IE University and CKGSB launch report on the role of high-tech companies in China-US global relations

IE China Center of IE University has launched the report in collaboration with Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business (CKGSB) "Fuel the Soft Power: The Role of High-Tech Companies in the Soft Power Rivalry between China and the United States." 

The report, featuring contributions from academics and policy experts, provides perspectives on the evolving dynamics of soft power between China and the United States, emphasizing the pivotal role played by high-tech companies in shaping global influence.

José Félix Valdivieso, Chairman of IE China Center, highlights China's unique approach soft power approach, noting, "China's approach differs from the West's as it invokes a soft power model characterized by a priority on economic development and the maintenance of strong government leadership."

CKGSB Professor Shi Weilei’s discusses the interplay between sustainable value creation and GDP growth. He suggests, “China should explain its high performance not as isolated success stories – such as its successful partnership at the port of Haifa or its quantum computing powers – but rather through the lens of sustainable value creation.”

CKGSB Professor Tao Zhigang’s article emphasizes that media biases often distort soft power dynamics between China and the U.S. He explains that the narrative around U.S. job losses and China's regulatory actions against monopolies is often skewed, and requires a more balanced perspective.

IE University’s Professor of Leadership, Ma Bin’s article, based on an extensive survey of 1,480 individuals, analyzes public perceptions on the soft power wielded by China and the US. He observes: 

“The United States holds dominance in overall soft power. However, emerging economies like Mexico and South Africa show a higher favorability towards China. This could be attributed to China’s increasing investment and economic collaborations in these regions.”

View the report here.

CKGSB is China's first privately-funded and research-focused business school with over 40 full-time faculty members dedicated to gaining a deeper understanding of the various areas in business management from a global perspective.

IE China Center fosters cross-cultural understanding and collaboration between China and the rest of the world. Through its programs and initiatives, this IE University Center of Excellence empowers individuals and organizations with the skills to navigate the complexities of the Chinese market.