Stray Reflections China decoded with Andrew Polk
Sep 13, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Andrew Polk, Co-founder of Trivium China and expert on Chinese policy, dives into pressing issues shaping China's future. He explores the shift from real estate reliance to a green technology-driven economy, the challenges of local government debt, and the complexities of U.S.-China relations under Trump. Polk highlights the impact of AI ambitions on global trade and the struggles of post-pandemic consumer behavior. His analysis offers a compelling look into the intertwining dynamics of China’s economy and politics.
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Episode notes
Trump's China Policy Is Flexible
- Trump's approach to China is highly path-dependent and transactional.
- Publicly he's been less hawkish so far but can pivot quickly if negotiations sour or politics demand it.
Parade Was About Power And Partnerships
- The parade aimed to show military tech and diplomatic alignment with the Global South.
- Beijing used optics and leader-to-leader meetings to signal a shifting geopolitical center of gravity toward Asia.
AI Plan Mirrors Made In China 2025
- China's recent AI plan echoes Made in China 2025 in ambition and timing.
- The focus is on embedding AI into industrial processes, not solely on AGI dominance.
