What's next for China after Xi Jinping?

China faces a critical political transition as Xi Jinping consolidates power through unprecedented anti-corruption purges, most notably within the Central Military Commission, while failing to designate a clear successor. This centralization coincides with a bifurcated economy where high-tech exports in sectors like electric vehicles and robotics thrive, yet domestic consumption remains weak and youth unemployment persists. Experts from Carnegie China and the Asia Society highlight that this export-driven model faces increasing international pushback and may prove unsustainable for long-term growth. Furthermore, China’s global influence continues to expand through strategic infrastructure investments in Africa and assertive maritime policies in the South China Sea. Despite widespread public pessimism regarding the domestic economic climate, the party maintains its focus on national standing, leaving the future of both leadership succession and economic stability highly uncertain.