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Thu 11 Aug, 2005 08:02 pm
Let's make this simple and short.
Some days ago, Chinese people had a boycott to Japanese products, and it's still ongoing. People in China tried to use this kind of "non-governmental behavior" to put pressure on Japanese government, in order to change their foreign policy to China.
Do you think Boycott to Japanese product could work or not? If the answer depends on the extent, then what is most likely extent?
("work" means " could finally change Japan's foreign policy" but not "seriously hurt Japan's economy")
there are some points need attention:
1. China is Japan's top trade partner. (takes 20% market, while US takes 18%)
2. Japan has become the third biggest trade partner of China (after EU and US)
3. among young generations (15-40), more than 60% people showed their attitude of boycott.
4. Chinese government has no policy upon this.
5. Japan's interest groups (benefit from trade) play an important role in Japan's foreign policy decision making process.
your opinions will be appreciated!!
Boycotts work when enough people participate.
It worked in the USA for the civil rights movement during the 1960's. Unions have used the technique to get corporations to change their policies.
Sometimes it does not work - I know people who boycott products made in China because they believe China has taken too many jobs from the US or they do not like the way the Chinese government treats the Chinese people. I don't think this particular boycott is havng any effect on US/China trade or government policy.
Some boycotts work and others do not. It's a numbers game.
As GW pointed out, boycotts are used not only between countries like China and Japan, but between many other countries around the world. It could be for economic, political or ethical reasons. It's nothing new.
As a believer of free trade, I don't believe in boycotts. This world continues to shrink, and all the economies of the world are now tied together whether we like it or not.
As an individual, I'll buy products that satisfies my quality and price requirements whether they are made in China, the US, Asia, Europe, or anywhere else.
I don't believe in boycotts.
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