CHINDIA – the changing times of China and India bilateral relations

Purpose - China and India are pursuing cooperative arrangements while simultaneously maintaining their own independence, especially with respect to foreign policy. Today, decisions about cooperation are made on a case‐by‐case basis, opting for cooperation when necessary and competition where this strategy is justified. Maintaining a balance in a contradiction‐ridden relationship is important from the points of view of the national interests of both India and China. The purpose of this paper is to describe development in the notion of CHINDIA and provide some pointers for maintaining the balance between the two countries. Design/methodology/approach - Learning from history and current happenings, the paper looks to the future of CHINDIA. A SWOT analysis is undertaken of the basic trade figures of the two economies in the context of the global environment and various bilateral moves. Trade details are assessed and analysed. A content analysis method is used to identify prevailing sentiments relayed to CHINDIA and its future. Findings - This review identified strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats and sentiments relayed to CHINDIA. Together, these form basic points for considering any future actions related to the two economies. Originality/value - The study will be useful for academics and business professionals working in the area of international business/relations and those engaged in tracking development in CHINDIA for strategic ends. Policy makers can streamline their efforts, taking into account the pointer that emerged for this study.