Zhongguancun (‰∏≠ÂÖ≥Êùë), the so-called “Silicon Valley of China” located in northwest Beijing, is slated to become a “world center of R&D” within ten years. This new goal was announced at the 7th annual Zhongguancun Computer Festival (ÁîµËÑëËäÇ).

At the same time, however, new questions are being raised about the viability of the Zhongguancun model. In his new book The Decline of Zhongguancun (‰∏≠ÂÖ≥Êù맱ËêΩ), technology critic Fang Xingdong (ÊñπÂÖ¥‰∏ú) argues that the high-tech zone is being eclipsed by Shanghai and Shenzhen. According to Fang, it no longer leads as a center for venture capital, and it neglects “grassroots enterprises” in favor of land speculation and attracting large, established corporations.

A full discussion is available in this China Youth Daily article.