The State Council, China's cabinet, recently announced the establishment of a national leading group for the upgrading of the country's manufacturing sector, with Vice-Premier Ma Kai appointed as head of the group. Analysts say it indicates the Made in China 2025 strategy, China's version of Germany's Industry 4.0 project, is now being implemented.

According to the State Council's announcement, the leading group is based in the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The group's main responsibilities will be planning and coordinating the overall work to raise the country's manufacturing power; reviewing and propelling major manufacturing projects, directing relevant works in various regions and sectors; and supervising and inspecting the implementation of major tasks.

The leading group is expected to draw up plans for new industries, coordinate and direct the transition to smart manufacturing and the utilization of the technology and resource advantages of different sectors and regions. It's predicted that supportive policies and plans for various industries will be introduced in the near future.