Analysing the Evolutionary Structure of the China–ASEAN Investment and Trade Networks: China’s Changing Position

Abstract:This article examines international economic relations, particularly those between China and ASEAN, by using an analytical framework for investment and trade networks. It discovers that connection density and network concentration increase with trade and investment. It finds that (i) the synergy of the Belt and Road Initiative will open new prospects for China–ASEAN investment and trade relations; (ii) China, Japan and the United States should become investment and trade partners rather than competitors with regard to ASEAN. This study provides directions for research on international economic ties and makes available new scientific perceptions and policy development for China in handling complicated international investment and trade relations.