Archive · 25 Jul 2026
Book Review: The New Tech Titans of China
The book 'The New Tech Titans of China' by Rebecca Fannin talks about how China's technology sector is changing.
It used to be about big companies like Alibaba and Tencent, but now it's about things like electric cars, AI, and semiconductors.
The book says that even though there are a lot of restrictions and sanctions from other countries, China is still innovating and becoming more self-reliant.
The author thinks that China is doing well in these new areas, but some people might think the book doesn't talk enough about the problems that come with the government leading innovation.
Overall, the book shows that China is still a big player in technology, even with all the challenges.
The book discusses China's shift from internet platforms to strategic technologies like electric vehicles and AI.
It highlights China's innovation in electric vehicles and AI, with companies like BYD, Nio, and XPeng leading the way.
The author argues that external pressures have accelerated China's efforts to build domestic capabilities, especially in semiconductors.
The book benefits from the author's extensive reporting and access to key figures in China's technology sector.
Critics note that the book could delve deeper into the inefficiencies and risks of state-led innovation.
- Who
- Rebecca Fannin
- What
- A book review of 'The New Tech Titans of China: Innovation Under Pressure in the World’s Most Ambitious Economy'
- When
- The book was originally published in 2019 and updated in 2025.
- Where
- The book focuses on China's technology sector and its global implications.
- Why
- To examine how China's technology sector is adapting to geopolitical pressures and constraints.
Optimistic View
Skeptical View
State-Led Innovation
Optimistic View
State-led innovation has successfully driven technological advancements and self-reliance in China.
Skeptical View
State-led innovation comes with inefficiencies, distortions, and risks that are not fully addressed.
- Author
- Rebecca Fannin
- Publisher
- Hachette
- Pages
- 256
- Price
- Rs 599
- Original Publication Year
- 2019
- Updated Edition Year
- 2025
- Key Technologies Covered
- Electric Vehicles, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Advanced Manufacturing, Semiconductors