Question

The Chinese model for economic development is appreciated by many scholars and policy makers. What two arguments can you put forward to support the Chinese model.

Answer 1

Political system

The non-democratic and authoritarian political regime in China has meant that it's been possible to embrace western-style free market economics while maintaining control over the form of government . In some ways , the planned economy of China (where the state controls economic activity instead of private business) has accelerated economic process because the govt has controlled all decision-making. Since Mao in 1953, the govt has followed a series of 5 Year Plans (or Guidelines, as they're now called, to reflect China’s transition towards a ‘socialist market economy’) which have enabled the government to enact any reforms it feels is necessary. The country is now in its 12th Five Year Plan (2011-2016) and policies include spending 2.2% of GDP on R&D (Research and Development) and moving coastal regions from being ‘the world’s factory’ to being hubs of R&D, top-end specialist manufacturing and services.

Population growth

Rapid increase in China, despite the One Child Policy, has resulted in very large numbers within the economically active population, resulting in rapid urbanisation. This has fuelled further industrialisation, allowing for further population growth.

Geographers, always categorise these factors (Social, Economic, Environmental, Political), rank them, draw links between them and consider the players and stakeholders involved. We will then have an in depth understanding of the factors which have enabled China to pursue an accelerated path to economic development.

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