China Insider

In this week’s episode of China Insider, Miles Yu reviews the recent announcement from technology giant Canon to close one of its major printer facilities based in mainland China, and assess the impact of a rising demand for domestic manufacturing on foreign companies based in China. Next, Miles covers the news of US naval operations and intercept of a Chinese cargo ship en route to Iran reportedly carrying dual-use goods in a move to prevent Iran’s continued remilitarization efforts. Finally, Miles provides analysis on the CCP’s continued efforts to spread anti-Japanese propaganda, and the political fallout from these campaigns that harms both Chinese domestic and foreign policy. China Insider is a weekly podcast project from Hudson Institute’s China Center, hosted by China Center Director and Senior Fellow, Dr. Miles Yu, who provides weekly news that mainstream American outlets often miss, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis on the China challenge and the free world’s future.

In this week’s episode of China Insider, Miles Yu reviews the new 2025 National Security Strategy document released by the White House, highlighting key elements involving the shifted focus to Indo-Pacific defense initiatives with attention to China and Taiwan. Next, Miles covers China’s latest episode of anti-Japanese sentiment during a cultural festival in Shanghai, and how this rising xenophobic trend has backfired for the Chinese Communist Party. Finally, Miles responds to the Chinese Communist Party’s attempt to discredit his own published statements on Beijing’s goal for the reunification of Taiwan with the mainland, and unpacks the larger implications of the CCP’s focus on narrative dominance in cross-strait dialogue. China Insider is a weekly podcast project from Hudson Institute’s China Center, hosted by China Center Director and Senior Fellow, Dr. Miles Yu, who provides weekly news that mainstream American outlets often miss, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis on the China challenge and the free world’s future.

The podcast discusses a high-stakes phone call between Trump and Xi regarding Taiwan, emphasizing the role of narrative in their information warfare. A devastating fire in Hong Kong that left 128 dead prompts an investigation into safety flaws and political fallout. Taiwan's ambitious $40 billion defense budget is also explored, highlighting its efforts to enhance security and deter threats from China. The interplay of regional alliances and asymmetric defense strategies are key themes throughout.

In this week’s episode of China Insider, Miles Yu goes solo. First, he examines Tesla’s announcement that it will eliminate all China-sourced components from vehicles manufactured in the United States within the next two years. This marks a monumental shift in the company’s supply chain and signals a broader decoupling of key US industries from longstanding Chinese chokeholds and security vulnerabilities. Second, Miles revisits the 2015 purchase of the US insurance firm Wright USA, which specializes in liability insurance for Central Intelligence Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigations personnel, by the Chinese conglomerate Fosun Group. He explains why the subsequent Committee on Foreign Investment in the US–mandated resale of the company back to Starr Companies, controlled by China’s longtime friend Maurice “Hank” Greenberg and his AIG network, may be the more consequential part of the story. Last, Miles analyzes the China factor in the ongoing US–Venezuela standoff. He discusses how the Maduro regime has advanced Beijing’s strategic interests of manufacturing global strategic distractions for the US by fueling instability and chaos across Latin America—the region long referred to as the United States’ own “backyard.” China Insider is a weekly podcast project from Hudson Institute’s China Center, hosted by China Center Director and Senior Fellow, Dr. Miles Yu, who provides weekly news that mainstream American outlets often miss, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis on the China challenge and the free world’s future.

This week, the discussion dives into Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi's comments on Taiwan and why they sparked outrage in Beijing. Insights into the recent KMT leadership change highlight implications for Taiwan's political landscape. The interplay between China’s perceived strength and its internal struggles raises questions about the duality of the Chinese state. Additionally, the podcast explores Taiwan's public sentiment towards Japan and the broader effects of these dynamics on regional stability.

In this discussion, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang's controversial trip to Beijing amid a US investigation takes center stage, highlighting the tension between corporate interests and national security. The new Chinese aircraft carrier, CNS Fujian, is analyzed for its implications on naval power, revealing challenges in its operational readiness. Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim's impactful speech at the EU emphasizes Taiwan's democratic values and the importance of international support against authoritarianism. A thought-provoking exploration of these pressing geopolitical issues unfolds.

The discussion dives into the Chinese Communist Party's fourth plenum, revealing Xi Jinping's consolidation of power and recent military purges. Insights on the ASEAN summit highlight US-China trade dynamics and regional responses. Upcoming APEC talks with Trump and Xi are analyzed, with potential trade implications. Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is explored, particularly her conservative stance and its effect on China-Japan relations. The strategic role of Japan in Indo-Pacific deterrence further emphasizes the shifting geopolitical landscape.

This week’s discussion dives into the mass purge of nine high-ranking PLA officials, revealing Xi Jinping's intent to consolidate power. It highlights the alarming effects of fear on the PLA's combat readiness. The podcast also commemorates Nobel Prize-winning physicist Dr. Chen Ning Yang and his complex legacy, including his relationship with the CCP during turbulent times. Lastly, it tackles the contentious debate regarding 'China Hawk' rhetoric in U.S.-China relations and the need to prioritize national security over short-term business interests.

China tightens its grip on global rare earth resources, igniting discussions on its almost complete processing monopoly and the potential fallout from recent export control changes. Tensions rise with the UK as China leverages its diplomatic tactics, spotlighting concerns about a sprawling new embassy in London. Meanwhile, Taiwan celebrates its National Day with a focus on economic growth and democratic values, as President Lai unveils ambitious development plans amidst rising defense efforts to bolster security against regional threats.

In this week’s episode of China Insider, Miles Yu discusses the accelerating trend of financial flight, and whether the CCP can stem the flow of China's wealthy elite from leaving the country. Next, Miles reviews Japan's Liberal Democratic Party leadership election, the upcoming election for Prime Minister, and China's response to the current slate of candidates and desired outcomes. Finally, Miles comments on the recent purge of Liu Jianchao from China's International Department, and Xi Jinping's efforts to concentrate the CCP's foreign affairs and diplomatic dialogue under a more centralized authority. China Insider is a weekly podcast project from Hudson Institute’s China Center, hosted by China Center Director and Senior Fellow, Dr. Miles Yu, who provides weekly news that mainstream American outlets often miss, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis on the China challenge and the free world’s future.