During the two sessions this year, the term "enhancing the core competency of the manufacturing sector" was written into the government work report for the first time, indicating the central government's resolve to consolidate the economic fundamentals through the sector.
The report also proposed that the nation develop advanced manufacturing clusters and strategic emerging industrial clusters.
In recent years, the results of Chongqing's plan to press forward with the high-quality development of its manufacturing industry have become apparent, with the industries above a designated size registering 2.6 trillion yuan ($410.54 billion) in output last year.
Goals for this year have been clarified – the city seeks to boost the added value of industries above a designated size by 6 percent, industrial investment by 7 percent, and R&D expenditure for industrial firms above a designated size by 10 percent, and it will strive to become home to 140 national little giant enterprises by the end of 2022.
Chongqing's automobile sector is currently worth over 500 billion yuan, and is characterized by several local auto brands, including Changan, SERES, and Qingling, as well as renowned brands from other parts of China, such as Geely, Li Auto, and BYD. They have formed clusters for power cells, auto electronics, auto software, and other core auto parts, and have established several important automobile testing and pilot zones for Chongqing.
John Edwards, the UK trade commissioner for China, praised Chongqing over its rise as a burgeoning center in intelligent manufacturing.