ABSTRACT
This chapter explores globalization, specifically its neoliberal variant as the independent measure to inspect gender equity in China, rather than treating gender equity as a determinant of development success. Except for early partnering with Soviet bloc countries on certain economic and political initiatives, China was largely devoid of external development programs. China offers an excellent case to examine neoliberal globalization's (NLG) impact on gender equity without the development entanglement. The chapter shows that NLG and gender equity play out differently in China than in other societies with or without comparable development and economic strategies. It presents three linked cost-benefit analyses related to: the defenders and detractors of NLG: how gender issues are framed and unfold in NLG; and how gender equity is navigated under NLG in China. A paradigm shift from NLG to hybrid models with a state capitalism thrust may offer successful economic policies that are especially beneficial to women, not only in China, but throughout Asia.
