MODERN COMPETITIVE STRATEGIES OF CHINESE, JAPANESE, AND SOUTH KOREAN COMPANIES IN THE GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE MARKET: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

The global automotive industry is currently experiencing profound structural transformation, driven by electrification, environmental sustainability imperatives, and digitalization across production and value chains (International Energy Agency [IEA], 2023; McKinsey & Company, 2023). Within this dynamic environment, China, Japan, and South Korea have emerged as three of the most influential Asian economies, each adopting distinct strategies to secure competitiveness in the global market. This study aims to analyze and compare the strategic orientations of leading automotive firms from these countries, drawing on secondary data, including academic literature, industry reports, and international trade statistics. A comparative analytical methodology is employed, informed by Porter’s framework of competitive advantage (Porter, 1985) and concepts of innovation-driven competition (Sturgeon, Van Biesebroeck, & Gereffi, 2008). The findings reveal that Chinese firms emphasize rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) supported by strong state intervention, Japanese manufacturers focus on lean production systems and hybrid technologies, while South Korean companies pursue a value-for-money approach combined with aggressive marketing strategies. Collectively, these trajectories illustrate multiple pathways to competitiveness in the automotive sector. The study concludes with policy lessons for emerging economies, particularly Uzbekistan, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and institutional support as key drivers of industrial development (Wells & Nieuwenhuis, 2012).