Extra credit Blog: China and Globalization

 

Is Globalization Good for China?

For China, economic globalization represents a natural progression of productivity and production relationships aligned with market principles. Capital inherently seeks profit, and global investors are inclined to allocate resources in countries with advanced financial systems and high consumption capacities, as these conditions promise greater returns. Meanwhile, nations with limited production factors often rely on specific comparative advantages, such as labor and natural resources.

China’s accession to the WTO marked a pivotal moment in its globalization journey. Following decades of economic reform, this step allowed China to emerge as a key player in global trade and technology exports, reinforcing its role in globalization. This relationship is mutually beneficial, with globalization facilitating China's economic transformation and China contributing to global economic integration.

The impact of globalization on China has been profound. After joining the WTO in 2001, China's economy entered a phase of rapid growth. By 2003, GDP was achieving double-digit increases, a trend that persisted until 2008. Globalization enabled China to capitalize on its comparative advantages while integrating into international markets.

The results are striking:

  • In 2000, China’s GDP was approximately $9.9 trillion.
  • By 2008, it reached $30 trillion.
  • By 2020, it had surged to $101 trillion, marking a 20-fold increase over two decades.

Globalization has also influenced China's industrial structure. The international division of labor has led to the segmentation of production processes, with each country's resource endowments and comparative advantages shaping global value chains. This reconfiguration has significantly affected China’s economy, with the secondary (manufacturing) sector thriving under global integration, while the tertiary (service) sector expands during periods of slowed globalization.

Is China Good for Globalization?

Globalization stands at a crossroads, facing challenges such as shifting trade dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world's second-largest economy, China has addressed these challenges by advocating for free trade, international talent flow, and active participation in global governance. Recognizing its role as a major beneficiary of globalization, China has declared its commitment to defending and advancing the globalization process.

Historically, China’s contribution to global economic growth was modest. During the 1980s and 1990s, it accounted for just 3% of global nominal growth, while the U.S. contributed over 30%. However, this dynamic shifted dramatically in the 21st century:

  • By the early 2000s, China’s share of global nominal growth rose to over 9%, nearly one-tenth of the total.
  • By 2015, after the global financial crisis, China’s contribution reached 47%, nearly half of global nominal growth, surpassing the U.S. as the largest contributor.

While the U.S. experienced a relative decline in its share of global growth—from one-third to one-fifth during this period—China solidified its position as a cornerstone of the global economy. By leveraging its strengths and actively engaging in global governance, China has not only benefited from globalization but has also played a vital role in shaping its current and future trajectory.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

What is the relation between politics and globalization? QU HONGYU

What is the relation between economy and globalization? QU HONGYU

What is the relation between economy and globalization? SHENZIHE