The Japan Forum on International Relations

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China possesses world-leading scientific and technological capabilities in many fields. However, China’s strengths are not limited to research and development itself. In recent years, by rapidly turning state-led advanced technologies into products and industrial applications and deploying them in markets and infrastructure, China has strengthened its influence over the formation of international standards, as well as new rules and norms. China is rapidly advancing the “operationalization” of the international order through its technological capabilities.

Against this background, this study group will examine how China is deploying new technologies in emerging domains such as maritime affairs, space, and digital technologies into industries, markets, and infrastructure under state leadership, and how it is linking these efforts to the formation of international standards and rules. It will then analyze how China’s integrated efforts to advance technology, industry, institutions, and order are being received by countries including those in the Global South, and consider how these developments are transforming the international order as a whole.

To achieve these objectives, this study group conducts research and analysis centered on the following members.

Members

Topics

【FY 2026】

2nd Study Session: Why Does China Seek “Opening Up” While Pursuing “Self-Reliance and Self-Strengthening”? The Logic of “Autonomy” and External Cooperation in Science and Technology

September 15, 2026

2nd Study Session: Why Does China Seek “Opening Up” While Pursuing “Self-Reliance and Self-Strengthening”? The Logic of “Autonomy” and External Cooperation in Science and Technology

1st Study Session: China’s Attempt to Govern the “Waters East of Taiwan”: The Domestic Foundations of Changing the Status Quo

July 2, 2026

1st Study Session: China’s Attempt to Govern the “Waters East of Taiwan”: The Domestic Foundations of Changing the Status Quo

JFIR held the first Study Session for JFIR members as well as researchers and practitioners. Chair Chisako Masuo delivered a presentation on the topic above.

International Workshop on China’s Maritime Expansion and the Regional Order

June 5, 2026

International Workshop on China’s Maritime Expansion and the Regional Order

Associate Professor Aravind Yelery of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Associate Professor Tongfi Kim of the Brussels School of Governance (BSoG), both visiting Japan, delivered presentations on the topic above.

1st Regular Meeting

June 5, 2026

1st Regular Meeting

Following opening remarks by Chair Chisako Masuo, Director of Research Wakako Ito provided an overview of the study group, after which members exchanged views on how the study group should proceed.

Research Outputs & Related Publications

【FY 2026】

NOTE: The views in the various proposals, columns and essays posted on this page are the personal views of the authors and do not represent the views of the Japan Forum on International Relations.