China's rapid advancements challenge global development competition

China's rapid growth is surprising many, according to an analysis by a user named Kaipullai on X. He suggests that China's progress was slow for years but has recently surged in unexpected ways. Initially, China was seen mainly as a manufacturing center, known for cheap labor and products. Over time, however, the country focused on building its own scientific and industrial expertise. This led to significant advancements in multiple sectors. Kaipullai describes China's development as a demonstration of the "law of accelerating returns." He believes that while progress may seem slow at first, it can quickly leap forward. In just 20 years, China transformed from the world's factory into a leader in high-speed rail, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. It built the largest high-speed rail network in under 15 years. Major cities have changed from polluted industrial areas to cleaner, modern hubs. Kaipullai emphasizes that China did not wait for permission or follow traditional methods. Instead, it aggressively pursued knowledge and innovation, reshaping its economy. His analysis raises concern that the global community often underestimates the speed of such compounding progress. With China advancing five years for every year, the big question remains: can other countries keep up with this rapid pace?