Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-12-25 13:39Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the historical struggle for control over China's water resources, highlighting the shift from foreign dominance to a more balanced domestic control, emphasizing the importance of water security as a national priority [1][2][25]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Chinese water industry was once on the brink of being dominated by foreign capital, with 60% of the water supply market controlled by foreign entities, affecting nearly 100 million people's access to water [2][10]. - In the 1990s and early 2000s, rapid urbanization led to significant infrastructure gaps, particularly in water services, prompting the government to open up to foreign investment to fill these gaps [4][6]. Group 2: Foreign Investment and Its Impact - Major foreign companies like Veolia and Suez entered the Chinese market, often outbidding local firms for contracts, which resulted in substantial financial gains for local governments but raised concerns about long-term implications for water quality and pricing [8][10]. - Water prices surged significantly after foreign companies took over operations, with examples like Tianjin experiencing price increases from 0.68 yuan to 3.4 yuan per ton, a nearly fivefold rise [13]. Group 3: Water Quality Concerns - Numerous incidents of water quality issues arose under foreign management, including severe contamination cases in Lanzhou and other cities, leading to public health scares and loss of trust [15][18]. - The article cites global examples of foreign water management failures, indicating a pattern of profit-driven practices that compromise local water quality and accessibility [20][25]. Group 4: Policy Response and Domestic Growth - In response to the challenges posed by foreign control, the Chinese government initiated a "de-foreignization" policy in 2015, which included the cancellation of special operating rights for foreign companies and the strengthening of local water management [27][29]. - Domestic companies like Beijing Enterprises Water Group and Beijing Capital Water have emerged as key players, leveraging government support and technological advancements to reclaim market share from foreign firms [31][33]. Group 5: Current Market Dynamics - The current landscape of the Chinese water market is characterized by a "state-owned enterprise-led, multi-party collaboration" model, ensuring better water quality and pricing stability for consumers [35][36]. - Partnerships between local firms and foreign companies, such as the collaboration between Suez and Chongqing Water Group, illustrate a new cooperative approach that maintains local control while benefiting from foreign expertise [40][42]. Group 6: Future Challenges and Strategies - Despite progress, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas where water infrastructure is still lacking, and urbanization continues to strain water resources [49][50]. - Ongoing efforts are needed to enhance domestic technological capabilities, improve regulatory frameworks, and ensure sustainable water management practices to safeguard water resources for future generations [52].