21社论丨持续推动中国向“全球智造创新中心”转型
21世纪经济报道·2026-01-28 00:53

Core Insights - The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently announced a new batch of global lighthouse factories, with China securing 16 out of 23 new additions, representing nearly 70% of the total [1] - China now has a total of 101 lighthouse factories, accounting for almost half of the global total of 224, maintaining its leadership in the sector [1] - The concept of lighthouse factories, introduced by WEF and McKinsey in 2018, aims to identify advanced manufacturing bases that have achieved breakthroughs in the Fourth Industrial Revolution [1] Group 1 - The evaluation criteria for lighthouse factories have evolved from focusing solely on factory-level technology applications to five categories: customer-centric, production efficiency, supply chain resilience, sustainability, and talent [2] - The shift from digitalization to intelligence in global manufacturing reflects the need for companies to rapidly sense, adapt, and respond to market changes [2] - New lighthouse factories demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive, AI-driven systemic transformation rather than fragmented digital initiatives [2] Group 2 - Foreign companies are increasingly establishing lighthouse factories in China, transitioning from merely replicating mature digital models to localizing technology and driving innovation [3] - Notable foreign entrants include Siemens, Schneider Electric, Carl Zeiss, and Michelin, which are using Chinese factories as testing grounds for global technology R&D [3] - China's robust industrial supply chain, large market demand, and talent pool contribute to its leading position in smart manufacturing [3] Group 3 - The establishment of more lighthouse factories is crucial for China's transformation into a global innovation center for intelligent manufacturing [4] - These factories provide clear pathways for traditional manufacturing to upgrade digitally and intelligently, reshaping production paradigms and enhancing supply chain resilience [4] - China has the potential to refine and export its smart manufacturing standards and solutions, positioning itself as a leader in global smart manufacturing [4]

21社论丨持续推动中国向“全球智造创新中心”转型 - Reportify