#China #Xi Jinping #Beijing #AI Innovation #Production Development

Key Strategies for Quality Productive Forces Development

In the wake of recent inspections and fieldwork, Chinese President Xi Jinping has defined critical directions for advancing new quality productive forces. Throughout the last year, he focused on in-depth studies at production sites, meticulously analyzing the breakthroughs necessary for enhancing China's economic capabilities. His position as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China and the Chairman of the Central Military Commission provides him with a comprehensive view of the nation's production front.

During a meeting in April 2025, Xi emphasized the importance of robust regulation and development of artificial intelligence (AI). He highlighted that it is crucial to push forward technological innovations, enhance industrial development, and ensure the widespread adoption of AI. The impetus on improving regulatory frameworks underscores the pivotal role of governance in steering technological advancements. Four days after this significant meeting, he embarked on an inspection tour in Shanghai to witness firsthand the progress being made in AI, specifically at the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center.

"This initiative in AI forms part of our broader ambition to modernize China and elevate it to a strong nation with the ultimate aim of national revitalization," Xi remarked, expressing a strong belief in the potential of collective efforts towards these goals.

In a visit to the Bensteel Group in Liaoning province in January of the previous year, Xi reiterated the critical role of the steel industry as foundational to the country’s economic structure, which is vital for the real economy of the nation. His inspections have consistently highlighted a clear strategy: to harness science and technology in modern manufacturing processes. For instance, during his May visit at the Luoyang Bearing Group in Henan province, Xi underscored the necessity of technological advancement in manufacturing. He noted, "China has consistently chosen the path of developing its real economy. We have journeyed from depending on imports for basic goods to becoming the world's largest producer with comprehensive industrial sectors at play. To truly realize our modernization, we must continue to strengthen our manufacturing sector and attain independent control over manufacturing technologies."

A pivotal conversation occurred during his visit to Yangquan Valve Co., Ltd. in Shanxi province, where Xi urged against abandoning traditional industries while simultaneously calling for industrial transformation and modernization through innovative technologies. His comprehensive approach integrates both the reinforcement of existing industries and the embrace of future technologies, aiming to create a balanced ecosystem that nurtures growth.

Xi's remarks and actions reflect a broader ambition not only to innovate but to integrate those innovations within established industrial frameworks effectively. The blend of historical context and modern strategy forms a cohesive plan for driving the nation’s industrial sectors forward into a new era of productivity and quality.

As China positions itself under Xi's leadership to confront contemporary challenges and define its future trajectory, the emphasis on AI and technology in enhancing quality productive forces is becoming a defining characteristic of the national strategy. Looking ahead, it is clear that these initiatives will shape not only domestic policies but also have significant implications for global technological standards and economic interactions.