The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series All That Bitchin' Won't Keep China Around || Peter Zeihan
Oct 20, 2025
The discussion kicks off with a bold proposal for a 100% tariff on all Chinese imports. Peter Zeihan delves into the critical role of rare earths and how China's dominance in this sector impacts global industry. He highlights China's recent export restrictions and the U.S. response, pushing for urgent action. As demographics shift, the looming trade collapse due to China's aging population becomes evident. Zeihan urges listeners to proactively plan for a future with diminished Chinese influence.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
China's Rare Earths Dominance And Leverage
- China currently dominates rare earths production, refining, and export controls that affect defense and semiconductors.
- Peter Zeihan argues this leverage and demographic decline mean global trade with China will collapse to zero.
Tariffs Accelerate An Inevitable Break
- The U.S. was moving to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese imports in response to export restrictions on rare earths.
- Zeihan frames tariffs as an accelerant but not the fundamental cause of the eventual trade collapse.
Demographics Make China A Fading Trade Partner
- China's population is aging rapidly and will lack sufficient working-age people within a decade.
- Zeihan concludes this demographic collapse ensures trade relationships with China will trend toward zero regardless of politics.