Value Chains Transformation and Transport Reconnection in Eurasia: Geo-economic and Geopolitical Implications

This book examines the geo-economic and geopolitical impact of value chains transformation on the transport-logistic reintegration of continental Eurasian countries,with a specific focus on the Eurasian Economic Union. It argues that the key to successful integration is participation in intraregional and transregional cross-border value chains,and that economic complementarities between continental Eurasia and the two manufacturing blocks at the edges of the supercontinent represent the greatest chance for larger participation in high-value-added value chains. It also warns that shifting value chains location and China's ambiguous transport politics could turn an unprecedented chance into risk.

Format: Hardback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the profound geo-economic and geopolitical implications of the transformation of value chains on the transport-logistic reintegration of continental Eurasian countries, with a special emphasis on the members of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The author conducts a thorough assessment of the potential impact of current trends, such as the fragmentation and decoupling of global value chains, on the integration of transport within Eurasia. By combining in-depth analysis of the evolution of value chains and transport-logistics corridors across Eurasia with a geopolitical perspective, the book offers valuable insights into the foreign and economic policy orientations of the EAEU members.

The author explores three key arguments:

Firstly, the author emphasizes that the key to a successful and sustainable integration of the transport space of continental Eurasia lies in participating in intraregional and transregional cross-border value chains, rather than solely relying on the expansion of transcontinental transit. While transcontinental transit plays a significant role, it is increasingly intertwined with the geopolitical and geo-economic orientation of continental Eurasia.

Secondly, even in a more regionalized world economy, the economic complementarities between continental Eurasia and the two manufacturing blocks at the edges of the supercontinent, Europe and Asia, represent the greatest opportunity for continental Eurasia to participate in high-value-added value chains. The author argues that the EAEU members can leverage their strategic location and proximity to these manufacturing blocks to enhance their participation in global value chains and foster economic growth.

Thirdly, the author cautions that without diversifying trade and financial ties across Asia and normalizing relations with the European Union (EU), the combined effect of shifting value chains location across the continent and China's ambiguous and flexible transport politics could turn an unprecedented opportunity into a risk. The competition among and within EAEU members over traffic volume, foreign direct investment (FDI), value chain participation, and ultimately geopolitical and geo-eco-political influence could intensify.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the understanding of the complex dynamics shaping the transport-logistic reintegration of continental Eurasia. By examining the geo-economic and geopolitical implications of value chains transformation, it offers insightful recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to promote sustainable development and enhance the competitiveness of the EAEU members in the global economy.

Weight: 226g
Dimension: 143 x 223 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367651664