In a bid to boost its economy ever higher, China is investing heavily in technology — nanotechnology and biotechnology in particular. But transforming research into profits is tricky, particularly in a post-dotcom climate of cautious investment.

In this article, James C. Hsiao and Kenneth Fong, chairmen of US companies Inframat and Kenson Ventures respectively, examine how three successful technology companies do it. They found that a good intellectual-property portfolio, effective management team and consumer demand — coupled with funding strong on government contracts and corporate partnerships — work best. 

The authors note that China's open-door policy promises plenty of Western involvement. And, they firmly believe, a future as world leader in nanotechnology and biotechnology.

Link to full article in Nature 

Reference: Nature 428, 218 (2004)