Amid its ongoing economic development and military modernization, China has emerged as one of a handful of global leaders in the development of unmanned systems. As China continues to advance its UAV technology, it is poised to play a dominant role in shaping industry trends.
Decades of economic growth coupled with its ongoing military modernization have enabled China to emerge as a major player in the global arms trade. Between 2008 and 2017, China exported some $14.4 billion worth of conventional weapons across the globe, making it the 5th largest arms supplier in the world.
The prosperity of any economy relies on a variety of factors that drive productivity. One way of measuring these elements is by examining competitiveness. This feature uses data from the World Economic Forum to assess China’s competitiveness in terms of the institutions, policies, and other components that support its economic output.
International sports competitions provide countries with opportunities to showcase the best of their nation to the rest of the world. For China, which often struggles to cultivate a positive image of itself, success at these competitions hinges on what happens both inside and outside of the stadium.
Encouraged by Beijing’s “Go Global” strategy, Chinese firms have expanded into foreign markets to acquire resources and assets while spurring domestic innovation. Overseas investment allows China to bolster its own economy and leverage its economic power to expand its influence abroad.
R&D is the backbone of innovation. It supports the development of new scientific methods, technologies, and commercial goods – all of which can boost economic productivity and raise living standards. After decades of export-led growth, China is increasingly turning to innovation as a driver for its economy.
China is seeking to enhance its domestic capacity for scientific and technological innovation by building a permanent manned space station. Developing further space capabilities can enhance China’s international prestige and enhance its technological prowess.
China’s emergence as a global power is likely to be one of the most consequential factors in twenty-first century international politics. Yet questions persist as to whether China is now a developed country. Learn more about China’s level of development with this ChinaPower exclusive.
