China’s Digital Evolution: Internet Infrastructure, Connectivity, and IPv6 Leadership

China’s unprecedented digital transformation continues to reshape its economy and society, supported by long-term planning and cutting-edge policies. Through its ‘Digital China’ initiative, the country has implemented systematic development strategies under successive Five-Year Plans. The 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) focused on accelerating 5G rollout, expanding next-generation networks, and developing national data centres to fuel economic modernization. Looking ahead, the forthcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) aims to foster technological self-reliance, deepen digital services trade, and bolster international collaboration to achieve global recognition as a network-strong nation.

Unrivalled Progress in Internet Adoption and Connectivity

China’s journey toward universal Internet connectivity exhibits impressive results. By 2024, 92% of the population had internet access, driven by near-complete 4G and 5G mobile network penetration. Urban-to-rural connectivity gaps have also narrowed, with 66.5% of rural residents online in 2023, compared to 57% in 2021. Internet affordability is another triumph; a basic mobile plan costs merely 0.5% of GNI per capita, significantly below the regional average of 1.25%.

Furthermore, China has established 13 active Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), enhancing local traffic exchange and reducing reliance on international links. Top IXPs like CHN-IX, CNIX, and SHIXP play pivotal roles in optimizing connectivity nationwide. The government’s expanding focus on IXPs reflects its strategy to fortify domestic digital infrastructure and network resilience against potential global disruptions.

Data Centres and Environmental Sustainability

To address growing environmental concerns, China has adopted the ‘Eastern Data and Western Computing’ initiative. By relocating data centres to the western region, the plan integrates renewable energy and natural cooling systems, cutting emissions by an estimated 16-20% by 2030. These innovations are expected to generate vast economic returns, valued at approximately USD 53 billion. With 41 active data centres driving operations, the strategic shift towards sustainable practices underscores China’s long-term commitment to greener technology and optimized resource allocation.

China’s domestic Content Distribution Network (CDN) market further showcases its leadership in digital infrastructure. Dominated by companies such as Alibaba Cloud and Tencent Cloud, rigorous regulatory frameworks ensure domestic content security while fostering technological advancements that establish China’s dominance in this sector.

Leadership in IPv6 Deployment

China is setting global benchmarks in IPv6 adoption. By September 2025, 77% of Internet users, equivalent to 865 million people, were actively using IPv6. Major operators have undertaken large-scale IPv6 integration, modernizing backbone, metro, and mobile networks, alongside developing IPv6-ready 5G infrastructure.

One standout example is the futuristic Xiong’an New Area, designed as China’s prototype for IPv6-led smart cities. This city operates over 1 million IoT terminals per square kilometre, with an energy-efficient cloud service architecture that avoids outdated NAT systems, ensuring scalability and seamless operations. Looking ahead to 2030, China plans to integrate IPv6 with emerging technologies like AI, satellite networks, and autonomous systems, further solidifying its position as a digital powerhouse.

Strengthening Global Connectivity

As a major hub in the global Internet ecosystem, China actively invests in its submarine cable network. Global systems like the Asia-Pacific Gateway (APG) and Trans-Pacific Express (TPE) connect China’s key landing stations in Shanghai, Shantou, and Xiamen. Chinese companies, including HMN Tech, are now leading in deploying and maintaining these underwater networks, ensuring secure data exchange with minimal external dependence.

Additionally, China’s cybersecurity initiatives and collaborations with organizations such as APNIC exemplify its growing commitment to safe, interoperable digital systems. This partnership not only strengthens its domestic Internet ecosystem but also contributes to resilient regional and international digital frameworks.

China’s consolidated efforts in network infrastructure, Internet inclusion, and environmental sustainability reflect a robust strategy to maintain its competitive advantage globally. With IPv6 expansion, 5G integration, and cutting-edge data solutions laying the groundwork, the country is well-positioned to meet the next generation’s digital demands while contributing to a secure and scalable global Internet infrastructure.