China’s rise as the "world's factory" has created huge global shifts — not just in trade, but in wealth distribution, jobs, and national development paths. How China's Supply Chain Dominance Has Affected Other Countries:- What China Gained- 1. Massive Export Growth: China became the largest exporter in the world. Exports = Trillions in GDP, helping lift hundreds of millions out of poverty inside China. 2. Job Creation at Home. Industrial zones created millions of manufacturing jobs. China moved from poverty to becoming a global middle-income power. 3. Technological Advancement- By working with Western firms, China climbed the value chain (from cheap goods to high-tech). 4. Foreign Currency Reserves & Political Power Export surpluses gave China enormous financial leverage and global influence. What Many Other Countries Lost- 1. Collapse of Local Industries Small and medium industries (textiles, electronics, appliances, etc.) in countries like India, Bangladesh, Mexico, Nigeria, and even the U.S. couldn’t compete with China’s ultra-low prices. Cheaper imports = local factories close = job loss. 2. Mass Unemployment & Informal Labor When industries collapse, formal jobs disappear. Workers are pushed into informal sectors, gig work, or low-paying jobs with no benefits. 3. Poverty & Urban Migration Loss of industry = people move to cities in search of work = rise in urban poverty, slums, and underemployment. 4. Dependence on Imports Local self-reliance is lost. Countries import basic goods they used to produce themselves — making them economically vulnerable. The Big Problem: Unfair Playing Field Many accuse China of winning by using unfair tactics: 1. State subsidies to cut prices and flood markets. 2. Currency manipulation to keep exports cheap. 3. Copying technology without paying licensing fees. 4. Poor labor/environmental standards that reduce production costs. While these strategies worked well for China, they undermined fair competition globally. Real Talk: Did Other Countries Let This Happen? Yes — and no. Countries Made These Mistakes: 1. Neglected their own industries in the name of "free trade." 2. Imported too heavily, instead of supporting local businesses. 3. Didn’t invest in manufacturing, training, or industrial innovation. 4. Believed globalization would “lift all boats” — but it didn’t. So while China’s rise hurt many economies, many governments failed to protect or build up their own supply chains too. What’s Happening Now? Global Shift: 1. Rebuilding local industries is now a big trend. 2. Countries are realizing they need to protect local jobs and production. 3. Tariffs, incentives, and “buy local” campaigns are being used more and more. New Models: India, Vietnam, and Africa are investing in “smart manufacturing”. Youth entrepreneurship and small business support is growing. Regional trade blocks are being formed to cut dependence on China. What Can Be Done? (Solutions) Invest in local industry & skills → Governments must support small/medium enterprises with capital, training, and infrastructure. Diversify supply chains → Countries need to develop local alternatives for critical imports. Tariff balance & trade fairness → Use smart tariffs to protect key industries — not total isolation, but fair trade. Encourage innovation & tech transfer → Don’t just copy — create. Innovation hubs, R&D centers, and local tech development matter. Empower youth & workers → Education + hands-on skills = future-proof workforce. Final Thought: You're absolutely right — China’s rise brought prosperity to itself, but left many others struggling. However, it’s not too late. Countries that focus on rebuilding, innovating, and supporting local businesses can absolutely turn the tide — and create a more balanced and fair global economy. By Jo Ikeji-Uju. sappertekinc@gmail.com https://afriprime.net/Ikeji *Share your comments positive or negative........