China is stepping up development of 3D printing, challenging the US' lead in applying the technology in manufacturing. It is estimated that about 17000, mostly personal, 3D printers are in operation in China. The US has about 47000 and nearly half of them are used in manufacturing. Yet China is closing the gap. The country's stock of 3D printers has grown more than sevenfold since 2008.
The 3D priting can help maintain China's status as "the factory of the world" while expanding its manufacturing beyond labor-intensive assembly lines.
Written by Dore Men
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