On March 11, 2025, the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress passed the resolution on the implementation of the 2024 national economic and social development plan and the 2025 plan, officially approving the 2025 National Economic and Social Development Plan.
Section II of the plan outlines the strategic goal of developing new quality productive forces based on local conditions and accelerating the establishment of a modern industrial system. Key initiatives include scaling up industrial internet applications, promoting the digital transformation of manufacturing, fostering emerging industries, and deepening the integration of advanced manufacturing and modern services.
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology, which utilizes digital information to control the motion and processing of machine tools, plays a core role in the digital transformation of manufacturing and the development of advanced manufacturing. Machine tools that employ CNC technology are called CNC machine tools, comprising a control system, programmable logic controller (PLC), spindle drive, and feed mechanism. The parameters governing the movement between the tool and the workpiece—such as feed rate, spindle speed, direction of rotation, tool change, and coolant control—are programmed and stored in a specific format. These programs are then read or transmitted into the CNC system, decoded, and executed to produce precise components.
As an enabling technology and fundamental equipment in high-tech industries, CNC technology and equipment are crucial for the growth of strategic emerging industries and cutting-edge manufacturing. Modern CNC machine tools represent a quintessential example of mechatronics and are essential components of new-generation production technologies and computer-integrated manufacturing systems. CNC machining centers, equipped with tool magazines and capable of automatic tool changes, can perform multiple machining operations on a workpiece in a single setup. The CNC system autonomously controls spindle speed, feed rate, tool paths, and auxiliary functions, enabling operations like drilling, countersinking, reaming, boring, tapping, and milling across multiple surfaces. These centers significantly enhance precision and efficiency by minimizing manual errors, setup times, and material handling, thereby delivering strong economic benefits. Based on spindle orientation, machining centers are categorized into vertical and horizontal types.
Amid the ongoing transformation and upgrading of the manufacturing sector, the growing demand for high precision, high efficiency, and intelligent machining is driving CNC technology beyond traditional boundaries. It is no longer just about improving technical capability, but about responding precisely to diverse customer needs. Innovations in smart production workflows—through advanced CNC systems, sensor integration, and AI algorithms—enable full-process intelligent control from design to production, substantially boosting productivity and product quality.
As customer demands become increasingly personalized, customized production is emerging as a new trend. Manufacturers must enhance their responsiveness by adopting modular designs and flexible production lines to meet specific industry requirements. At the same time, the CNC machining industry is making significant contributions to green manufacturing for sustainable development. In response to environmental challenges and resource constraints, eco-friendly machining techniques—such as dry cutting, low-temperature cutting, and minimal or zero cutting fluid use—are being widely adopted to reduce environmental impact and resource consumption.
CNC technology continues to evolve alongside developments in information technology, microelectronics, automation, and sensing. Its future lies in higher speed, greater precision, multifunctional integration, and enhanced intelligence. The sophistication of CNC technology is closely tied to a nation’s overall strength, especially in key strategic areas involving high-end CNC equipment. Globally, industries such as information technology, biotechnology, automotive, and electronics rely heavily on CNC systems to enhance manufacturing capabilities, adapt to market shifts, and stay competitive. CNC applications span across automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, mold making, power generation equipment, metallurgical machinery, and telecommunications equipment.
China’s 14th Five-Year Plan emphasizes upgrading the manufacturing sector by nurturing advanced manufacturing clusters and developing leading and pillar industries. It also advocates for the integrated, clustered, and eco-friendly development of strategic emerging industries, targeting a contribution of over 17% of GDP. Advanced industries like automobiles, semiconductors, and robotics increasingly rely on CNC machine tools for precision component production. As China’s portfolio of advanced manufacturing industries continues to expand, demand in the CNC machining sector is projected to rise steadily.
By 2029, the market size of CNC machining in China is expected to exceed RMB 600 billion.
