China’s metrology drive may redefine global tech leadership

In a recent article, Farmingdale-Observer highlights that metrology may not often be in the spotlight, but it plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role in powering today’s technology. China’s recent strategic shift to take the lead in this foundational science signals a calculated bid for technological dominance - one that goes well beyond the more visible arenas of AI and semiconductor competition.

In May 2025, China unveiled a roadmap to become the world leader in metrology by 2030, aiming to develop over 50 core measurement technologies and establish 20 world-class measurement standards. Controlling these standards means guiding the pace and direction of global technological progress.

Central to China’s plan is a focus on quantum metrology, which exploits quantum physics to achieve unprecedented precision. Applications include quantum gyroscopes for GPS-free navigation and optical frequency combs that measure light frequencies with extraordinary accuracy. As technologies shrink to atomic scales, such precision becomes indispensable for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing.

This push coincides with escalating tech tensions between China and the United States. In response to US restrictions on advanced semiconductor exports citing national security, China has limited rare earth exports crucial to electronics, defense, and clean energy sectors. This technological cold war elevates metrology from a niche science to a pillar of scientific sovereignty.

Recognizing this, the US has invested heavily in metrology research through its CHIPS for America programme, acknowledging that measurement precision is vital to semiconductor manufacturing excellence.

China’s strategy also includes expanding influence in international standards organisations historically dominated by Western nations. By developing innovative reference materials and instruments, China aims to set new global measurement standards in areas such as climate monitoring, healthcare, trade, and defence technology.

Ultimately, the race for metrology leadership is a high-stakes battle over who will define the rules of technological innovation - deciding which technologies will flourish and which will be left behind. As this hidden competition intensifies, metrology’s role as a determinant of global tech leadership becomes increasingly clear, perhaps more so than AI or quantum computing alone.

By Naila Huseynova