In addition to the historic Silk Road, which was the most important trade link between Europe and Asia from the 2nd century BC to the 13th century, the People’s Republic of China has been driving a global infrastructure project under the name ‘New Silk Road’ or ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ for several years now. In terms of foreign and economic policy, China wants to increase global demand for Chinese products through more diverse and better transport routes, secure access to raw materials and, not least, minimize the risk of possible blockades of maritime routes (for example by the USA) by expanding trade links over land. In other words, the ‘New Silk Road’ is the infrastructural basis for (even) better integration of China in global value chains. Along the various routes, production centers are being created through which raw materials, precursors and end products can be transported faster and more reliably and connected to the target markets.
The study shows that the Chinese textile industry benefits from the New Silk Road’, as exports and imports of goods are facilitated through better trade routes and Chinese investments in the textile industry of the Silk Road partner countries are made possible. This is a double-edged sword. Economic development, which the Cambodian government hopes for and can be observed in Xinjiang, only contributes to sustainable development if human and labour rights are taken into account, local populations are involved and good environmental standards are adhered to.
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