Chinese Development and PL A Enterprises: Security Prospects and Implications

Abstract

In the past decade the erupting economic development in Asia has raised both hopes for peace through increased interdependence and fears of increased competition and conflict. The premiere focus of these hopes and fears has been the development of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Most hope that growing trade with the PRC and a policy of "constructive engagement" will encourage a liberalization of Chinese domestic policy, and eventually, democracy. But a closer look at the patterns of Chinese economic liberalization and development and those Chinese firms engaged in production and trade call into question the prospects for peaceful developments. In particular, the People's Liberation Army (PLA), China's military arm, has been a driving force behind China's burgeoning domestic markets and foreign trade. The importance of the PLA is vital to the future outlook of China's domestic situation, regional stability, international cooperation, and arms proliferation. Furthermore, the latter issues warrant careful reviews of current export control policy and procedures.