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China's high‑tech surge reshapes global supply chains

Financial Times Companies •
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China’s relentless drive to dominate cutting‑edge sectors is reshaping global supply chains. Backed by massive state subsidies and a scale that dwarfs rivals, Chinese firms are rapidly scaling production of semiconductors, AI hardware, and advanced batteries. Investors see a surge in export volumes as domestic champions crowd out incumbents in markets once considered untouchable for global tech players today onward.

The policy push stems from a decade‑long “Made in China 2025” agenda that earmarked billions for R&D and manufacturing subsidies. Analysts estimate that state‑backed financing now exceeds $200 billion annually across the high‑tech corridor, pressuring Western firms to either partner with Chinese counterparts or risk losing market share to cheaper, mass‑produced alternatives in sectors ranging from telecom to renewable energy by 2025.

For capital markets, the wave translates into heightened volatility for firms exposed to Chinese supply chains and a reassessment of valuation multiples. Hedge funds are trimming positions in legacy chipmakers while boosting exposure to Chinese‑listed AI and battery producers. In practice, the shift forces CEOs to redesign sourcing strategies or confront shrinking margins as the Chinese surge redefines competitive benchmarks.