Deputy Director of Xiong'an Blockchain Laboratory Li Jun: Build a self-controllable Blockchain underlying technology platform

Recently, the Blockchain field has seen several significant developments. The internal testing scope of central bank digital currencies is continuously expanding, and several large banks have begun pilot programs. At the same time, the BSN Blockchain Service Network, led by the National Information Center, is also about to launch. Behind these initiatives are the long-term explorations and preparations of the government and enterprises.

As a national-level new area, Xiong'an's exploration in the Blockchain field is particularly noteworthy. Since 2017, Xiong'an has launched pilot applications of Blockchain in various fields, including fund management, renting housing, afforestation, and more. At the end of March 2020, the Xiong'an Blockchain Laboratory was officially established, marking a further systematic and in-depth advancement of Blockchain research and application locally.

The establishment of the Xiong'an Blockchain Laboratory has two main purposes: first, to study the application of Blockchain technology in the construction of smart cities and the development of the digital economy; second, to integrate existing Blockchain applications and play a leading role. In the future, the laboratory will also export knowledge and technical capabilities.

Currently, several large state-owned enterprises, banks, and universities have confirmed their participation in the lab construction. The lab will also be open to innovative small and medium-sized enterprises, and relevant details are being formulated.

In terms of technology, the laboratory will focus on three aspects: first, developing open-source Blockchains suitable for the characteristics of smart cities; second, transforming Blockchain into infrastructure; third, researching operational mechanisms and related theories. All technological research and development will adopt an open-source format.

In terms of standard formulation, the laboratory will first establish local standards, which are expected to rise to national and even international standards in the future. The evaluation and certification work is also in progress.

In terms of talent, the laboratory will adopt an open model and welcome outstanding talents from across the country to exchange and cooperate. Some inbound personnel may receive funding support, but the threshold is relatively high.

Li Jun stated that Xiong'an will build a self-controlled Blockchain infrastructure platform that is compatible with other excellent Blockchain platforms. In the future, the Blockchain applications in Xiong'an will be more systematic, covering various fields such as social governance and livelihood services.

Although blockchain is not currently included in the new infrastructure category, Li Jun believes that blockchain will benefit from the new infrastructure by closely integrating with new technologies like 5G and artificial intelligence. If the Xiong'an pilot is successful, blockchain is expected to develop into an independent industry.