Torch Porgram

Launched in August 1988, the Torch Porgram is the most important program China has undertaken to develop its hi-tech industry program. The missions envisioned by the Program include organizing and undertaking projects for the development of hi-tech products with an advanced technology level and good economic benefits; establishing hi-tech industrial development zones throughout the country; and exploring management systems and operation mechanisms for research projects in new technology fields, such as new materials, biotechnology, electronic information, and energy-saving technology.

Since 1996, the Chinese government has chosen and given financial aid to a number of significant research projects from those covered in the Torch Program, and in collaboration with the local governments, selected and supported a number of high-tech enterprises (groups) involved in the Program in terms of market, information, capital, management and services. In addition, a software industry base under the Program has been established to promote software research and foster small- and medium-sized software enterprises.