Platformizing structural policy instruments? Fostering (infrastructural) power in the context of Digital Free Trade Zones

IF 3.4 2区社会学 Q1 GEOGRAPHY Geoforum Pub Date : 2025-02-06 DOI:10.1016/j.geoforum.2025.104218

Sina Hardaker

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Abstract

Digital platforms are revolutionizing various sectors by altering existing framework conditions and reshaping the geography of economic activities. This study investigates the role of digital platforms in the establishment and operationalization of Digital Free Trade Zones (DFTZs) in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Malaysia. By conceptualizing DFTZs as an innovative evolution of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), the paper explores how digital platforms like Alibaba extend their infrastructural power through the strategic integration of digital and physical infrastructures. It examines how the platform partners with governments to create ecosystems that facilitate cross-border e-commerce, potentially support SMEs, and mediate global supply chains. Drawing on expert interviews, the study uncovers the dual role of digital platforms as technological enablers and geopolitical actors, shaping trade policies and regional development. This paper advances theoretical discourse on platformization and infrastructural power, providing insights into how digital platforms redefine governance and economic dependencies in the global digital economy.

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来源期刊

Geoforum GEOGRAPHY-

CiteScore

7.30

自引率

5.70%

发文量

201

期刊介绍： Geoforum is an international, inter-disciplinary journal, global in outlook, and integrative in approach. The broad focus of Geoforum is the organisation of economic, political, social and environmental systems through space and over time. Areas of study range from the analysis of the global political economy and environment, through national systems of regulation and governance, to urban and regional development, local economic and urban planning and resources management. The journal also includes a Critical Review section which features critical assessments of research in all the above areas.