Renmin University economics professor Nie Huihua argues that conventional Western analytical frameworks are insufficient for understanding China’s developmental success. She posits that China’s governance is a unique system integrating formal institutions with informal, grassroots practices and a strong cultural emphasis on collectivism. This combination, according to Nie, creates a cohesive and adaptable system distinct from Western approaches. Her analysis challenges the assumption that Western models are universally applicable to economic and political development. Nie, despite receiving economics training at Harvard, advocates for a move away from Western-centric perspectives. This perspective is part of the SCMP Plus “Open Questions” series, offering early access to in-depth analysis. Ultimately, she suggests this integrated system is key to China’s ongoing innovation.