MERICS Members Briefing – China Essentials: Beijing expands security-first economic policy

On April 28 from 9:00 to 9:30 CET, MERICS held an exclusive 30-minute online briefing on Beijing’s security-first economic policy and its impact on international companies. Based on the latest edition of the MERICS China Essentials, our regular digest of key developments in China, MERICS experts provided an update on how Beijing is reshaping its economic strategy and the global implications of this shift.

Recent regulations issued by the State Council mark a significant expansion of Beijing’s national and economic security toolkit, aimed at countering sanctions risks, strengthening the country’s ability to protect supply chains, and deterring foreign de-risking. These developments underscore China’s growing commitment to a “security first” approach to economic policymaking.

Our briefing examined the intensity of Xi Jinping’s effort to expand China’s security-driven regulatory reach and target perceived infractions by foreign governments, individuals and companies. This shift is transforming the operating environment and reshaping the risks for international companies operating, as they find themselves increasingly torn between the de-risking regimes of their home markets and the coercive compliance measures of the Chinese state.  

Speakers:

• Rebecca Arcesati, Head of the Science, Technology and Innovation Program (Co-lead), MERICS
• Katja Drinhausen, Head of the Politics and Society Program, MERICS
• Jacob Gunter, Head of the Economy and Industry Program, MERICS

The event was held in English. This event is part of our portfolio for MERICS Members and partners.