Over the past few decades, many parts of the United States, especially industrial bases, have been struggling due to the impact of low-priced imported goods brought about by globalization. From textile mills in North Carolina to automobile manufacturing in Michigan, the loss of a large number of jobs has dealt a heavy blow to local economies and communities. However, with government subsidies and support for strategic industries and an influx of investment in cutting-edge technology, some of the hardest-hit areas are gradually ushering in the dawn of industrial renaissance.

Transformation of industrial powerhouses: The rise of biotechnology and clean energy in North Carolina

Chatham County, North Carolina, was hit by the decline of the furniture and textile industries. However, in recent years, the introduction of high-tech industries including biotechnology, computer chips and electric vehicles has gradually changed the economic structure here. For example, semiconductor manufacturer Wolfspeed invested $5 billion to build a factory in Chatham County, which is expected to create 1,800 long-term jobs. These investments not only brought new development opportunities to the local area, but also provided support for infrastructure construction.

The reason behind this transformation is the government's policy promotion and subsidy support. Research by the Brookings Institution shows that areas threatened by the "new round of China shock" have become the focus of investment. The so-called "China shock" refers to the impact of low-priced imported goods on the US manufacturing industry since China joined the global trade system. To alleviate this impact, the Biden administration has increased subsidies for strategic industries such as chips and electric vehicles to attract investment and enhance competitiveness.

New economic layout: transformation from rust belt to battery belt

In the rust belt region of the United States, electric vehicle and battery manufacturing industries are also gradually replacing the position of traditional manufacturing. In Flint, Michigan, new energy company NanoGraf is building a battery anode production plant, planning to provide key components for electric vehicles. The factory is built on the site of the former Buick City, a place that once symbolized the prosperity of the US auto industry.

The project is not only the birth of a factory, but also a symbol of the recovery of the local economy. NanoGraf's CEO pointed out that the selection of this historic location not only demonstrates the confidence of the new energy industry in the future, but also symbolizes the transition from the "rust belt" to the "battery belt". Through the skills training program of the local community college, many locals have obtained the skills required for new positions and have become an important pillar of the local economy again.

Government support and international trade policy: the dialectical development of industrial policy

The policies of the US government have also played a key role in this. Research by the Brookings Institution shows that the Biden administration's Chips and Science Act has promoted investment in semiconductors and electric vehicles. These policies not only help the economic revival of traditional industrial areas, but also stimulate growth in key areas through high subsidies, trying to maintain advantages in global competition.

Unlike the policies of the Biden administration, former President Trump's high tariff strategy is intended to protect the US manufacturing industry from import shocks. Economists warn that high tariff policies may increase commodity prices and affect the living burden of the middle class, while also weakening the competitiveness of some US companies that rely on imported parts. While retaining some tariffs, the Biden administration encourages the production of strategic products in the United States to balance costs and competitive advantages. However, this move has also faced pressure and criticism from international trading partners, and it is seen as a protectionist move that may affect relations with allies.

The challenge of continuous transformation: community revitalization and psychological changes

In addition to economic improvements, the return of these factories is also injecting confidence into local communities. Many American industrial towns have gradually declined due to factory relocation in the past, and rising unemployment has worsened the psychological state of the community. In Flint, new factories have brought jobs to the community, allowing people to see the possibility of economic prosperity again.

This transformation is not just about increasing job opportunities, but also about how to rebuild confidence in the community and how to attract the younger generation to these emerging industries. Community colleges work with local governments to provide professional training to help workers acquire the skills needed for new jobs, and are gradually forming a new economic cluster with high-tech manufacturing as the core.

Towards a green and digital industrial cluster

The US manufacturing industry is transforming towards green, digital and high-tech. From electric vehicles to clean energy batteries, the United States is accelerating the establishment of a new manufacturing ecosystem. As global market competition intensifies, China, Europe and other places are also vigorously promoting green technology. In the next few years, the global manufacturing landscape may usher in further changes.

Although this road still faces challenges, examples from Chatham County to Flint show that strategic investment and community collaboration are the key to local economic transformation. In the ever-changing global economy, whether the US manufacturing industry can successfully adapt to the requirements of the new era will determine whether it can truly open a new chapter.