China’s traditional industries are experiencing renewed growth as demand from emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, new energy, and the low-altitude economy creates new market opportunities.

The non-ferrous metals industry has benefited significantly, with rising demand for tin in advanced semiconductor packaging pushing prices higher and contributing to an 117.8 percent year-on-year increase in industry profits during the first four months of 2026. Demand for nickel, cobalt, lithium, copper, aluminium, and rare-earth metals has also continued to grow.

Beyond metals, expanding industries are boosting markets for specialty steel, chemicals, carbon-fibre materials, and industrial components, helping traditional manufacturers diversify and upgrade.

Chinese companies are investing in technological innovation, digital transformation, and green production to move from low-value manufacturing to high-end products and integrated services. Industries including automotive, textiles, and construction machinery are developing smart products, advanced materials, and service-based business models.

The transformation highlights how innovation and emerging demand are reshaping traditional industries, creating new growth opportunities while supporting China’s high-quality economic development.

Source: People’s Daily