Katja Drinhausen, Head of Program Politics & Society at the Mercator Institute for China Studies (MERICS), said that China remains committed to self-reliance and selective access, using global uncertainty to advance its interests. This statement was made in a commentary.
"Make no mistake: external pressure will not get China to change course on its key strategies of self-reliance and selective access to the country," said Drinhausen, Head of Program, Politics & Society. "The white paper shows that the leadership remains convinced of its path and is using the current geopolitical uncertainty to advance its interests and boost its global standing."
According to MERICS, China's economic policies emphasize self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign markets and technologies. These strategies include limiting foreign market access and increasing scrutiny of investment. Drinhausen explained that these approaches are reinforced by China's view of global geopolitical risks.
TrendEconomy reported that in 2023, Chile exported $4.54 billion worth of fish and seafood products globally, with China being the leading destination. The data indicates that Chinese demand plays a significant role in the Chilean seafood export market, influencing trade volumes and the overall structure of Chile's seafood industry.
According to NOAA Fisheries, China remains a major actor in global seafood trade as both an importer and exporter. It has been identified as a source country in cases of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The Seafood Import Monitoring Program (SIMP) Report to Congress states that China's presence in global seafood supply chains increases the risk of products derived from IUU fishing entering international markets. These activities raise concerns about the traceability and integrity of seafood supply chains, impacting the United States and other countries.
Drinhausen is Head of Program for Politics & Society at MERICS. She holds an LL.M. in international law from China University of Political Science and Law. Her research includes China's legal and governance systems and digital governance, according to MERICS.