The Political Economy of Sino-South African Trade and Regional Competition

This book explores the China-South Africa trade relationship over three decades, comparing it to South Africa's relationships with other Indo-Pacific countries. Despite the growth of Asia, China remains South Africa's top trading partner, highlighting the need for in-depth analysis to understand the dynamics. The book uses quantitative data to challenge assumptions about the "new scramble for Africa" and provides insights into South Africa's trade and foreign policies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of the China-South Africa trade relationship, spanning three decades, by examining four key relationships that South Africa has with nations that have been China's most contentious neighbors in the Indo-Pacific region. As Asia emerges as a significant economic powerhouse, particularly in trade, it is intriguing to explore China's dominant position in this relationship. Despite the growth experienced by both China and its neighboring countries, China stands out as South Africa's top trading partner, as well as in most global trade partnerships. This presents a puzzle that demands thorough analysis to unravel.

To accomplish this, the book employs quantitative data to challenge prevailing notions about the "new scramble for Africa." It sheds light on the driving forces, interests, and sources of agency behind South Africa's trade and foreign policies over the past three decades. The findings offer valuable insights that can be applied to South Africa and other peer economies, which are compared throughout the book for comparative purposes.

The book's findings highlight several general patterns that are relevant to South Africa and its counterparts. These patterns include China's strategic importance in South Africa's trade and foreign policies, the role of economic interests, the influence of political factors, and the emergence of new actors and dynamics in the regional and global trade landscape. By examining these patterns, the book provides a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between China, South Africa, and the broader international context.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking book offers a valuable contribution to the study of China-South Africa relations and provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of trade and foreign policies in the region. It sheds light on the driving forces, interests, and sources of agency that shape these relationships and offers valuable lessons for policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders interested in understanding the evolving dynamics of global trade and international relations.

Weight: 313g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030980788
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022