Chinese tech a mixed blessing in the Middle East - Asia Times

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for China to dominate advanced technology manufacturing by 2025. The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the DSR, increasing China's digital projects and high-tech investment abroad. Chinese technology firms have a significant presence in the Middle East and North Africa. Since 2018, Chinese tech giants Alibaba and Baidu have invested heavily in regional commerce and telecommunications. In the post-pandemic era, the Middle East and North Africa will be more dependent on China, especially in the digital telecommunications industry. Competition between Chinese phones and other brands is limited due to the cheaper price and 5G technology offered by Chinese brands. Implementing Chinese technology in the Middle East and North Africa will not only improve countries' economies but will also contribute to improvements in education, health, transportation, agriculture and services. As China develops stronger political and economic ties with countries in the Middle East and North Africa, policymakers must consider the implications of adopting Chinese technological systems.