Trade, tech, geopolitics: A rising China tide isn’t lifting all boats

China's burgeoning economy, fueled by innovation and scale, is reshaping the global landscape, but not all nations are benefiting equally. This complex dynamic is the focus of a recent joint episode of The Straits Times' Asian Insider podcast and Radio Davos, featuring insights from Qian Liu of Wusawa Advisory.

Recorded in late June at the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions in Dalian, the discussion delves into the mainland's internal economic pressures. High youth unemployment and lagging domestic consumption present significant challenges, even as China's economy continues to innovate and expand its global reach. The conversation also explores the potential for female leadership to drive China's next phase of growth.

Veteran columnist Ravi Velloor, joined by the World Economic Forum's Robin Pomeroy, distills decades of experience covering Asia. They engage with Liu on a range of topics, from the prospects of China's property market and the impact of electric vehicles to the concept of 'involution', a term describing a state of stagnation or diminishing returns. The episode also touches on Europe's perceived negativity and China's strategic observation of global events.

Further insights include discussions on the trade of goods like EVs and cognac, the cultural phenomenon of 'involution,' and geopolitical considerations. The podcast highlights the multifaceted nature of China's economic influence, acknowledging both its outward-facing successes and its internal complexities, while also considering the role of women in its future economic trajectory.