The Beijing 2008 XXIX Olympiad has finally drawn its curtains, while the euphoria will extend for long while in China, the biggest question in the minds of most critics could be - Would the USD47 billion spent on the vast number of State of the Art infrastructures go to waste as White Elephants?

Indeed, the Chinese government has intended for this "face project" to catapult it into the centre of global attention, promoting the games to highlight & leverage China’s emergence on the world stage and has invested heavily in new facilities and transportation systems.

The Beijing 2008 XXIX Olympiad has a total of 37 venues to be used for the entire Olympics period, of which there are 12 newly constructed venues. This is inclusive of the National Aquatics Centre, fondly named the "Water Cube" as well as the National Stadium - The Birdnest. Capital expenditures were also not spared in making great improvements to public facilities as well, such as the airport and subway system.

The Chinese Had It All Strategically Planned
Obviously, it is very much the Chinese mentality to plan strategically for any investment big or small and invest with prudence. Indeed, official tenders at inception have already been strategically planned for the commercial use of such structures after the games. In fact, commercial sponsors and activities would ensure that the infrastructures would be fully Chinese would be maximized, extending into the next decade.

Add-On Facilities to Boost Tourism
The various stadiums are built in the heart of Beijing within a stone’s throw away from each other, with malls, sports and recreational facilities planned around them.

A bonus plus point is that the new structures are situated relatively near a must-visit tourist attraction, namely the Tiananmen Square, and Forbidden City. Locals and foreign visitors alike would have greater reasons visit and boost Chinese tourism.

Platforms for International Sports Events
In addition, the very high-tech State of the Art Water Cube built on new aquatic dynamics is said to augment the potential record breakings. This very unique selling proposition would greatly enhance China as a popular host for International Aquatic Meets for the world.

China, if it continues to nurture the valuable infrastructures, it could mirror Barcelona’s Olympic hosting experience of which, the run up to and the aftermath of the 1992 Olympics Games generated much businesses potential which catapult it to financial ratings of AA+/Stable.

Beijing Olympics Infrastructure White Elephants? Don’t count on it as yet!