Geopolitical Economy Report How does China's system really work? This famous Chinese professor explains
9 snips
Aug 23, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Zhang Weiwei, a renowned scholar from Fudan University, delves into the intricacies of China’s political system and socialist market economy. He elaborates on the unique 'China model,' emphasizing meritocracy and community involvement in governance. The conversation explores how China views democracy compared to the U.S. and critiques the ongoing trade war, highlighting its economic implications. Zhang also discusses the shift towards a multipolar world and China’s strategies to reduce dependence on U.S. financial systems.
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Civilization-State Governance
- Zhang Weiwei argues China's political system is a continuation of its civil service exam tradition and a 'holistic' party structure.
- He claims this selection-plus-examination process produces more experienced, competent leaders than Western partisan systems.
State-Led Market Innovation
- Zhang describes China's economy as a unique socialist market mixed economy with state-owned control over key resources and flexible market use of land rights.
- He credits state-built digital infrastructure and competition for rapid domestic innovation in internet apps and EVs.
Scale Enables Competition
- Zhang emphasizes intense domestic competition across huge markets as central to China's success and cost reductions.
- He argues China's size allows genuine full competition and many firms to innovate simultaneously.