a maturing tech ecosystem and a stronger push towards digitisation across the economy.
with inputs from Reuters