Blending insider knowledge and academic rigor, this book analyzes the status of China’s technological and industrial transformation and its implications for the future.

Global perceptions of China have focused heavily on a catch-up narrative of borrowing, adaptation and even IP theft. But many have been caught flatfooted by China’s unanticipated emergence as an innovator in science and industry. To highlight the enormous significance of what has unfolded, the book first examines the key factors that have enabled China’s radical readjustment of its development model over the last decade, in terms of industrial policy, planning, and funding, coupled with the vital role of the private economy and entrepreneurial energy. Based on his extensive engagement and industry knowledge within China, Paul Clifford then dives deep into specific verticals, from new frontier technology such as AI, quantum and biotech, to more traditional industry such as auto, civil aircraft and shipbuilding, shedding much needed light on issues such as technology dependence in a complex and risky geopolitical landscape.

Policy makers, those doing business in China, students of economics and business, and anyone seeking up-to-date information on China’s technology breakthroughs put in their historical context, will benefit from this book’s practical, balanced, and research-backed approach.

Dr. Paul G. Clifford is External Associate at the Lau China Institute, King’s College London and Honorary Fellow at the Foreign Policy Association. He is author of The China Paradox: At the Front Line of Economic Transformation and China’s Logistics; From Laggard to Innovator. He worked in China in banking, strategy consulting, and technology. He was educated at SOAS University of London and Peking University.