Chinese Platforms

A Critical Introduction

By: Jian Lin, Wilfred Yang Wang, Ping Sun

Write A Review

Hardcover | 15 December 2025

At a Glance

Hardcover
192 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
23.5 x 15.8 x 2.8

Hardcover

$157.75

or 4 interest-free payments of $39.44 with

Ships in 5 to 10 business days

The rise of the Chinese internet has reconfigured digital culture around the world. From social media platforms such as WeChat and Douyin to utility platforms Didi and Eleme, the Chinese platform economy has shown a remarkable capability of innovation and growth, receiving great limitation as well as protection from the Chinese state.

This is the first textbook to centre Chinese platforms in the transformation of the global internet. Offering an overview of the history, governance and social-political implications, the book shows how Chinese platforms are situated within the domestic political economy of China, and the external geopolitics and cross-border mobilities of capital, technology and populations. Topics covered include policy and governance, social media entertainment, e-commerce, digital labour, and the Chinese diaspora. Comparing and contrasting the Chinese platform ecology with its global counterpart, the book argues that while Chinese platforms exhibit more effective economic and technological innovation and have strong cultural cachet, they are subject to a far greater degree of state oversight, including facilitation as well as correction and censorship.

Chinese Platforms is a must-read for advanced students of Media and Communication Studies and China Studies, as well as those interested in the rise of digital China and its connections and implications for the global platform society.

Industry Reviews

"This book provides a critical introduction and an illuminating analysis of Chinese platforms. It is a must-read for all students who want to understand the dynamics of global platform ecosystems."
Jose van Dijck, Utrecht University

"Accessible and comprehensive, this book uses rich case studies to unpack the promises and pitfalls of the Chinese platform economy, revealing how it shapes society, culture, and the global media landscape."
Jack Linchuan Qiu, Nanyang Technological University

"Written by experts from three different regions of the world, this book offers a lucid and insightful introduction. I recommend it highly for its global vision on a rapidly digitalizing China."
Guobin Yang, University of Pennsylvania

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $79.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.