From Beijing to Guangzhou: A journalist explores China’s economic growth

BEIJING: China, with nearly 814 billionaires, leads the world in the number of ultra-wealthy people, followed closely by the United States with 800. China’s rapid economic growth over the past four decades is nothing short of a miracle, and serves as a model for global development, including for countries like Pakistan.

Shiraz Hasnat, Lahore Bureau Chief for Hum News, recently joined a delegation of seven journalists invited by the China Public Diplomacy Association. They traveled to Beijing, Xinjiang, and Guangzhou to study China’s economic and social progress.

China attributed its economic advancement to its early focus on high technology and large-scale exports. The government prioritised research and development, which now plays a central role in the industrial sector.

China has increased its research and development spending by over 70 per cent in recent years. In 2023 alone, Chinese entrepreneurs filed nearly 921,000 patents. The Asian giant now hosts 24 of the world’s 100 largest science and technology clusters.

During the visit, the delegation observed several key developments. They toured state television facilities, the 24-kilometer bridge between Shenzhen and Zhongshan, and Guangzhou’s underground metro system.

The team also visited the largest car factory, where 700 vehicles are assembled every 57 seconds. The group saw the world’s largest television screen and light market.

The journalists pointed to China’s approach as a prime example of how effective economic and administrative policies can drive substantial societal progress.

Shiraz Hasnat