[Ministry of Finance: Central-level basic research expenditures in 2026 will increase by 16.3% over the previous year] On October 9, the Ministry of Finance released a report on China’s fiscal policy implementation in the first half of 2026, which pointed out that high-level scientific and technological self-reliance and self-reliance will be supported, and independent innovation capabilities will continue to improve. First, investment in basic research continues to increase. Increase central financial investment in basic research. In 2026, basic research expenditures at the central level will increase by 16.3% compared with the previous year. Improve the basic research investment mechanism that combines competitive support and stable support, and guide and encourage the whole society to increase investment in basic research. Second, major national science and technology projects continue to be implemented. Aiming at the country's major strategic needs and industrial development needs, we will strengthen the protection of scientific and technological resources, support the layout and implementation of a number of strategic and overall forward-looking national major scientific and technological projects, and continue to vigorously promote the research of key core technologies. Third, the national strategic scientific and technological strength has been further strengthened. Actively support the construction and development of national laboratories and national key laboratories, increase stable support for central-level scientific research institutes and universities, support the cultivation and expansion of leading scientific and technological enterprises, and support the all-round cultivation, introduction, and utilization of scientific and technological talents. Fourth, the management of science and technology funds has been continuously improved. Continue to improve the allocation, management and use mechanism of central fiscal science and technology funds, strengthen full-process performance management, strengthen and improve supervision and inspection, and improve the efficiency of fund use. Fifth, the construction of a regional scientific and technological innovation system is effectively promoted. Optimize the supply of fiscal policies to support the high-level construction of international science and technology innovation centers in Beijing (Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei), Shanghai (Yangtze River Delta), and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. At the same time, we will guide and encourage localities to increase investment in science and technology and ensure factor protection based on their own endowment conditions, and accelerate the establishment of regional innovation and development highlands with unique characteristics. Sixth, the shortcomings in the supply of science popularization resources have been accelerated. Broaden support channels, establish a new central special lottery public welfare fund project, and support the construction of 204 township science museums in key national rural revitalization counties, Xinjiang, Tibet and other regions based on existing site resources.