China’s rise as a global leader in green technology is being driven by a strategy known as involution—a process where domestic competition forces companies to innovate rapidly to survive. By fostering intense rivalry among firms within its borders, China has accelerated advancements in renewable energy and clean tech, outpacing many Western competitors. This approach leverages state-backed policies and a vast domestic market to push boundaries in efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The model highlights how economic pressure can become a catalyst for technological dominance.
Survival of the fiercest: How involution helps China dominate green tech globally Mercator Institute for China Studies
