What: The Economist argues that the pace of innovation and practicability makes China the new example, and future, for retailers.

Why it is important: The very reasons explaining The Economist’s position are currently being scrutinized by Chinese Authorities.

The Economist argues that with its size, and ability to blend e-commerce, social media and practicability, China probably represents the future of e-commerce. While in the West businesses are siloed (there is no one-business-fits all like what Alibaba represents, with a range of products and services from instant noodles delivery to financial services), China has developed digital ecosystems that are now copied in other countries (Grab and Sea in South-East Asia, Jio in India, Mercado Libre in Latin America).

Moreover, the fact that China is now going through a regulation process implies that the model is mature and ready to be exported. However, one point which is not covered in this piece is the fact that the regulation process is also examining the monopolistic approach induced by such strategies, as shown by the recent crackdown on Alibaba and its relationship with InTime.

The great mall of China - Why retailers everywhere should look to China