A new study by Ayesha Sadiq, a Master’s student at the China Institute of WTO (CIWTO) in Beijing, and Dr. Aftab Haider, a PhD scholar at Southwest University of Political Science and Law in Chongqing, looks at what Pakistan can learn from China’s rise as an economic powerhouse. The article, titled “Can Pakistan Replicate China’s Economic Success? Key Lessons for Long- Term Growth,” was recently published in the Qualitative Research Journal for Social Studies.

The research shows how differently the two countries have performed. China has managed to lift more than 800 million people out of poverty, bringing its poverty rate down to just 0.7%. Pakistan, on the other hand, is still struggling, with around 25% of its people living below the poverty line in 2024. China’s industries also play a much bigger role in its economy, making up almost 40% of its GDP, while in Pakistan the figure is just 20.9%.

Foreign investment tells a similar story. In 2023, China attracted $163 billion in foreign direct investment, while Pakistan brought in only $2.05 billion. Although that number for Pakistan is a 40% increase from the previous year, it is still a fraction of what China receives.

The study points out that Pakistan can learn a lot from China, especially in areas like industrial growth, exports, infrastructure, and innovation. The authors suggest setting up a National Innovation and Industrialization Fund to encourage research, new technology, and a stronger workforce.

At the same time, the study warns that Pakistan cannot just copy China’s model. Problems like political instability, weak institutions, and lack of long-term planning make it difficult to follow the same path. Instead, Pakistan will need to adapt the lessons from China to its own situation, focusing on education, healthcare, good governance, and fair opportunities for all.

The main message of the study is clear: if Pakistan wants lasting growth, it must invest in its people, strengthen its institutions, and create an environment that supports innovation and industry.

Find out more about the publication: https://qrjss.com/article/v2i3-2025-pp55-78