China's Economy

Today, China is the largest emerging country in the world. With 1.3 billion people, and a staggering annual GDP growth averaging 10%, it is establishing itself on the global scene as a major player. This dissertation aims to analyze the Chinese business environment and to give an overview of the economy of China. Historical events, the demographic reality and foreign direct investment, the internal market and the purchasing power of Chinese customers will be described. Furthermore, this paper will concentrate on the Belgian, and more specifically on the Walloon economy itself and its ties with China and the different forms of investment vehicles to China will be unfolded. In order to complete this mission, an empirical analysis was undertaken. Interviews with Walloon managers have been conducted and the data has been analyzed using a qualitative approach. These businessmen possess the necessary experience with the Chinese market and with Chinese suppliers and business partners. Along this analysis, the managers explain their initial decision to penetrate the Chinese market, the strong and weak points about their expansion to China and their future expectations of the market.