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From the “world’s factory” to the “global office”: China’s role in international trade in services
https://doi.org/10.32609/0042-8736-2026-3-25-43
Abstract
The article analyzes the state and dynamics of China’s service sector develop ment as a key factor in enhancing the country’s international competitiveness. The study examines the parameters of China’s participation in international trade in services, which still lags significantly behind trade in goods. Nevertheless, the country places great emphasis on trade in services for a range of strategic, economic, and political reasons. China’s WTO commitments stimulated reforms aimed at market liberalization and attracting foreign direct investment. The country’s current specialization is concentrated in sectors such as construction, ICT, and transport. However, China tries to transit towards the export of higher value-added services, especially digital ones. The authors conclude that China’s further progress in international trade in services will be determined by the suc cessful development of its financial and tourism sectors, as well as its ability to enhance competitiveness in high-tech segments.
About the Authors
O. V. Biryukova
HSE University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Olga V. Biryukova
Moscow
D. V. Zharonkina
HSE University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Darya V. Zharonkina
Moscow
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For citations:
Biryukova O.V., Zharonkina D.V. From the “world’s factory” to the “global office”: China’s role in international trade in services. Voprosy Ekonomiki. 2026;(3):25-43. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.32609/0042-8736-2026-3-25-43
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