Mapping Chinese Investment in South Asia

This book explores Chinese investment in South Asia, analyzing factors such as trade expansion, infrastructure investment, and apprehension about Chinese investment. It discusses the causes and effects of such investment and addresses concerns about its impact on the region.

Format: Hardback
Length: 207 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the remarkable surge of Chinese investment in the South Asian region in recent years. It conducts a detailed country-by-country analysis of the factors that have fueled this growth, exploring the nature and impact of Chinese investment in enhancing regional trade. Furthermore, it delves into the intricacies of Chinese infrastructure investment through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Despite being a major investor in numerous countries, Chinese investment has faced some skepticism and apprehension. Countries have been compelled to suspend China-funded projects or revise their investment policies due to these concerns. This book aims to address these critical issues while examining the underlying causes and consequences of Chinese investment in the region.

The book begins by providing a historical backdrop, tracing the origins and evolution of Chinese investment in South Asia. It highlights the significant changes in China's economic and political landscape, as well as the country's growing appetite for foreign investment, that have driven this investment boom. The authors then examine the various factors that have contributed to Chinese investment in the region, including economic incentives, political ties, and strategic interests.

One of the key findings of the book is that Chinese investment in South Asia has been driven by the pursuit of economic growth and development. The region offers a vast market with a growing middle class, providing a potential for Chinese companies to expand their business operations. Additionally, South Asia's strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa makes it an important hub for trade and commerce, which has attracted Chinese investment.

The book also explores the nature and role of Chinese investment in expanding trade in the region. It highlights the importance of infrastructure development in facilitating trade and promoting economic growth. Chinese investment in infrastructure projects, such as highways, ports, and power plants, has helped to improve connectivity and efficiency in the region, enabling businesses to operate more effectively.

However, Chinese investment has not been without its challenges. One of the main concerns is the impact on local industries and employment. While Chinese investment has created job opportunities in the region, it has also led to the displacement of local workers and the closure of some businesses. This has raised concerns about the potential for economic inequality and social unrest.

Another concern is the environmental and social impact of Chinese investment. Some projects have been criticized for causing environmental damage and displacing local communities. There are also concerns about the human rights records of Chinese companies and the impact of their investment on local governance and democracy.

To address these challenges, the book proposes several policy recommendations. It calls for greater transparency and accountability in Chinese investment, including measures to protect local industries and workers. It also suggests that countries should engage in more dialogue and cooperation with China to ensure that investment is aligned with their own development goals and values.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the growing trend of Chinese investment in the South Asian region. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the factors that have driven this investment, as well as the nature and role of such investment in expanding trade and promoting economic growth. While Chinese investment has brought many benefits, it is important to address the challenges and concerns associated with it to ensure that it benefits all stakeholders.

Weight: 421g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819913848
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023