China’s $93 billion smart city of Xiongan, touted as President Xi Jinping’s utopian legacy, has faced significant challenges in attracting residents despite seven years of development. Situated 60 miles outside of Beijing, Xiongan was designed to alleviate the strain on the overcrowded and congested Chinese capital, which is home to over 20 million people. However, the streets of this new metropolis remain largely empty, raising questions about the viability of the ambitious project.
The Wall Street Journal examines the obstacles confronting Xiongan and sheds light on the limitations of President Xi’s authority. The video delves into the reasons behind the city’s underutilization, exploring the motivations for its construction and the significance of the project for President Xi. Despite the high expectations placed on Xiongan, the population growth has been slower than anticipated, leaving many to wonder whether people will eventually move in and bring life to the futuristic smart city.
As Xiongan continues to struggle with occupancy rates and fails to attract the envisioned influx of residents, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by even the most well-funded and meticulously planned megaprojects in China. The uncertainties surrounding Xiongan’s future highlight the complexities of urban development and raise important questions about the feasibility of President Xi’s grand vision for the region.
Watch the video by The Wall Street Journal
Video “Why Chinese President Xi’s $93B Personal Megacity Remains Empty | WSJ” was uploaded on 02/12/2025 to Youtube Channel The Wall Street Journal