Development of China’s digital economy: path, advantages and problems

Purpose China has fully capitalized on the opportunities presented by the latest wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation, paving the way for a path with Chinese characteristics in the development of the digital economy. This paper analyzes the development of China’s digital economy, outlining its path, advantages and challenges. It aims to provide insights into how China capitalized on technological and industrial transformation to foster a digital economy with distinct Chinese characteristics. Design/methodology/approach This paper adopts a descriptive analytical approach to outline the evolution of China’s digital economy through various stages of development. It highlights the pivotal role of market demand, the intricate government-market relations and technological advancements in shaping this evolution. The approach also identifies key factors that have contributed significantly to China’s success in digital economy development. Findings The key findings reveal that China’s digital economy has grown rapidly, driven by market demand, technological innovation and government support. The “Chinese path” prioritizes consumer internet, leverages scale advantages and emphasizes data-driven development. However, challenges exist in balancing governance systems, endogenous growth and external environments. Originality/value This paper offers original insights into the unique development path of China’s digital economy, highlighting its advantages and challenges. It provides valuable insights for other countries seeking to foster their own digital economies, especially in managing government-market relations and leveraging domestic market demand.