China seeks high-tech upper hand in industry carrying 80% of global trade
Beijing has cast its smart-port push as a way for countries to boost trade
China seeks dominance in high-tech industry that handles 80% of global trade. Beijing has set its sights on building smart ports equipped with cutting-edge hardware and software. The Mawan Terminal in Shenzhen, featuring driverless trucks, remote-controlled cranes, and AI-powered systems, is a prime example. Beijing aims to lead in a digital transformation of maritime trade, with the goal of 90 automated terminals by 2030.
The country currently boasts 60 automated terminals, more than any other nation. China's push into high-tech ports has raised concerns in the West, particularly about potential strategic leverage and economic coercion. Some experts warn that Beijing's dominance could create vulnerabilities, such as backdoors for spying or disruption in trade networks during crises.
However, China remains undeterred, focusing on international collaborations and financing to expand its influence. The country has invested billions in port equipment and technology across 47 countries, with a specific focus on replacing foreign software systems to gain a competitive edge. Despite some challenges in gaining traction in terminal operating systems, China's long-term strategy and financial firepower position it as a formidable player in the global port and shipping competition.
Written by urgent.news from The Business Times - Companies & Markets's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
