全球大宗商品定价影响力形成机理及启示

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the influence of structural power on commodity pricing, emphasizing that this influence is formed through the combined effects of production, trade, finance, and information dimensions. It highlights the evolution of the global cotton pricing center and outlines both the favorable conditions and constraints faced by China in enhancing its commodity pricing influence [1][2]. Group 1: Structural Power in Commodity Pricing - Structural power, as defined by Susan Strange, refers to the ability of certain countries or organizations to shape and influence the behavior of others through the establishment of rules and standards in the international political economy [3]. - In the global commodity market, structural power can be obtained through various channels, including production, trade, finance, and information [3]. Group 2: Production Structural Power - Possessing resource endowments is fundamental for gaining pricing influence, as seen with the U.S. being a leading exporter of corn, sorghum, and soybeans, significantly impacting global food prices [4]. - Cross-border capital control over production resources allows entities to influence commodity production decisions, as demonstrated by large mining groups and multinational financial capital [4]. - Technological advancements have led to increased production efficiency, exemplified by the U.S. shale gas production rising from 11 billion cubic meters in 2000 to 840 billion cubic meters in 2024, making the U.S. the largest natural gas producer and exporter [4]. Group 3: Trade Structural Power - Developed countries influence global commodity trade through the establishment of trade rules and policies, affecting pricing and market conditions [5]. - Major grain traders dominate approximately 70% of international grain and oilseed trade, significantly impacting agricultural prices [5]. - Control over shipping logistics is crucial, as over 80% of international trade is conducted via maritime transport, with shipping costs affecting commodity prices [5]. Group 4: Financial Structural Power - The dominance of the U.S. dollar as the primary currency for commodity pricing and settlement significantly influences global commodity prices, with the Federal Reserve's interest rate hikes impacting demand [6]. - The U.S. and other developed nations lead the international financial system, affecting commodity trade through cross-border payment systems [6]. - Established futures exchanges in the U.S. and Europe serve as pricing centers for energy, metals, and agricultural products, with regulatory frameworks influencing market operations [6]. Group 5: Information Structural Power - The release of price information and data by developed countries serves as authoritative references for global commodity markets, impacting price trends [7]. - Price benchmarks established by reporting agencies play a critical role in setting market prices for non-standardized commodities [7]. - Market forecasts from international financial institutions can directly influence market expectations and pricing [7]. Group 6: Evolution of Commodity Pricing Influence - The historical evolution of the global cotton pricing center illustrates the shifting role of structural power across different periods and countries [8]. - From the 16th to 18th centuries, colonial economies dominated cotton trade, with Western European countries exerting significant influence over pricing through direct control [9]. - The 19th century marked the emergence of structural power in cotton pricing, with the U.K. becoming the global center due to industrial advancements and trade networks [11]. - Post-19th century, the U.S. emerged as a leading cotton producer and established futures trading, solidifying its position as the global pricing center [12]. Group 7: Conditions and Constraints for China - Favorable conditions for China include its large market size, diversified international trade, ongoing internationalization of the RMB, and rapid development of its futures market [13][14]. - Constraints include reliance on imported raw materials, the dichotomy between domestic and international markets, insufficient internationalization of the futures market, and weak information influence [15][16]. Group 8: Recommendations for Enhancing Pricing Influence - China should integrate the enhancement of commodity pricing influence into its strategic framework, supporting enterprises in global mergers and investments [17]. - Tailored policies should be implemented to enhance futures pricing influence based on specific commodities, particularly in regions like the Belt and Road Initiative [17]. - Building a world-class futures market and fostering commodity service providers and information institutions are essential for strengthening pricing influence [18].