Satellite communication File photo: VCG

China will further improve the satellite communication management system and policy regulations, with new models and business formats such as direct-to-device satellite connectivity to be applied on a large scale, and the number of satellite communication users will exceed 10 million by 2030, according to a guideline released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) on Wednesday. 

The guideline is aimed at orderly promoting the opening of satellite communication services, fostering the high-quality development of the satellite communication industry, stimulating innovation vitality in commercial aerospace, and cultivating new quality productive forces, in a bid to support the construction of a manufacturing powerhouse, a cyber powerhouse, and a digital China.

The guideline called for the accelerated development of low-orbit satellite internet to achieve global broadband network coverage, and support for the development of direct-to-device satellite services for terminals such as mobile phones, fostering economies of scale in satellite communications. 

Moreover, the guideline noted the further expansion of access for private enterprises. It encouraged private enterprises to utilize various high- and low-orbit satellite resources in accordance with laws and regulations through diverse commercial cooperation models, such as leasing satellite resources, providing value-added services, and engaging in distribution and agency businesses, to revitalize existing satellite resources, enrich service offerings, and invigorate the satellite communication market.

According to the guideline, efforts will be made to promote the application of satellite communications in fields such as emergency communications, prioritizing national emergency communication needs. Efforts will include further deepening the use of satellite communications in emergency response for natural disasters such as floods, fires, earthquakes, and typhoons, as well as in areas like production safety, field operations, and search and rescue.

The guideline also encouraged the use of high-throughput satellites, low-orbit satellite internet, and other methods to provide diverse network access services for remote areas, border regions, and areas with complex terrain and climate, further improving China's network coverage level and reducing coverage costs.

Meanwhile, it encouraged innovative applications of satellite communications across various fields, including industry, agriculture, transportation, energy, and urban governance. It asked to strengthen integration with next-generation information infrastructure such as the Industrial Internet, Internet of the Automotive Industry, aviation onboard communications, low-altitude intelligent networks, and computing power networks. It will also promote direct satellite connectivity for vehicles, ships, and aircraft, and vigorously develop widespread, large-scale satellite communication applications.

The guideline called for continuously advancing research and development of key core technologies and products for satellite communications, and enhancing the supply level of foundational components, chips, and critical terminal equipment, in order to improve satellite communication technology performance, reduce user costs, and drive the continuous iterative evolution of China's satellite communication technologies. 

It vowed to promote deep integration of satellite communications with next-generation information and communication technologies such as 5G/6G and artificial intelligence, and accelerate the innovative development of satellite communication technologies, including non-terrestrial networks, according to the MIIT.

The guideline also called for strengthening international cooperation, with efforts including supporting enterprises in conducting international exchanges and cooperation to enhance global service capabilities and optimize global market layouts. China will explore incorporating satellite communication international cooperation into frameworks such as the Belt and Road Initiative, BRICS, and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, and encourage Chinese satellite communication services to go global, according to the guideline.

Global Times