Support for ‘little giants’ and other specialised SMEs remains a vital part of the long-term strategy to bolster China’s global manufacturing

For Beijing, this feels less like criticism and more like a subtle compliment. In many ways, it affirms China’s long-term strategy to bolster its global manufacturing.

Supporting technology-driven small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is a vital part of that strategy. Since the policy concept of targeted SME support was introduced in 2011, the authorities have developed a multi-tier framework to identify high-performing companies and direct support to them.

During China’s 14th five-year plan (2021–2025), the number of specialised firms rose from fewer than 40,000 to more than 140,000, while little giants increased from about 5,000 to 17,600.

Source: News - South China Morning Post