The number of researchers in China's manufacturing sector for basic iron, steel, and casting is projected to decline from 17.8 thousand FTEs in 2024 to 12.4 thousand FTEs by 2028. This represents a notable annual decrease, with year-on-year percentages showing a reduction by approximately 7.82% in 2025, 8.33% in 2026, and similar trends in subsequent years. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) reflects a sustained downward trend of research roles, driven by automation and an evolving industry landscape.

Future trends to monitor include:

Technological advancements which may further reduce the need for human researchers.
Potential policy developments influencing the steel industry's research priorities.
Shifts toward greener technologies impacting the nature and scope of research roles.