

China’s Collapse, America’s Rise, and What Comes Next — with Peter Zeihan
457 snips Jun 5, 2025
Peter Zeihan, a geopolitical strategist and founder of Zeihan on Geopolitics, shares his insights on the precarious future of China and the promising demographics of the U.S. He argues that China's dependence on trade and aging population signals potential collapse, while younger labor forces in emerging markets face significant challenges. Zeihan also discusses modern warfare innovations, particularly Ukraine's tactics, and critiques the impact of social media on geopolitics. He emphasizes the value of honest friendships in personal growth and navigating these complex global issues.
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China's Fragile Economic Future
- China's collapse is driven by extreme trade dependence and demographic decline.
- Its birth rate is below replacement level, threatening workforce and consumption base.
China Vulnerable in Military Conflict
- China lacks military range and depends on maritime trade routes.
- Disrupting shipping lanes can collapse Chinese industry within a decade.
China's Trade Network Under Pressure
- China's attempts to find alternative markets amid U.S. tariffs are losing steam.
- Secondary tariffs from other countries further tighten China's global trade access.