China's Digital Silk Road.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) originated as a plan to build transport infrastructure across Eurasia and the Indian Ocean rim. However, it has acquired a digital component as policymakers and executives in the telecoms, technology and space sectors jump on the bandwagon and roll out ambitious internationalisation plans.
Cyberattacks could be a problem for the new digital infrastructure given China's poor record in cybersecurity.
The innovative capability of Chinese firms and their expertise in working in difficult business environments should not be underestimated.
Advanced-country governments and businesses will face increasing competition in Eurasia.
China could eventually become a source of high-quality technology standards and regulations with a global impact, like the EU today.
E-commerce services will give small firms better access to international markets, bypassing traditional multinational gatekeepers.
