China Decoded, an in-depth newsletter from Newsweek, explores China’s expanding influence globally. It delves into Beijing’s strategies, its international policies, and their implications for the United States and its allies. The newsletter features insights from seasoned journalists, including Didi Kirsten Tatlow, Senior Correspondent for International Affairs and Investigations, and John Feng, China Editor based in Taiwan. This article reproduces the latest edition of China Decoded for Newsweek Members.
Printing the Future
The Chinese Communist Party’s economic strategy aims to acquire, support, and dominate emerging technologies such as 3D printing—a process known as additive manufacturing (AM). This technology builds objects from digital models by layering materials, providing strategic advantages in defense and crisis conditions.
A study by David Gardáš, Michal Thim, and Filip Urban, published by Sinopsis, discusses China’s 3D printing ambitions. The authors argue that China’s dominance in AM presents economic and national security challenges. China invests 4.4 percent of its GDP in industrial policies, including subsidies and credit benefits, a figure much higher than any other economy.
China has classified AM as a strategic industry, integrating it into national and provincial policies, and supporting companies like Bambu Lab and Norinco Group. This approach positions China to expand AM production globally while posing risks such as intellectual property loss and technology security concerns.
“China’s AM sector is a strategic concern for industrial competitiveness, technological innovation, and national security,” the authors write.
What Can Other Nations Do?
The authors suggest several strategies to counterbalance China’s influence. Key recommendations include:
- Classifying AM systems as sensitive technology.
- Applying export controls and procurement safeguards.
- Coordinating technology-security measures with allies.
- Investing in competitive open innovation ecosystems.
- Supporting domestic research and workforce education in industrial software and materials.
The Data Story
China is becoming a superpower in manufacturing. Its AM industry, valued at nearly $10.5 billion, shipped almost 40 percent of global AM devices last year, holding a commanding presence in the consumer sector. The U.S. remains the leader in terms of value, particularly in higher-value sectors like aerospace and medical devices, but China aims to compete in these areas as well.
According to Grand View Research, the global AM market will reach $30.6 billion by 2025, with significant growth expected by 2033. CONTEXT reports that the most significant profits lie in industrial 3D printing, where companies like Stratasys lead the market.
China’s strategic playbook sees it in a position to soon challenge in these high-value sectors too.
John Feng, Newsweek’s China Editor, is based in Taichung, Taiwan.
Leave a Reply