Economist Podcasts Missing in action: China’s defence minister has disappeared
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Sep 21, 2023 
Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor for The Economist, and Tom Easton, South Asia business and finance editor, discuss the mysterious disappearance of China's defense minister and its unsettling implications for military discipline and geopolitical tensions, particularly with the U.S. They also explore Xi Jinping's challenges amid diminishing excitement surrounding the iPhone 15 launch. Additionally, the duo highlights the enduring cultural allure of the Bullet motorcycle in India, revealing its deep emotional connections and impressive sales figures.
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Missing Minister
- China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu has disappeared from public view since late August.
- This absence follows a pattern of other high-profile officials vanishing, raising questions about Xi Jinping's leadership.
Potential Reasons for Disappearance
- Li Shangfu's disappearance could be linked to corruption crackdowns within the military, particularly in the rocket force or equipment development.
- It could also be due to disagreements with Xi Jinping or other disciplinary breaches.
Pattern of Disappearances
- Li's disappearance is similar to Foreign Minister Qin Gang's earlier this year, with officials offering vague explanations.
- Several other senior military officers have also been removed recently, indicating broader turmoil.