What does the US get wrong about China? With Adam Posen
Jul 22, 2024
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Adam Posen, President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics, discusses the US's tough stance on China. Topics include China's economic shift under President Xi, US misconceptions about manufacturing, unilateralism in economic policies, proposed changes in US policy towards China, and counterarguments to views on China's economic behavior and national security.
A hard line on China may not be the best approach due to concerns about China's tightening control under President Xi.
Debates on fair competition practices arise from fears of Chinese exports flooding global markets in critical sectors like electric vehicles.
Deep dives
US-China Relationship Shift
The US-China relationship has shifted dramatically from a hopeful engagement approach to one characterized by anxiety and national security concerns. China's economic growth hasn't led to anticipated democratic changes, causing unease in the US. The discussion with Adam Posen from the Peterson Institute highlights concerns about China's tightening control under President Xi and the impact on economic growth.
China's Economic Shift Under Xi Jinping
Adam Posen's analysis focuses on the significant economic shift in China under President Xi Jinping's leadership since 2015. The move towards increased state and party control over market-based mechanisms has altered the investment landscape. Posen argues that factors like COVID-19 responses and crackdowns have heightened Chinese citizens' wariness of state influence in their lives.
Foreign Policy Implications of Chinese Industries
Chinese government's emphasis on advancing key industries like electric vehicles and AI raises concerns abroad. The fear that Chinese exports might flood global markets leads to debates on fair competition practices. The discussion highlights the need for strategic responses to prevent improper market dominance by Chinese industries, especially in critical sectors like electric vehicles.
US Policy Shifts Toward China
The Biden administration's stance on China is critiqued for being overly aggressive and short-sighted. National security concerns drive policy decisions focusing on countering Chinese economic practices. The episode delves into the nuances of US policy approaches towards China, highlighting the complexities of balancing economic interests with national security imperatives.
NOTE: This podcast was recorded before Joe Biden announced he was stepping down from the US presidential race
Both the Republicans and Democrats are talking tough on economic competition with China. But is this wise? Today on the show, Adam Posen, president of the Peterson Institute for International Economics, discusses why a hard line on China might not be the best line.
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Soumaya Keynes writes a column each week for the Financial Times. You can find it here