New Yorker: China races to own the industries of the future

In a compelling exposé for The New Yorker, journalist Evan Osnos reveals China's ambitious pursuit of technological supremacy, indicating it may soon surpass the United States in various fields. Osnos' article, titled "The Future, Made in China," underscores how the nation's strategic investments, industrial policies, and diplomatic planning are bearing fruit as America's focus shifts to less pressing matters.

Osnos, a former foreign correspondent who lived in Beijing for eight years, returns for a fresh perspective during his 10-day stay. He observes the city's reduced bustle, attributing this to the quietude of a high-tech metropolis. Electric vehicles glide silently through the streets, while the populace relies heavily on digital payment systems like WeChat and Alipay, with minimal need for physical cash exchanges.

The article delves into the surveillance state that exists in China, where an AI expo in Beijing showcases a kiosk capable of performing an emotional analysis of an individual's facial expressions. Osnos undergoes one of these scans, receiving a breakdown of his emotional state, 76.67% positivity and 23.33% negativity, with fear and rage being the primary negative emotions detected. This data could potentially be utilized by the Chinese government to identify potential threats.

China's dominance is also evident in the realm of industrial robots, with the country deploying more than the rest of the world combined. In the medical field, China has outpaced the United States in registered clinical trials. Additionally, China produces 70% of the world's drones, electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and solar cells, showcasing its technological prowess across multiple sectors.

Despite China's increasing capabilities, the nation maintains a cautious approach towards the United States, avoiding overt antagonism. The country recognizes the potential danger posed by America's continued influence, even in a period of decline. A China specialist at Georgetown and the Council on Foreign Relations, Rush Doshi, warns that if the U.S. fails to maintain its lead in AI, biotech, and robotics, it could lead to an irreversible shift in global power dynamics.

In light of these developments, China's rulers feel confident and "like the champions of the world," according to a European diplomat who has met with Chinese officials, including President Xi Jinping. This newfound self-assurance poses a significant challenge to the United States, whose industries once led the world but now face the prospect of being overtaken by China's relentless pursuit of technological advancement.