Sinica Podcast

Eric Olander, host of the China Global South Podcast, dives deep into post-capture dynamics following Nicolás Maduro's arrest. He examines how China interprets U.S. actions in Venezuela and its implications for international law and regional security. Olander highlights China's nuanced understanding of Latin America and challenges the idea of fixed 'spheres of influence.' He discusses Beijing's political tactics, the economic vulnerabilities in its Venezuelan dealings, and how military planners are analyzing these shifts. The conversation reveals the complexities of China’s engagement in the global South.

In this engaging discussion, historian Michael Brenes and international relations expert Van Jackson delve into their book, exploring how the U.S.-China rivalry reshapes domestic politics and weakens democracy. They reveal how framing this relationship as a geopolitical threat encourages neo-McCarthyism and detracts crucial resources from social welfare. The duo critiques the bipartisan consensus driving security-heavy policies and advocates for a new 'geopolitics of peace,' emphasizing cooperation over conflict. Their insights challenge conventional narratives and propose a refreshing approach to international relations.

In this discussion, Paul Triolo, a tech policy specialist and Vice President at Albright Stonebridge Group, dives deep into President Trump's recent decision to approve Nvidia H200 sales to vetted Chinese customers. He explores the implications for U.S. chip export controls and the evolving landscape of semiconductor geopolitics. Triolo also critiques the strategic contradictions in current policies and examines how China's chip industry is adapting. The conversation unveils the complexities of technology competition and offers insights into the future of U.S.-China relations.

Mark Sidel, a law professor and leading authority on Chinese NGOs, discusses the dramatic changes in foreign NGO operations in China since the 2016 legislation. He delves into how the political landscape shifted due to global events, leading to stricter oversight and requiring NGOs to navigate complex bureaucratic channels. Sidel categorizes the various responses of NGOs—survivors, hibernators, and more—and explains how the Chinese state channels foreign organizations toward non-advocacy service work, reshaping the domestic nonprofit ecosystem.

In this discussion, Deborah Seligsohn, an expert in climate diplomacy and former U.S. Embassy official in Beijing, shares insights on China's role at COP30. She highlights China's impressive technology leadership contrasted by its reluctance to take the lead in negotiations. Deborah reveals the dynamics of U.S.-China relations at the conference and the significance of the real-time air quality monitor installed by the U.S. Embassy. She also sheds light on how Brazil's inclusive approach and rapid agenda creation made COP30 a unique experience.

Zhong Na, a novelist and essayist, delves into the harrowing Silicon Valley murder case that sparked a national conversation in China. She reveals how this tragedy holds up a mirror to the cracks in China's meritocratic ideals and the shifting gender dynamics among immigrants. Zhong contrasts the U.S. and Chinese media coverage, reflects on her personal connection to the case, and discusses the diminishing allure of the American Dream. With insights on social class, parental pressures, and online gender discourse, she crafts a compelling narrative of contemporary Chinese experiences.

Finbarr Bermingham, Brussels correspondent for the South China Morning Post, delves into the intriguing Nexperia semiconductor dispute, illustrating the clash between U.S. pressures and European strategies. He reveals how the Netherlands invoked a Cold War law to seize control of Nexperia amid fears of technology transfer to China. The discussion also touches on China's retaliatory export controls and the complexities of European policies, highlighting how the saga could reshape EU investment strategies and the dynamics between China and Europe.

Jeremy Goldkorn, co-founder of a renowned podcast and an expert on Chinese media, reunites with Kaiser to dissect the evolving sentiment toward China in the West. They explore how U.S. political chaos makes China appear more competent, the diminishing influence of hardline China hawks, and the surprising ways younger Americans engage with Chinese culture via platforms like TikTok. Jeremy also reflects on his personal shift in perspective and warns of the risks of overcorrection in this changing discourse.

Lizzi Lee, an economist at the Asia Society Policy Institute, dives into China's economic landscape, specifically the impact of the 4th Plenary Session. She unpacks the concept of 'involution' in sectors like EVs and solar, explaining how local government incentives fuel overcompetition. Lizzi challenges perceptions of China's domestic demand and critiques the framing of 'overcapacity.' She also highlights the role of China's industrial strategy in the global green transition and discusses the implications of the Trump-Xi meeting on future diplomatic relations.

Daniel Kurtz-Phelan, editor of Foreign Affairs and expert on U.S.-China relations, explores the evolving American discourse on China. He delves into how historical instances, like the Marshall mission, inform today’s policies and debates. Kurtz-Phelan discusses the challenge of incorporating authentic Chinese voices and critique's Foreign Affairs' role in reflecting diverse viewpoints. As the 'vibe shift' broadens the consensus, he underscores the importance of nuanced discussions and emphasizes the need to avoid simplistic Cold War narratives.