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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:The China shop phenomenon: trade supply within the Chinese diaspora in South Africa
Author:Laribee, RachelISNI
Year:2008
Periodical:Afrika Spectrum
Volume:43
Issue:3
Pages:353-370
Language:German
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:Chinese
immigrants
retail trade
imports
Abstract:This paper looks at the Chinese trading network's supply chain in South Africa, examining business between the Chinese wholesalers and retail China shop owners. The most recent wave, dating from the mid-1990s, of newcomers within the Chinese diaspora in South Africa has managed to establish and dominate a line of trade supply all the way from the ports of China to the homes of millions of South Africans. The paper examines the economic environment within which small 'China shops' are active, exploring particularly competition within the group of Chinese traders and how the latest wave of Chinese immigrants has affected supply chains and demand within South Africa. A case study in one small South African town demonstrates how the Chinese community utilizes its competitive advantages to maximize the value of its trade. The paper also strives to shatter the notion of a 'China Inc', arguing that although Chinese traders in consumer goods may have altered consumer demands within South Africa, above all they compete in an individualistic scramble to gain competitive advantage over other 'China shops'. Bibliogr., notes, sum. in English, French and German. [Journal abstract]
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