China is planning to create massive city clusters that will accommodate as many as a hundred million people each. With the goal of delivering the benefits of urbanization without the headaches, these city clusters will collaborate economically, ecologically, and politically. The national urban development policy in China has shifted to focus on building these city clusters instead of expanding individual cities. The rise of megalopolises has been observed in different parts of the world, and China sees city clusters as an opportunity to expand access to urban opportunities without overwhelming cities. The development of high-speed rail networks, digital public services, and regional environmental management are key areas where the foundations for these city clusters are being laid.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| China’s planned city clusters | Shift from expanding individual cities to building city clusters | Five major city clusters established, boosting regional collaboration | Efficient investments, alleviating overpopulation and pollution |
| Rise of megalopolis | Increase in the formation of city clusters | More city clusters in different parts of the world | Economic and cultural influence, access to urban opportunities |
| New rail lines connecting city clusters | Expansion of railway networks and connectivity | 200,000 kilometers of railways in China by 2035, better transportation within and across clusters | Improved transportation, economic growth |
| Digital public services | Development of apps for efficient public service delivery | Increased availability of digital public services, convenience for residents | Minimizing paperwork, streamlining service delivery |
| Cooperation to address pollution | Collaborative efforts to monitor and clean up pollution | Improved water quality and environmental conditions | Curbing and regulating pollution, common discharge standards |