Exovera’s report, China’s Desire for Military Control Over Commercial Launch Sector Sets New Sichuan Site on Path to Progress, examines the development of the planned “Western Commercial Spaceport” in Xichang, Sichuan Province. Backed by local and provincial governments, state-owned enterprises, and private launch firms, the project is positioned as the centerpiece of Sichuan’s effort to build a 100 billion RMB ($14 billion USD) commercial space industry by 2030. Political champions such as Deputy Party Secretary Dong Weimin have secured support from the Sichuan CPPCC and national bodies like the National Space Leading Group, which has endorsed using military launch facilities—including Xichang—for commercial purposes. Commercial companies such as i-Space, LandSpace, Galactic Energy, and CAS Space have already invested in the area, while MGCSat’s new satellite factory nears completion.
Despite these advances, questions remain over Xichang’s suitability as a high-volume commercial hub. Limitations in transportation infrastructure, reliance on rockets using toxic fuels, and high launch costs create barriers compared to sites like Hainan. However, the report highlights that the determining factor is Beijing’s insistence on maintaining military oversight over commercial launch operations, with all launches requiring PLA approval. This alignment of military interests, local political momentum, and private-sector participation suggests that while challenges persist, the Western Commercial Spaceport is still on track.
