Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday called for faster and stronger development of advanced manufacturing in the country to fuel the sputtering economy.
As a pillar industry, China's manufacturing should become high-end and more intelligent through nationwide startups and innovation, Li said during a State Council meeting.
He stressed fixing problems in the industry, such as lack of innovation, low added value and subpar services, in order to boost the country's manufacturing capabilities and support the government's "Made in China 2025" and "Internet Plus" initiatives.
Unveiled by the State Council earlier in May this year, the 10-year "Made in China 2025" initiative seeks to transform China from a major manufacturing hub to a "world manufacturing power," according to a report from the Global Times on Sunday.
The "Internet Plus" concept, which was presented by Premier Li during his government work report in March, is aimed toward promoting the healthy development of e-commerce, industrial networks and Internet finance.
Less red tape and better governmental management and service will create a fair environment for entrepreneurship, Li said, adding that more outsourcing, funding and support will stimulate emerging businesses and generate new growth.
Li also cited intelligent manufacturing technologies, such as 3D printing, as a model for deep reform of the whole industry.
3D printing has realized a significant change from traditional manufacturing, Li said, urging industry leaders to use more 3D printing technology as well as advanced machine tools and industrial robots in order to attract more customers, expand market demand and maintain sustainable development.
Lu Bingheng, a researcher at the Xi'an Jiaotong University, also introduced the current state of China's advanced manufacturing sector and the latest 3D printing technologies during the meeting.