Around 80% of China’s oil imports and trade routes with Europe, Middle East, and Africa traverse the Indian Ocean. Through its Maritime Silk Road, China has invested in ports in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Eastern Africa, and Myanmar, along with a naval base in Djibouti. Access to emerging markets is critical to China’s transformative economic strategy and reduce its reliance on U.S. and Europe for demand. As the Indian Ocean becomes a focal point for trade and investment, American and Chinese military attention will also shift there.
Will the geopolitical centre of gravity shift that shifted from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean post-World War now move towards the Indian Ocean?
Featuring Robin Hu, Asia Chair, Milken Institute; Advisor Senior Director, Temasek.
Moderated by Dr Owi Ruivivar, Chief Portfolio Strategist, Bank of Singapore.
