ChinaTalk

Michael Collins, acting chair of the National Intelligence Council, brings 28 years of intelligence experience focused on East Asia. He discusses how the intelligence community shapes policymaking and the unique challenges of assessing China’s military capabilities. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration with external experts and the need for transparency in national security narratives. Collins also explores the concept of 'narrative intelligence' and strategies to enhance long-term forecasting, addressing complexities in the U.S.-China relationship.

Peter Harrell, who advised on international economics in the Biden administration, and Nazak Nikakhtar, a former Trump official focused on China policy, delve into the future of U.S. competition strategies. They explore the bipartisan agreement on facing China and the impact of leadership on policy effectiveness. The duo also offers insights into export controls, the need for robust manufacturing, and innovative supply chain solutions. Their candid advice for future U.S. leadership highlights the importance of collaboration and strategic foresight in addressing global competition.

Jeffrey Ding, a leading US scholar on China’s AI from George Washington University and author of "Technology and the Rise of Great Powers," discusses the pivotal role of general-purpose technologies in shaping global power dynamics. He emphasizes that while innovation is crucial, the true test lies in diffusion capacity. Historical examples from the UK and Soviet Union illustrate the challenges of adopting new technologies. Ding also explores how decentralized systems contributed to America's Cold War success and warns against complacency in US-China tech competition.

Brian Pomper, a partner at Akin Gump and former Chief International Trade Counsel, dives deep into the intricacies of global patent policy. He discusses the historical journey of America's innovation from the Constitution to the age of patent trolls and big tech's impact on the patent landscape. The fierce patent battle between Apple and Samsung highlights crucial issues surrounding standard essential patents. Brian also addresses how China's patent litigation approach is stirring debate in Europe, emphasizing the critical intersection of patent policy and international trade.

William Henagan and Robert Obayda, directors at the NSC, share their expertise on the intersection of industrial policy and national security. They discuss the strategic collaboration between Canada, Finland, and the U.S. on icebreakers, emphasizing their critical role in the Arctic. The conversation touches on why cranes are vital for national security and the significance of positive incentives in American industrial policy. They also explore the geopolitical implications of the global shipbuilding industry, highlighting the need for cooperative approaches to maintain competitive advantage.

Chris Kirchhoff, a founding member of the Defense Innovation Unit and former Obama NSC member, shares insights on revolutionizing military practices. He reveals the DIU's struggle against bureaucracy and its strategic pivot towards emerging technologies. Kirchhoff discusses the necessity of reallocating defense spending to innovative tech companies and draws parallels with commercial advancements in space. He also warns of potential pitfalls in AI governance, advocating for a proactive approach to ensure national security amidst rapid technological change.

Ben Schwartz, the former director for national security at the CHIPS Program Office, shares insights from his work managing a $39 billion grant program focused on reshoring semiconductor manufacturing. He discusses the balance between economic growth and national security in the context of the CHIPS Act. Schwartz elaborates on the challenges of reshoring and friend-shoring in an era of Chinese dominance, while addressing the complexities of supply chain data collection and compliance hurdles for semiconductor companies.

Will Lasry, a Montreal-based designer and founder of Glass Factory, dives into the intricacies of clothing manufacturing. He unpacks how distressed denim is made and discusses the rising trend of 'Made in India' over traditional labels. The conversation sheds light on ethical issues like Xinjiang cotton and the environmental impacts of production. Lasry's mission for transparency in fashion is central, as he highlights the challenges of globalization and the critical role of communication in the journey from design to market.

Arnab Datta, Director of Policy Implementation at Employ America, and Matt Klein, author behind the Overshoot newsletter, delve into pressing economic topics. They dissect JD Vance's views on dollar dominance and industrial policy, offering a humorous take on legislative strategies. The discussion also covers the evolving role of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and its lessons for managing critical minerals. Plus, Arnab shares insights into policy entrepreneurship, while Matt offers a lighthearted comparison between fatherhood and Navy SEAL training.

Senator Todd Young from Indiana, a key player in technology legislation and the Chips and Science Act, dives into pressing issues facing Congress. He discusses the potential impact of a second Trump term on innovation, explores the intricacies of AI policy, and advocates for an Office of Global Competition Analysis. Young also addresses high-skill immigration and national security concerns while navigating the complexities of bipartisan support for tech funding. Tune in for insights on the future of U.S. tech legislation amidst a shifting political landscape.