Despite ambivalence about Chinese intentions in Indonesia’s political and defense establishment, Chinese telecoms firms have successfully used strategies of localization to position themselves as trusted cybersecurity providers to the country.

China has long been invested in the economies of Central Asia, including in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and other countries. However, over the last few years, that engagement has slowly changed as Central Asian laborers have demanded more benefits and professional development from Chinese industrial firms. Dirk van der Kley and Niva Yau explain how China has adapted to these evolving demands from Central Asian workers.

Chinese firms are adapting to an ever-changing business environment as Central Asian leaders and citizens demand more local job creation, value-added industry, and opportunities for skills and advancement.