CHINA'S DIGITAL TRADE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEW ERA

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https://doi.org/10.51198/chinesest2024.04.006

  O. Drobotiuk

A. Yu. Krymskyi Institute of Oriental Studies of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine

  V. Osadchuk

Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman

Abstract

The article examines the dynamic development of China’s digital trade, emphasizing its role as a global leader in cross-border e-commerce and digital services. Understanding China’s achievements and challenges in this field is crucial for shaping future approaches to international trade. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including a literature review, statistical analysis, and expert survey involving Ukrainian sinologists and economists, the study analyses the evolution of governmental policies concerning trade digitalization while conducting a comprehensive assessment of China's current digital trade development and its developmental potential. The study highlights China’s accomplishments in building a robust digital infrastructure, supported by government policies, significant investments in R&D, and innovations in logistics. Using a comprehensive methodological approach, including literature review, statistical analysis, and expert surveys, the research explores China's digital trade development, cross-border e-commerce, and digitally deliverable services. It presents a statistical analysis of cross-border e-commerce and digital services from 2018 to 2023, demonstrating high growth rates in exports and imports. Key trends are identified, including the dominance of telecommunications, computer, and information services in exports and the diversification of imported digital services. The UN Trade Digitalization Index and other global indicators are used to contextualize China’s position in international trade. A comprehensive SWOT analysis, complemented by a TOWS matrix, was conducted based on expert survey data to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in China's digital trade sector, thereby providing a strategic assessment of its development prospects. China’s progress in digital trade underscores the importance of integrating technology, policy, and market development. Despite challenges such as reliance on foreign technologies, uneven access to digital resources, and cybersecurity risks, the country has significant opportunities in artificial intelligence, financial technologies, and global partnerships. Strategic efforts in fostering innovation, addressing inequalities, and expanding international integration can strengthen China’s position as a leader in digital trade and contribute to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable digital economy.

How to Cite

Drobotiuk, O., & Osadchuk, V. (2024). CHINA’S DIGITAL TRADE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEW ERA. Chinese Studies, (4), 5-25. https://doi.org/10.51198/chinesest2024.04.006
Article views: 54 | PDF Downloads: 23

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Keywords

China, cross-border e-commerce, digital economy, digitalization of trade, Xi’s new era

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Issue
No. 4 (2024): Chinese Studies