Conclusion: The Sino Digital Economy: Development History, Current Status, and Challenges Going Forward

Abstract

China has been undergoing an economic transition from the export-led growth typical of low-value-added manufacturing, to the development of a consumption-led economy. After entering the phase of “new normal” economy characterised by a relatively stable state of low growth, China has actively promoted an initiative called “Internet Plus”, with the aim of utilising the Internet and any related technological means to spur the next stage of economic development. With a well-established digital foundation, on the other hand, Taiwan has also experienced a remarkable growth in e-commerce right across the Taiwan Strait. In terms of cross-border e-commerce, however, it still leaves much to be desired for Taiwan’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In this chapter we will first review the development history of the digital economy across the Taiwan Strait, followed by a close examination of the current trends and imminent opportunities/challenges for China and Taiwan, respectively.