China is home to one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-paced economies. Its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is second only to the United States and a staggering four times that of Japan – which is next on the list.
The country is home to over a billion people and is regarded as one of the world’s oldest civilisations. Despite being known for its hyper-productive work culture, life for average Chinese people is rich and full of colour.
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Here’s everything you need to know about the “C” in BRICS
History of China
China is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisations. By some estimates, it dates back more than 3,500 years. China, officially known as the People’s Republic of China, is the world’s second most populous country, with over 1.4 billion people.
China: Economic and technological superpower
China’s economy is known for its manufacturing sector and large-scale infrastructure projects. It’s also a global technology hub, with significant contributions to AI, telecommunications, and e-commerce.
China also has vast experience in large-scale infrastructure projects, like the Belt and Road Initiative so that it can provide valuable insights and resources for infrastructure development in the BRICS countries.
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Marketplace
China’s large population offers a huge consumer base for products and services from the BRICS countries, potentially driving growth in these economies.
International Relations at Renmin University. Prof. Jin Canrong says BRICS is influential in political, economic, and strategic aspects.
“From a political perspective, developing countries have a platform for discussion through BRICS. Strategically, the international impact will be significant once the five BRICS countries take unanimous action, said Prof. Jin.
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Some economists now believe that if evaluated by purchasing power parity , the GDP of the BRICS countries have already surpassed that of the G7. Therefore, the strategic significance of the unity among the BRICS nations is of paramount importance.
It not only possesses excellent strategic autonomy but also demonstrates remarkable capabilities in various other aspects, such as its military prowess.
“Personally, I believe China’s military capabilities rank second in the world. Taking the navy as an example, the U.S. currently stands at about 3.5 million tons, while China is at approximately 3.29 million tons,” said Prof Jin.
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In fact, in terms of naval development, it’s already a duopoly between China and the U.S. Therefore, China’s size determines its significant role within the BRICS in economic, military, scientific, technological, and strategic aspects.
“The country plays a weighty role in commerce, and we emphasise this subjectively and are very willing to cooperate,” concluded Canrong.
*Lisa Pan is from China Academy
