Vietnamese-Chinese Relationships at the Borderlands

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Since the resumption of diplomatic contacts and border reopening in 1991, the borderland region between China and Vietnam has become integral to the growing economies of both nations, attracting many from interior provinces seeking economic opportunities. This work explores the Chinese-Vietnamese relationship in the borderland through everyday interactions in trade and tourism. It delves into the historical context of bilateral relations that influence perceptions and interpretations of each other's intentions in daily exchanges. Despite centuries of coexistence, the modern dynamics of trade and tourism in post-war and post-reform contexts are relatively new to both populations. The book adopts a ‘bottom-up’ approach to highlight localized experiences of interstate relations, showcasing the transformative impact of economic activities on borderland communities. It reveals how renewed interactions have created a contested space for understanding Vietnamese-Chinese relationships and trans-border cultural politics. This innovative study on the strategic development of the borderland within the evolving political economy of the China-Southeast Asia region is valuable for scholars in Anthropology, Border Studies, Social and Cultural Studies, and Asian Studies.