ChinaTalk

John Foote, a partner and head of the customs practice at Kelley Drye & Warren, dives into the complexities of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. He explains its implications for U.S. imports and how companies could face supply chain disruptions if their materials link back to Xinjiang. The discussion covers the evolving regulatory landscape, the historical context of forced labor laws, and the challenges importers face in proving compliance. Foote also highlights the difficulties surrounding customs seizures and the significant attention this issue demands.

Erich Schwartzel, author of "Red Carpet: Hollywood, China, and the Global Battle for Cultural Supremacy", joins for a fascinating discussion on Hollywood's rocky relationship with China. They delve into the motivations behind the director of "Seven Years in Tibet" apologizing years later and the challenges filmmakers face with censorship. The conversation explores how Richard Gere's career highlights the moral dilemmas of the industry and examines the growing influence of Chinese domestic productions on Hollywood's future. Cultural exchange, complex narratives, and cinematic diplomacy take center stage.

Hal Brands, a professor at Johns Hopkins University and author of 'The Twilight Struggle,' joins to discuss pivotal lessons from the Cold War that resonate today. He analyzes how the U.S. leveraged Soviet failings in the developing world and the critical role of technology during that era. Brands reflects on the cyclical nature of American confidence and doubt, compares today's Sinologists to Cold War Sovietologists, and provocatively asserts that only the instigator of the Ukraine war can halt it.

Arnold Chang, a dedicated artist of Chinese ink painting, and Joe Scheier-Dawlberg, curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, engage in a captivating discussion about art's resilience amidst political turmoil. They delve into how chaotic periods can inspire creativity and the significance of escapism in Chinese art. The conversation also uncovers the intertwining of traditional and modern themes, the role of writing in paintings, and how art can serve as a reflection of cultural heritage in the face of change.

Join MIT professor JoAnne Yates and Wellesley political science expert Craig Murphy as they explore the power of global standards. Discover how standardized shipping containers fueled China's growth and why Tim Berners-Lee is hailed as a benevolent overlord. They debate the influence of Europe versus China in setting these standards and unravel the fascinating history of international cooperation that has shaped modern economies. Plus, hear about the importance of inclusivity in technological standardization, especially for women in engineering.

Freelance journalist Chang Che shares insights on Wang Huning, a top CCP leader whose book, once obscure, gained traction for its critique of American culture. Discussing Shanghai's harsh lockdowns, Chang highlights the emotional toll and governance shifts. He explores how Western classical education flourished in China amid skepticism in the West, emphasizing its role in bridging cultures. The conversation delves into the ideological underpinnings of China's policies and the broader implications for cultural identity in a post-pandemic world.

Tong Zhao, a fellow at the Carnegie Center in Beijing with expertise in China's nuclear program, sheds light on the intricacies of China's growing nuclear arsenal and its geopolitical implications. He discusses China's perception of NATO as an aggressor and critiques the technical illiteracy of policy experts. The podcast also examines China’s unique approach to nuclear deterrence and its conception of Russia as a rational actor in the context of the Ukraine conflict. Ultimately, Zhao emphasizes the urgent need for dialogue to prevent an arms race.

Bonny Lin, Director of the China Power Project at CSIS and an expert in Chinese foreign policy, dives into Beijing's response to the Ukraine war. She discusses the PLA's possible adaptations based on lessons learned and how U.S. intelligence comparisons might shift China's military strategies regarding Taiwan. The conversation also delves into China's careful balancing act with Russia, examining future implications for national security and the geopolitical landscape. Lin highlights the challenges in analyzing defense policy amidst such complex international dynamics.

Brian Hioe, a Taipei-based DJ and New Bloom editor, dives into Taiwan’s indie music scene, shedding light on its sociopolitical context. He explores how indigenous communities influence music, and the challenges artists face earning a living in Taiwan versus China. The conversation also touches on his Twitter clashes with tankie rappers, a unique indie music dating app, and the surprising impact of celebrity scandals, like Wang Leehom's divorce, on national discussions about culture and women's treatment in society.

Tom Wright, an award-winning journalist and host of the FAT LEONARD podcast, dives into a jaw-dropping tale of corruption involving U.S. Navy officers and Malaysian defense contractor Fat Leonard. He reveals how Leonard lured military personnel with cash and scandalous perks, including secret orgy recordings. The discussion parallels the infamous Jho Low scandal, showcasing the moral decay within military ranks. Wright also touches on the contrast between accountability in American and Chinese corruption, offering a compelling exploration of ethics in high-stakes environments.