Xi Jinping's Vision for Advancing High-Quality Productive Forces in China

In a series of comprehensive field investigations and inspections over the past year, Chinese President Xi Jinping has outlined a clear vision for the advancement of high-quality productive forces within the nation. His commitment to innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), has been pivotal in shaping strategies aimed at modernizing China’s industrial landscape.

Xi, who holds dual roles as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, has placed significant emphasis on enhancing the quality of productive forces through technological development. During a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee held in April 2025, he underscored the necessity of robust, integrated strategies to foster technological innovation, advance industrial development, and empower AI applications. Moreover, he called for the enhancement of regulatory frameworks to ensure a systematic approach to AI governance, thus asserting China’s leadership in this crucial sector.

Just days after the political session, Xi embarked on a tour aimed at gaining firsthand insight into AI development initiatives across various regions. His approach reflects a hands-on leadership style—most notably exemplified during his inspection visit to the Shanghai Innovation Model Center. There, Xi expressed the strategic importance of AI in China’s modernization efforts, highlighting that the responsibility lies with the current generation to realize the dreams of national rejuvenation.

In venues such as the Bensteel Group in Liaoning Province and the Luoyang Bearing Group in Henan Province, Xi reinforced the idea that sectors like steel production remain fundamental to China’s economic foundation. He articulated a vision for a manufacturing sector that is not just technologically empowered but also capable of independent innovation and resilience. His statements echoed a historical context, reflecting on China’s journey from reliance on foreign imports to becoming the world's largest manufacturing powerhouse, with a diverse range of industrial capabilities.

Central to Xi’s narrative is the belief that modernization in China cannot merely hinge on new technologies; it must also respect and adapt traditional industries. During his discussions with workers at Yangquan Valve Co., Ltd. in Shanxi Province, he reiterated the significance of the real economy and the need to continue investing in traditional sectors while pursuing modern transformational paths through technological innovation.

This strategic push is not just about immediate economic gain; it aims at sustaining growth by solidifying China’s technological capabilities and ensuring competitive advantages on the global stage. Xi’s directives serve as a roadmap, inviting a collaborative effort across different sectors to harness the potential of AI and other emerging technologies.

In conclusion, President Xi Jinping's vision emphasizes a balanced approach, integrating traditional sectors with high-tech advancements while fostering an environment conducive to innovative growth. This narrative of modernization is not only pivotal for China’s economic future but also sets a precedent for global discussions surrounding industrial development and AI governance.

As China continues to evolve, the challenges and opportunities presented by Xi’s vision will be closely monitored, both within the nation and on the international front, as the world watches how China navigates this transformative journey.