China in the Xi Jinping era

The GATE News working paper “China in the era of Xi Jinping” by Xulio Ríos offers an in-depth analysis of the transformations that China has undergone under the leadership of Xi Jinping, since he assumed the General Secretariat of the Communist Party in 2012. This period, called “Xiism”, marks a crucial stage in the modernization and consolidation of Chinese power at national and international level.

 

One of the key aspects is the reaffirmation of Marxism adapted to Chinese circumstances, combining elements of Maoism and traditional culture. This “Sinicization of Marxism” has been instrumental in shielding China’s political and ideological model from Western liberal influences. At the same time, Xi has centralized power in a remarkable way, strengthening the internal discipline of the Communist Party and eliminating any hint of opposition.

 

Another of the main ideas presented by the author is that, in the economic sphere, Xi has promoted a transformation aimed at overcoming the development model based on cheap labor and exports, promoting instead growth based on innovation and technology. The “Made in China 2025” strategy and the commitment to environmental sustainability are pillars of this new model. However, Ríos points out that the transition has not been easy, facing internal and external tensions, especially in its relationship with the United States.

 

The author also highlights Xi’s focus on “common prosperity,” an attempt to reduce growing social inequality without giving up the economic gains achieved. Finally, Ríos’ analysis points out that Xi’s China seeks to assert its status as a global power, redefining the multipolar order with initiatives such as the “community of shared future,” a concept that reflects his vision of an interdependent world.