Core Issues and Theoretical Prospects of Contemporary Chinese Translation Studies in the Service of National Strategies

Abstract

The comprehensive advancement of national strategies in the New Era has driven a paradigm shift in Chinese translation studies from “text-centeredness” to “national demand orientation.” Based on a systematic analysis of core literature from CSSCI source journals published between 2012 and 2025, this paper delineates the development trajectory and core issues of Chinese translation studies within the context of serving national strategies. The findings indicate that current research has coalesced around five key areas: international communication and national discourse construction, regional and country-specific translation studies under the Belt and Road Initiative, the overseas translation and dissemination of traditional Chinese culture, emergency language services, and translation technology and the development of national translation capacity. The research is characterized by distinct practice orientation, local consciousness, and interdisciplinary tendencies, yet there remains room for improvement in theoretical originality, methodological diversity, and thematic balance. Future research should concentrate on constructing a theoretical system of translation studies with Chinese characteristics, deepening empirical inquiry, and fostering interdisciplinary integration, so as to better respond to the country’s major strategic needs.