The Rise of China’s Private Space Industry

Since 2014’s “Document 60,” China has rapidly grown a commercial space ecosystem spanning launch (Landspace, i-Space, Galactic Energy, Space Pioneer, Orienspace), satellites (notably CGST’s Jilin-1), components, and TT&C (Emposat). Startups evolved from solid-fuel demos to liquid and methane rockets, sourcing parts from a maturing supply base, while Earth-observation and niche constellations (GeeSpace, Huawei) expanded. Funding has been significant and launch rates rising, yet profitability, licensing clarity, and military-controlled launch access remain constraints. With new commercial pads and sea launches coming online, competition for government and private contracts is intensifying—promising growth, but with policy and market risks still decisive.