China’s Xi doubles down on self-reliance, rallying officials to bolster manufacturing

President Xi Jinping says self-reliance in advanced manufacturing is the right path for China and the bedrock for its future economic development. The comment, made during a visit to Henan province on May 19, 2025, is being seen as a clear message on Beijing’s commitment to extending made-in-China advantages as external uncertainties weigh on the economy. The president visited a state-owned bearings producer in Luoyang city, where he rallied officials to dial up efforts to develop the manufacturing sector.