China emerges as big winner in vaccine outreach

Beijing parlays homegrown jabs to expand diplomatic and economic influence

202100401 Data Watch

China's global push for mutual recognition of its vaccine passports could give it an edge in the tourism sector and allow its executives a head start in dealmaking. (Source photo by Reuters)  © Reuters

ANNA NISHINO, IORI KAWATE and YASUO TAKEUCHI, Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO/BEIJING/BRUSSELS -- China is on the verge of expanding its international influence as it adroitly wields what is arguably the most valuable export of the moment, COVID-19 vaccines.

The global rollout of Chinese jabs amid a serious shortage of doses, especially in low- and middle-income countries, is helping Beijing attain a new kind of soft power that could easily translate into global clout. At least 70 countries and territories have either approved Chinese vaccines or struck deals to receive doses from China.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.