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Technology Governance

Improving China's Statistical System of Basic Research Expendi⁃ ture from an International Comparative Perspective 

Rong Junmei1, 3 , Chen Qiang2, 3 , Jin Shanlin2 

(1.Institute of Applied Economics, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, Shanghai 200020, China; 2.School of  Economics and Management, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; 3.Shanghai Industrial Innovation Ecosystem Research Center, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China)

Abstract: A refined statistical system for basic research expenditure guarantees highquality statistical data and underpins the optimization of basic research investment structures. Based on a literature review, institutional sorting, field investigation, and international comparative analysis, this paper analyzes statistical data gaps and differences in statistical systems  across countries, systematically examines the evolution and inherent deficiencies of China's basic research statistical system, and puts forward targeted optimization strategies. Embedded in  the national R&D statistical framework, China's basic research statistics have undergone distinctive institutional transformations: the separation of R&D statistics and fiscal final accounts into  two independent systems, the shift from general science and technology statistics to standardized  R&D statistics, the replacement of project-based corporate R&D accounting with the financial  expenditure method, and the continuous refinement of the conceptual connotation of basic research. Nevertheless, the current system still presents prominent shortcomings. Specifically, corporate basic research expenditure is difficult to quantify, public indicators on basic research  funding sources are insufficient, statistical criteria vary across regions, statistical sub-items are  ambiguous, reporting institutions possess excessive discretionary flexibility, and the overall statistical scope remains relatively narrow. Each country adapts the statistical methods outlined in  the OECD's Frascati Manual to suit its specific national circumstances. The cross-national differences in statistical data should be viewed rationally. The statistical systems for basic research, scope of funding, survey populations, and disclosed data in the United States, Japan, France, the  United Kingdom, and South Korea each have their own distinct characteristics. Notable practices  include: the United States' implementation of expenditure and input statistics, classification of  funding types based on researchers' work content, and sample surveys of small, medium, and micro enterprises; Japan publishes basic research statistics for various industries and continuously  tracks the R&D structure and basic research investment in key sectors; France targets enterprises with existing R&D activities in its surveys and collects and publishes basic research budgets and expenditures across various sectors; the United Kingdom distinguishes between pure basic research and applied basic research expenditures in its government surveys; South Korea conducts comprehensive surveys of enterprises with R&D centers and research departments, with a  focus on in-depth analysis of the telecommunications sector. Integrating China's institutional  context with international experience, this paper proposes improvements: constructing statistical  indicators for basic research funding sources and investment orientations, expanding and refining enterprise R&D surveys, strengthening statistical monitoring of basic research expenditures  across various industries, clarifying statistical subcategories, standardizing uniform public indicators and statistical standards, and strengthening training on data reporting and establishing a  data verification system. technology powerhouse 

Key words: basic research ; innovation transformation ; R&D; statistical system ; R&D expenditure ; international comparison ; policy recommendations