The Open Door Policy, introduced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China and to prevent any single power from monopolizing Chinese trade. The impact of this policy on China's economy can be summarized as follows:
The Open Door Policy contributed to an increase in foreign trade and investment in China, which spurred economic modernization and infrastructure development. However, it also led to significant foreign influence and control over Chinese markets, which sometimes stifled domestic industries and created economic dependency on foreign powers.
In summary, while the Open Door Policy facilitated economic growth and modernization in China through increased trade, it also led to exploitation and a loss of economic sovereignty, setting the stage for future conflicts over national control and economic independence.