On my first visit to China, more than two decades ago, I was struck by its sprawling megacities and towering metallic skyscrapers, but stung by the reach of the Chinese authorities when I tried to get access to global news via the internet.
The Communist Party has gradually shifted from autocracy to democracy, however, adapting to the demands of a modern Chinese society. It calls this "responsive authoritarianism". The media has also had to evolve from a purely government-funded ideological tool to self-financed business enterprises...
BL Premium
This article is reserved for our subscribers.
A subscription helps you enjoy the best of our business content every day along with benefits such as articles from our international business news partners; ProfileData financial data; and digital access to the Sunday Times and Sunday Times Daily.
Already subscribed? Simply sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now