№148: Many Belts and Many Roads: The Proliferation of Infrastructure Initiatives in Asia
№148: Many Belts and Many Roads: The Proliferation of Infrastructure Initiatives in Asia

Author(s): Justyna Szczudlik
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economic policy, International relations/trade
Published by: PISM Polski Instytut Spraw Międzynarodowych
Keywords: China; India; Japan; South Korea; ASEAN, Asia; East Asia
Summary/Abstract: Asia could be described as the world’s great construction site, and is already the focus of a scramble for infrastructure projects. Among countries competing for investments are not only China with its Silk Road initiative, but also Korea, Japan, India and ASEAN, which have prepared their own infrastructural strategies. The plethora of initiatives may have a positive impact on Asia, offering diverse solutions to the infrastructural bottleneck and reforms of existing institutions and modes of assistance. But there is also the risk that fierce competition may result in unprofitable projects, while economic slowdown could cause a decline in funding. For Europe these initiatives create opportunities to take part in new projects, but the EU should be aware that the projects will be implemented mainly in Asia and by Asian countries.

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