Polish Perceptions of the Belt Road Initiative Research among Managers in Opole Voivodeship

Abstract

Purpose: The article discusses the expectations and plans of Polish managers from small, medium, and large sector enterprises in Opole Voivodeship related to the possibility of more effective cooperation with the Chinese side. Design/Methodology/Approach: A survey was carried out among Polish managers who represent small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large businesses in Opole Voivodeship to learn their perceptions of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as well as the plans and expectations that entrepreneurs have of the initiative. Findings: The main conclusions drawn involve, among others, the observation that entrepreneurs have very similar views on BRI. Insufficient information provided to the local business community on the Initiative was noted, which results in them not fully realizing what the Initiative actually is. Consequently, they do not know how they can participate in it or where they can obtain answers to questions about potential cooperation with the Chinese side. Moreover, most of the information about the Initiative that they have received so far does not come from the business or scientific community but the media. Practical Implications: The presented results are important for the European and Chinese sides. Among others, for institutions piloting individual projects operating under the auspices of OBOR, organizations operating in Opole Voivodeship, and for universities teaching in the area of economic and legal science. Originality/value: Research results can contribute to how the BRI is currently perceived by the Polish, who represent the SME and large enterprise sectors, how it impacts the practical effects of economic cooperation, and what steps should be taken make these effects acceptable.