Accounting for more than a third of the world’s population, China and India have the potential to wield enormous economic and political power. China is already vying with the US for the top spot in the global economy, and on some measures has surpassed it. By the middle of the century India may be number two. How will these countries navigate their growing roles on the world stage? What are the implications for commerce, international law and the fight against climate change?

Manchester University Press and The Confucius Institute at the University of Manchester (UoM) are delighted to host a discussion between Vince Cable and Rebecca Fannin about the future of China’s economy on 1 October on UoM campus (venue to be comfirmed). The discussion will be chaired by Senior Lecturer Xiaobing Wang from the University’s Department of Economics.

Both speakers will be launching their new books. Vince Cable is launching a paperback edition of his book ‘Eclipsing the West’ (MUP, Sept 2026) with a new postscript addressing the changing global situation under Trump 2.0, this incisive book asks what the rise of the Asian superstates means for the future. Rebecca Fannin is launching ‘The New Tech Titans of China’ (Hachette UK, March 2026), “the go-to guide for those seeking to understand China’s sweeping tech ambitions, the powerful companies behind them, and the bold strategies they’re deploying-from chip self-sufficiency and surveillance tech to AI leadership and green innovation.”

Both books will be available to purchase at the event from Blackwell’s Manchester and there will be a book signing after the discussion.

Tickets are free and everyone is welcome. Students will have the opportunity to submit questions to the speakers in advance.

Manchester University Press (MUP) is a globally recognised publishing house, advancing research and learning for the benefit of society and the wider environment. Situated in the heart of one of the most vibrant universities and cities in the UK, MUP has been a beacon of scholarly achievement since its founding in 1903. They publish over 200 books and five journals each year, specialising in the Humanities and Social Sciences.

The Confucius Institute at the University of Manchester is a partnership between The University of Manchester and Beijing Normal University. Founded in 2006, our main purpose is the teaching of Chinese language through our evening classes, school partnerships and teacher training programmes. Secondly, we aim to encourage a broader and deeper understanding of Chinese culture and contemporary China through our vibrant public events programme. We are currently celebrating our 20th anniversary.