Impact of China's OBOR strategy : the impact of China's belt and road initiative - geopolitical and economical impact

The project will be split into three parts: 1. The first paper will be focusing on how BRI impact shipping economically and geopolitically. 2. The second paper will be addressing the impacts of BRI on the dry bulk industry. 3. The third paper will be investigating on the key challenges of BRI on ports in Asia. This is this first paper and this report studies the current trends in Chinese BRI launched by the Chinese government in the year 2013. The BRI project contains numerous development strategies that Chinese government deem necessary to expand the economic condition of Asia. The BRI involvements would improve the connections for economies which are located along the BRI, that are hoping to develop commercial and economic partnerships and promote unrestricted trade regions. We will also discuss the how BRI affect the economics of the shipping industry and international political situation with the announcement of Chinese BRI initiative. Despite China putting in huge investments into other partner countries almost for free, many critics are doubting and guessing the hidden agenda behind the BRI initiative. While on the other hand, advocates have support this cause professing that China is trying to help these developing countries grow. Due to the differences in opinions, this report would provide insights on the different perspective with regards to the BRI initiative.Bachelor of Science (Maritime Studies