The Response: Maximizing Benefits, Minimizing Concerns

Abstract

Are Chinese companies’ investments in the West a good thing? Unfortunately, it takes more than a simple “yes” or “no” to answer this question. The West has much to gain from the global emergence of Chinese companies, including more jobs, tax revenues, improved infrastructure, and new market access. However, there are valid reasons why Chinese investments should not all be welcomed, such as concerns about national security, cyber-security, and anti-competitiveness. Targeted efforts must be made to ensure that Chinese investment in the West is mutually beneficial at the government, corporate, and individual levels. This chapter provides practical recommendations about how the West and China should both respond in the years and decades ahead to maximize the benefits of Chinese investment while minimizing concerns.