Beijing Advances Chang’an Chain as National Digital Infrastructure

• Beijing promotes Chang’an Chain as a national blockchain infrastructure that processes over 100,000 transactions per second and powers China’s real estate registration system. 

• Chinese researchers developed quantum-resistant blockchain technology to protect against future security threats from quantum computing advances. 

• China strictly separates blockchain development and cryptocurrency activities, while Hong Kong embraces crypto regulations.

Beijing has intensified promotion of Chang’an Chain, positioning the domestically developed blockchain platform as critical infrastructure for China’s digital sovereignty strategy. State media outlets highlight the technology’s role in national digitization efforts while maintaining a clear separation from cryptocurrency applications.

State-Backed Blockchain Reaches Commercial Scale

Chang’an Chain has undergone 21 development iterations over six years under researcher Dong Jin’s leadership. The platform now processes over 100,000 transactions per second, matching performance benchmarks set by advanced blockchain networks designed for enterprise-scale operations.

The blockchain infrastructure currently powers China’s nationwide real estate registration system. Companies use the platform to digitize supply chain contracts, enabling banks to verify supplier relationships and accelerate loan approval processes. This practical deployment demonstrates Beijing’s focus on blockchain as a tool for trusted data exchange rather than speculative digital assets.

The timing of increased media coverage coincides with Chinese technology companies lobbying for yuan-backed stablecoin issuance rights in Hong Kong. However, mainland China’s approach remains distinctly different from Hong Kong’s embrace of cryptocurrency regulations.

Quantum Computing Challenges Drive Innovation

Chinese researchers have developed quantum-resistant blockchain storage technology, addressing emerging security threats from quantum computing advances. Quantum computers pose potential risks to existing blockchain cryptographic systems, including Bitcoin’s security infrastructure.

This development aligns with China’s broader technology strategy outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan. While blockchain technology isn’t explicitly listed among the seven prioritized frontier technologies, it remains integral to China’s digital transformation initiatives across finance, governance, and supply chain management.

The plan’s implementation period concludes in December, with final performance assessments scheduled for delivery to the National People’s Congress during March 2026’s legislative session.

Digital Sovereignty vs. Cryptocurrency Markets

China maintains a strict separation between blockchain technology development and cryptocurrency activities. Mainland China continues to prohibit cryptocurrency trading, mining, and exchange operations despite global crypto market surges.

President Xi Jinping elevated blockchain to national priority status in 2019, calling it a “core breakthrough technology.” This strategic positioning emphasizes blockchain’s role in state-controlled infrastructure rather than decentralized financial systems.

Hong Kong has developed comprehensive cryptocurrency regulations to establish itself as a regional digital asset hub. Mainland China’s approach prioritizes state oversight and controlled implementation of blockchain applications.

The contrast reflects Beijing’s consistent policy framework, distinguishing between blockchain technology’s utility for government and enterprise applications versus cryptocurrency’s speculative nature. Chang’an Chain represents this philosophy, delivering high-performance blockchain infrastructure while maintaining state control over digital innovation pathways.