Commercial space sector ready for takeoff

Nearly 100 startups established in the industry as investors see rich prospects

China's commercial space sector is set for strategic growth in 2019 and more efforts are needed to promote the sustainable development of private space companies, said deputies at the two sessions.

Lei Jun, chairman of Xiaomi, and a deputy to the 13th National People's Congress, said despite being a relatively new entrant to the global commercial space arena, China has seen strong momentum in recent years with nearly 100 startups established to engage in fields such as rocket or satellite design and production.