The Wall Street Journal article discusses the challenges and setbacks surrounding Xiongan, a $93 billion megacity initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Intended to alleviate congestion in Beijing, this ambitious smart city project has seen minimal progress after seven years. With high expectations for its role in supporting technological advancements and urban planning, Xiongan remains largely uninhabited, raising questions about the viability and effectiveness of such large-scale government initiatives in China.

Key Points:

• Xiongan is a mega infrastructure project costing $93 billion, aimed at reducing Beijing's congestion.
• Despite substantial investment and development efforts over seven years, the city remains largely empty.
• The project is seen as President Xi Jinping's legacy, highlighting ambitions for modern urban planning and technology integration.
• Challenges include bureaucratic hurdles, lack of a clear population strategy, and economic uncertainties that deter residents and businesses.
• There are broader implications for China's approach to urbanization and infrastructure development amidst changing economic conditions.
  Link to Article