Advances in International Finance

To promote the bilateral economic cooperation between China and Belarus, this paper studies the status of bilateral trade and investment, identifies the opportunities, and captures potential risks in political, economic, and security arenas. We find that the political connection between China and Belarus is stable and the foundation for bilateral economic cooperation is solid. Belarus enjoys superior geographic advantages and the two countries’ industrial structure is mutually complementary. Belarus is revealing its significance in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, Chinese trade and investment in Belarus are also facing domestic unrests, exacerbation of international political conflicts, flawed financial and fiscal system, as well as lack of rules in market governance. We propose that China should make full use of the BRI and promote cooperation in complementary industries. Chinese corporates should take more social responsibilities and strengthen their capabilities in risk resolution.

Belt and Road Initiative; The Republic of Belarus; International trade and investment