China's Commercial Space Sector Achieves Record 50 Launches in 2025, Dominating National Total

Record-Breaking Year for Commercial Space

China's commercial space sector experienced unprecedented growth in 2025, successfully conducting 50 orbital launches. This figure represents a substantial 54% of the nation's total space launch missions for the year, according to data released by the China National Space Administration (CNSA). The overall number of space launches for China in 2025 reached a record high of 92, underscoring the increasing contribution of private entities to the country's ambitious space agenda.

Key Contributions and Infrastructure Development

The commercial sector's robust performance saw 25 launches carried out by commercial launch vehicles. A notable development was the operationalization of the Hainan commercial space launch site in late 2024, which facilitated nine launches in 2025. Furthermore, commercial enterprises were responsible for placing 311 satellites into orbit, accounting for 84% of China's total satellite deployments last year.

The industry's expansion is supported by significant infrastructure and policy initiatives:

• Construction of China's first comprehensive factory for the assembly, testing, and reuse of carrier rockets in Wenchang.
• Establishment of a dedicated commercial space department within the CNSA.
• Release of the 'Action Plan for Promoting the High-Quality and Secure Development of Commercial Space from 2025 to 2027'.

Technological Advancements and Economic Impact

Technological breakthroughs, particularly in reusable launch vehicle technology, have been pivotal. The Zhuque-3 reusable rocket, developed by LandSpace, completed its maiden flight, successfully verifying key technologies such as first-stage reentry and recovery. Other private firms like Galactic Energy are also making strides, with their PALLAS-2 engine, CQ-90, successfully completing hot-fire tests.

The economic impact of this burgeoning sector is substantial. In 2025, China's commercial space industry was valued between 2.5 trillion yuan (US$350 billion) and 2.8 trillion yuan, demonstrating a compound annual growth rate exceeding 20%. This growth is fueled by a competitive landscape that includes over 600 players, with companies like Space Pioneer, i-Space, CAS Space, and Beijing Xingtu contributing to a 'thriving, state-orchestrated startup ecosystem'.

Future Outlook

The rapid development of China's commercial space sector is a direct result of policy reforms initiated in 2014, which opened the industry to private investment. The 2025 government work report further emphasized the 'safe and healthy development' of commercial space, signaling continued governmental support. This trajectory positions China as a formidable competitor in the global space arena, intensifying competition with established players, particularly those in the United States.