China's industrial production grows steadily in first three quarters

China's industrial production registered steady growth in the first three quarters of 2024, accompanied by a faster pace of intelligent and green transformation.

From January to September, the total value added of industrial enterprises above the designated size increased by 5.8 percent year-on-year.

Powered by innovation and green upgrades, industrial performance emerged as a key strength, contributing nearly 40 percent of the GDP in the first three quarters.

In terms of structural adjustments, the value added in equipment manufacturing and high-tech sectors grew by 7.5 percent and 9.1 percent, respectively, significantly surpassing the 5.8 percent growth rate for all designated large industrial enterprises. This shift reflects a transition toward a more efficient, technology-driven industrial model.

"During the first three quarters, the trend of industrial transformation towards 'new' and 'green' has become more obvious, with high-tech manufacturing thriving, intelligent products rapidly growing, the new energy industry continuously expanding, and the acceleration of shifting from old drivers of growth to new ones, becoming a significant force leading high-quality industrial development," said Han Jianfei, deputy director of the Institute of Industrial Economics of CCID Consulting, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

In the major equipment sector, the electronics and automotive sectors grew rapidly, with double-digit increases in the production of products such as new energy vehicles, integrated circuits, and 3D printing equipment, serving as important engines driving industrial growth.

In the first three quarters, there was a clear trend of industrial transformation and upgrading. Green products represented by the "three new products" (electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar cells) gained significant momentum, with production continuing to grow at a double-digit rate.

Industries related to competitive new energy sources like wind power, nuclear power, and photovoltaic power maintained rapid production growth. Meanwhile, the added value of information transmission, software, information technology services, and digital product manufacturing has been growing rapidly, injecting new vitality into the high-quality development of China's industrial economy.

China's industrial production grows steadily in first three quarters

The 11th Wuzhen Theater Festival raised the curtain Thursday evening in the ancient water town of Wuzhen in Zhejiang Province, east China, bringing together theatrical artists of all ages and enthusiasts from home and abroad.

This year's festival, which runs until Oct. 27 under the theme of "solidarity," features 24 specially invited plays from 11 countries. Of these, 18 performances will compete in the emerging theater artists' competition segment, as well as teaching and reading sessions and outdoor carnivals.

One of the festival's major attractions is the ancient town carnival, which has been drawing crowds of audience members and visitors. Each street is adorned with different scenes, creating an immersive experience.

At Zhaoming Academy, two young theatrical artists performed a puppet show that captivated numerous tourists.

"The marionette seems to come to life through the background music reminiscent of Nanyin (ancient court music) and the performer's lines reflecting an expression of inner self," said Song Qingru, a theater enthusiast.

"It's a popular festival, accessible to everyone. We ordinary people can enjoy it. I love these dramas and come here to take photos and appreciate the performances," said Xu Jufen, a visitor.

The drama fair at this festival features a variety of elements, including music, movies, designer toys, exhibitions, and fairs. It gathers inheritors of intangible cultural heritage and drama performers from across China, merging traditional folk cultures with contemporary arts.

"We invited artists from Peking Opera and Qinqiang Opera (a Chinese folk opera genre originating in the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC-771 BC) to perform in Wuzhen. Tourists can sit on benches to appreciate traditional Chinese dramas, allowing us to share and spread our cultural heritage," said Lu Yaping, one of the program heads for intangible cultural heritage.

Wuzhen Theater Festival kicks off with variety of outdoor live performances