On July 9, 2026, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) held a press conference in Beijing to unveil its latest think tank outputs, marking the first major deliverable since its official designation as “National S&T Think Tank” in 2025. This initiative is spearheaded by the Academic Divisions of CAS (CASAD) and spans four core domains—policy-making consultation, academic excellence, scientific culture, and public science engagement—each overseen by one of CASAD’s four ad hoc committees.

Professor WU Zhaohui, Vice President of CAS, underscored the strategic importance of accelerating the development of the national S&T think tank, and emphasized its role in strengthening China's contribution in the global science and technology landscape. Professor WU further stressed that a high-caliber think tank should continuously generate fresh perspectives, innovative concepts, and forward-looking insights, thus supporting academic guidance, strategic policy advice, and public scientific literacy. He also highlighted the initiative’s broader value in inspiring the scientific community.

Professors RAO Zihe, BAO Xinhe, HU Haiyan, and YANG Yuliang, chairmen of ad hoc committees of CASAD, detailed their respective initiatives and future visions for the think tank’s four flagship brand series. They also expressed a shared commitment to organizing more CAS Members and other scientists to actively contribute to the development of the national S&T think tank.

In future, CASAD will concentrate on building a comprehensive portfolio of think tank brands, including Consultation Proposals from CAS Members, Forum on Frontiers of Science & Technology, Thematic Exhibition: A Century of Scientific Lives, Science and China: Member Lecture Tours etc. to accelerate landmark outcomes that combine significant decision-making value, distinctive academic merit, and broad societal impact.