

Sharp China with Bill Bishop
Andrew Sharp and Sinocism’s Bill Bishop
Understanding China and how China impacts the world. Hosted by Andrew Sharp and Bill Bishop.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 31, 2025 • 19min
(Preview) July Politburo Meeting Takeaways and Trump’s Evolving Approach to China
The podcast dives into the latest insights from the July Politburo meeting, shaking up China's economic strategy and setting the stage for the Fourth Plenum. Tensions rise as they discuss Trump's evolving approach to China, hinting at a shift towards dealmaking and potentially softening stances on contentious issues like chips and Taiwan. The hosts also examine the impact of overcapacity in industries and the challenges entrepreneurs face amid government pressures. Tune in for an engaging analysis of U.S.-China relations and the implications of recent political maneuvers!

Jul 23, 2025 • 11min
(Preview) Xi on Development and Three-Patting Cadres; PRC Venture Investing; Exit Ban Controversies; H20s and a New Trump Narrative; The Big Tariff
Xi Jinping emphasizes rational marketplaces, proposing a shift in growth strategy across sectors. There's a deep dive into the challenges facing Chinese startups amidst receding U.S. venture capital. The podcast discusses two controversial exit bans on American citizens in China, highlighting their differences. Additionally, there are mixed signals regarding the Trump administration's approach to China. Stay tuned for insights into tariffs and the evolving landscape of China's tech industry.

Jul 17, 2025 • 10min
(Preview) Nvidia Can Sell H20 Chips to China Again; Trump Softening on China?; A Flurry of Xi Activity; Yang Hansen at NBA Summer League
Nvidia is back in the chip game, gaining permission to sell H20 chips to China, signaling a potential thaw in U.S.-China relations. Discussions turn to the implications of this policy shift, with speculations on rare earth exports and a possible softening stance from Trump. Meanwhile, Xi Jinping is busy, and there's a spotlight on the real estate sector as stimulus efforts face delays. The episode wraps with insights on leadership changes in Beijing and highlights from Yang Hansen's standout performance at the NBA Summer League.

10 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 1h 12min
Wang Yi’s Message on Ukraine; Continued EU Tensions; Deflation and ‘Disorderly’ Competition; Extended Thoughts on Two Months of Xi Rumors
Tensions between China and the EU rise as Wang Yi discusses Ukraine, urging a mindset shift rather than trade adjustments. Domestic economic challenges loom with overcapacity and fierce competition affecting consumption. Speculation circulates around Xi Jinping’s leadership and health, raising questions about his political future. Amidst this, the unique dynamics of TikTok's U.S. strategy and recent developments in Chinese basketball provide an entertaining backdrop to serious discussions.

Jun 25, 2025 • 8min
(Preview) The PRC and the Past Two Weeks in Iran; Ten Speeches in Taiwan; London Framework Faltering?; All Eyes on the EU
The discussion begins by examining China's cautious stance on the recent attacks in Iran and concerns over regional stability. President Lai's speeches on Taiwan provoke a stern response from the PRC, hinting at a tumultuous summer ahead. The faltering London agreement between the U.S. and China is scrutinized as tensions rise. Meanwhile, EU leaders are taking a hard line, especially with the upcoming summit looming. The segment wraps up by highlighting ongoing legislative issues surrounding TikTok and a revived focus on PRC controversies.

Jun 17, 2025 • 14min
(Preview) A US-China Trade Framework and Continuing Rare Earth Fun; The PRC and the War in Iran; Challenges in China's Car Industry?
Dive into the turbulent waters of US-China trade relations as negotiations unfold, revealing rare earth leverage and pressures on both sides. Explore China's delicate stance on the Israel-Iran conflict, and how its internal strategies are influenced by these global tensions. Plus, uncover the struggles facing China's auto industry amidst political maneuvers and rumors. Get ready for a whirlwind of geopolitical insights and economic strategies in a rapidly changing landscape.

Jun 11, 2025 • 12min
(Preview) US-China Meetings and De-Escalation; Chokepoint Clarity; Embassies in London and Spies in Russia; Xi's Latest Curbs on Party Boozing
Tensions between the U.S. and China are on the table as both nations seek to de-escalate following recent meetings. The discussions reveal the U.S.'s concerns regarding China’s rare earth leverage and potential easing of tech export controls. A surprising connection emerges with espionage fears tied to a Chinese embassy in the UK. Meanwhile, Xi Jinping's efforts to curb party excesses make headlines, and a notable visit by Victor Wembanyama to a Shaolin Monastery adds an unexpected twist to the conversation.

Jun 5, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Trade War Becomes a Supply Chain War; A Global Rare Earth Emergency; Xu Qiliang and the Xi Rumor Mill
Tensions rise as the U.S. grapples with China's rare earth export restrictions and the implications for global industries. The discussion delves into America's reliance on these critical minerals, highlighting urgent calls for alternative sources. A focus on chip controls reveals the challenges in securing semiconductor supply chains, all while U.S.-China negotiations hang in the balance. Additionally, price wars in the electric vehicle sector signal deeper automotive industry issues, with major implications for market dynamics.

6 snips
May 29, 2025 • 10min
(Preview) Made in China 2025 and What Comes Next; EV Price Wars; The EU and Its China Dilemmas; Xi and His Rivals
The discussion kicks off with the ambitious Made in China 2025 strategy and its implications for the future. Electric vehicle competition heats up, hinting at a fierce market battle ahead. The EU's plans to collaborate with the US on China policies are unveiled, revealing the challenges of forming a unified front. Meanwhile, espionage warnings from the MSS and hacking accusations against Czechia add tension. The dynamics of factional politics within the Chinese Communist Party also come into focus, hinting at possible rivalries and challenges faced by Xi Jinping.

May 21, 2025 • 10min
(Preview) Chips and the Geneva Consensus; US Policy and the Chinese Century; Controversy Over Solar Power Inverters
The discussion highlights the U.S. export controls on AI chips, particularly affecting Huawei's Ascend chips. Tensions rise as policymakers debate the Geneva Consensus on chip regulation. There's also a focus on U.S.-China dynamics, with plans for collaboration in AI investments with Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Voices in China advocate for technological self-reliance, while rogue devices in solar inverters stir controversy. The overall narrative explores the strategic challenges and responses shaping the future of tech diplomacy.