Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the strategic maneuvering between China and Japan regarding high-speed rail technology transfer, highlighting how China outsmarted Japan's initial intentions to control the high-speed rail market through a series of negotiations and technology transfer agreements. Group 1: Japan's Initial Strategy - Japan aimed to control China's high-speed rail by offering only limited technology while requiring ongoing payments for parts and patents, effectively trying to keep China dependent on Japanese technology [2][4][6] - During negotiations, Japan presented a friendly facade but concealed their true intentions of withholding critical technology necessary for higher-speed trains [4][6][7] Group 2: China's Counter Strategy - In response to Japan's tactics, China initiated a large-scale procurement plan in 2004, mandating that participating companies must transfer all technology, thereby setting a high barrier for entry [9][11] - This strategy forced foreign companies to compete for limited collaboration opportunities, disrupting Japan's initial plans and leading to a scramble for agreements [11][12] Group 3: Successful Technology Transfer and Development - China implemented a rigorous evaluation system to ensure that foreign partners effectively transferred technology, which led to rapid mastery of key technologies within three years [14][16] - By 2010, China developed its own high-speed trains capable of exceeding speeds of 416.6 km/h, establishing itself as a leader in the global high-speed rail market [16] - As of 2024, China holds two-thirds of the global high-speed rail market, while Japan's traditional technology has not achieved similar international success [16]