China has rapidly transformed from stark poverty to a modern economic powerhouse, as evidenced by its glittering skyline. However, Scott Rozelle and Natalie Hell reveal in Invisible China that this transformation is more complex and concerning than it appears. The country’s growth has heavily relied on unskilled labor from rural villages, where most workers have not completed high school. This strategy has been effective for three decades, but rising unskilled wage rates are prompting companies to automate and relocate to countries with cheaper labor. A decade ago, most products in American Walmarts were made in China; today, that is changing. With the demand for labor shifting, China lacks a solid backup plan. Despite significant investments in infrastructure, the country has underinvested in its people. Recent advancements may be too late to address the issue. Extensive surveys show that while China is the world’s second-largest economy, its labor force has one of the lowest education levels among comparable nations. Over half of the population, especially children from rural areas, face low basic education levels, leaving them vulnerable as manufacturing jobs decline. Rozelle and Hell highlight an urgent humanitarian issue and potential economic crisis that could disrupt global economies and relations. Understanding China’s current situation is crucial to avert a possible international crisis. This book serves as a timely c
