Geopolitics, Supply Chains, and International Relations in East Asia

Geopolitics, supply chains, and international relations in East Asia explore the effects of disruptions on these networks, highlighting the potential for conflicts and cooperation. The rise of hyper-nationalism in the US and China threatens global production and international relations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 319 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Global supply chains have become an integral part of the interconnected world, forming intricate networks that connect countries and regions. However, despite their significant growth and complexity, the role of supply chains in broader patterns of interstate conflict and cooperation has received relatively limited attention. In "Geopolitics, Supply Chains, and International Relations in East Asia," the authors aim to shed light on the sources and consequences of contemporary disruptions to these networks.

Despite their distinctiveness, complexity, and uniqueness as mechanisms of economic interdependence, supply chains have played a relatively minor role in understanding interstate conflict and cooperation. This volume seeks to address this gap by examining whether a highly interconnected "Factory Asia" and the Asia-Pacific region can withstand geopolitical, geo-economic, and pandemic threats.

The rise of hyper-nationalism in the United States and China has created a combustible mix that threatens to disrupt the global geography of production and undermine the international relations of East Asia. The authors argue that the increasing interdependence of these regions, coupled with the growing competition for resources and markets, increases the risk of conflicts and tensions.

One of the key challenges facing supply chains in East Asia is the geopolitical risk. The region is home to several major powers, including China, the United States, Japan, and Russia, and their interactions can have significant implications for global supply chains. For example, trade tensions between the US and China have led to disruptions in the global supply chain, with companies facing tariffs, quotas, and other trade restrictions.

Geopolitical risks can also manifest in the form of natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and pandemics. These events can disrupt supply chains, leading to shortages of goods and services and causing economic damage. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains, with many companies experiencing disruptions and shortages of essential goods.

Another challenge facing supply chains in East Asia is the geo-economic risk. The region is home to many rapidly developing economies, such as China, India, and Indonesia, which are increasingly competing for resources and markets. This competition can lead to tensions and conflicts, particularly over territorial claims and access to natural resources. For example, the South China Sea dispute between China and several other countries has raised concerns about the stability of supply chains in the region.

In addition to geopolitical and geo-economic risks, supply chains in East Asia are also vulnerable to pandemic threats. The region is home to a large population, which makes it susceptible to the spread of diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of resilient supply chains, with companies investing in measures to ensure that their supply chains are able to withstand disruptions caused by pandemics.

To mitigate the risks associated with supply chains in East Asia, the authors suggest several measures. These include promoting regional cooperation and dialogue, building resilience into supply chains, and investing in infrastructure and technology to improve connectivity.

In conclusion, "Geopolitics, Supply Chains, and International Relations in East Asia" provides valuable insights into the sources and consequences of contemporary disruptions to global supply chains. The rise of hyper-nationalism in the US and China, coupled with geopolitical, geo-economic, and pandemic threats, has created a complex and challenging environment for supply chains in East Asia. By examining the role of supply chains in broader patterns of interstate conflict and cooperation, this volume aims to contribute to understanding the dynamics of the region and developing strategies to mitigate the risks associated with these networks.

Weight: 474g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108984829