Macro Hive Conversations With Bilal Hafeez Ep. 255: Chris Johnson on Trump vs China
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Feb 14, 2025 Chris Johnson, President and CEO of China Strategies Group and former CIA analyst, shares his insights on the evolving dynamics of U.S.-China relations. He discusses how Trump's trade policies contrasted with Biden's approach, including critiques of China's economic coercion strategies. Johnson also highlights internal challenges Xi Jinping faces, such as public discontent. Additionally, he explores China's DeepSeek AI advancements and their implications on global tech, emphasizing how these shifts influence geopolitical strategies and economic engagements, particularly in the Middle East.
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Career Start
- Chris Johnson initially focused on post-Soviet Union and Middle East studies.
- He joined the CIA's China office by chance and developed a passion for it.
Shifting US-China Relations
- The Obama administration was aware of China's shifting trajectory, but underestimated Xi Jinping's risk tolerance.
- Trump's administration marked a turning point, labeling China a strategic competitor.
Biden's China Policy
- Biden largely adopted Trump's China policy but added a focus on democracy vs. autocracy.
- Biden's administration also implemented stricter export controls than Trump.
