A new-generation intelligent manufacturing, characterized by the marriage of the next-generation artificial intelligence technology and advanced manufacturing industry, is emerging and becoming the core technology of the fourth industrial revolution. China’s manufacturing industry as a whole is big but not strong. The development of intelligent manufacturing can promote China’s manufacturing industry by improving both quality and efficiency, and ultimately, is the main path for the transformation and upgrading of China’s manufacturing industry. Intelligent production is a major component of intelligent manufacturing, while intelligent factory is the carrier for intelligent production. This paper focuses on the development strategy for smart factories in discrete manufacturing. First, the concept of intelligent factory is introduced, with its basic structure, information system architecture, and basic characteristics in discrete manufacturing discussed. Then, the key breakthrough directions and the implementation plan for intelligent factory are laid out. Finally, following suggestions are provided for policy makers to develop intelligent factory: ① actively support and guide the development of intelligent manufacturing through pilot and demonstration projects, and promote the formation of an ecological chain for intelligent manufacturing with regional advantages; ② encourage enterprises to build intelligent factories to construct technological competitive advantages and enhance economic benefits; ③ establish and improve the synergy mechanism for innovation; ④ highlight the Made-in-China capabilities for core technologies, key equipment components, and industrial software.