China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has unveiled an upgraded implementation plan for its "5G + Industrial Internet 512 Project," aiming to establish 10,000 5G-enabled factories by 2027, as reported by the United Daily News on January 1. The initiative seeks to integrate "5G + Industrial Internet" deeply into key sectors of the economy, enhancing capabilities in five areas: network infrastructure, technological products, integrated applications, industrial ecosystems, and public services. Additionally, at least 20 pilot cities will be designated to advance integrated applications of the "5G + Industrial Internet" concept.
As of now, China boasts over 4 million 5G base stations, with its industrial 5G infrastructure expanding rapidly. More than 17,000 "5G + Industrial Internet" projects have been initiated, covering all 41 major industrial categories, and 700 high-standard 5G-enabled factories have been completed. While officials highlight that the initiative has entered a large-scale development phase, challenges such as insufficient industry supply and high application costs persist. However, opportunities abound with the accelerated deployment of 5G-Advanced (5G-A) technology, the integration of artificial intelligence in industrial processes, and the exploration of standalone industrial 5G private networks.
The rise of 5G factories also underscores opportunities for the industrial PC (IPC) sector, with Taiwan playing a pivotal role. According to the Market Intelligence & Consulting Institute (MIC), Taiwan's IPC shipment value is forecasted to reach NT$309 billion (US$9.7 billion) in 2024, marking a 4.4% year-on-year increase. This momentum is expected to continue into 2025, with shipment value projected to rise 5.4% to NT$325.8 billion (US$10.2 billion). The United States remains the largest export destination, accounting for over 30% of Taiwan's IPC shipments, followed by other Asian countries and Europe.