China Printing Technology Association organizes the evaluation of Bi Yi Printing Award and related ministerial awards every four years (approved by the Propaganda Department of the CPC). The winner of this award should be someone who has worked hard to develop the printing industry in China and promote the progress of printing technology. The reward targets are mainly those who have made outstanding contributions in printing and its equipment, equipment research and development, management and education.

As the highest prize in China's printing industry, the Bi Sheng Prize has been selected for six consecutive times since 1987. The original name of this award was Bi Sheng Award of China Printing Technology Association. After discussion at the second executive committee meeting of the third session of China Printing Association on March 1989, the Bi Sheng Award of China Printing Technology Association was changed to Bi Sheng Printing Award.