The Sharing Economy A Comparison between China and Europe

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive understanding of the distinct features of sharing economy companies in China and how they differ from those in Europe. The report fills an important gap in the literature, which is deficient in explaining how the cultural and political environment of different countries impacts the sharing economy. Collaborative thinking pioneers such as Botsman and Rogers (2010), Chase (2015) as well as Liu and Wu (2016) provide theoretical framework in understanding the concept of the sharing economy and collaborative consumption. A set of extended qualitative research interviews with professionals and students with experience living in both Europe and China are presented. Themes from these discussions, which highlight the features of the sharing economy in both China and Europe, are explored. The Chinese sharing economy is in general found to be more service-based and fast moving than its European equivalent, which functions in a different framework based on concepts of community and sustainability. The importance of trust and understanding of the Chinese political system in this kind of business is highlighted. Strategies for carrying out business in the Chinese sharing economy are discussed. This paper is particularly aimed towards European companies who wish to do business within the sector of the sharing economy in China.