Economist Podcasts Xi says: who will succeed him?
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Apr 3, 2026 
James Miles, a China politics writer, tracks Xi Jinping’s latest power reshuffle and the growing mystery around who could follow him. Guy Scriven, a business and tech writer, explores why Europe may finally have a shot at building stronger tech champions. There’s also a look at Michel Rolland, the influential winemaker who changed global tastes.
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Xi Is Rebuilding The Elite Without A Successor
- James Miles says Xi Jinping is set to refill the top ranks with loyalists, not younger heirs apparent.
- Xi already packed the 2022 Politburo with yes-men, making a 2032 succession lineup unlikely.
The Military Commission Reveals Xi's Real Intentions
- The clearest succession signal would be adding a civilian besides Xi Jinping to the Central Military Commission, but that has not happened.
- James Miles says Xi is fostering a gerontocracy and is least likely to surrender command of the armed forces.
Xi's Succession Trap Raises Risk Of Upheaval
- China's system makes succession dangerous either way: naming an heir creates tension, but naming none invites a fight after the leader exits.
- James Miles says purges hit about a fifth of the Central Committee and perhaps half the PLA's top leaders, raising chances of surprises.