With or without tariffs, China’s global rise is under way | The Take

Summary

This Al Jazeera podcast explores China's evolving role on the global stage amidst shifting US policies under the Trump administration. Reporter Tony Chang, back in China for the first time since 2019, reflects on the country's booming tech sector, AI advancements, and economic challenges, including the impact of tariffs and internal issues like excessive housing stock. As the US retreats from global affairs, China positions itself as a stabilizing force. However, deep contradictions remain, with some citizens facing unemployment and economic uncertainties, while others enjoy newfound prosperity. The episode highlights China's ambitious growth targets and complex geopolitical dynamics.

Takeaways

• 😀 China is emerging as a global leader, with the U.S. retreating, especially under the Trump administration’s policies, which have inadvertently benefitted China.
• 😀 China's technological boom, particularly in AI and robotics, is accelerating, positioning it as a future tech powerhouse on the world stage.
• 😀 The U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods are having a tangible impact on Chinese businesses, especially exporters who are concerned about future increases in trade restrictions.
• 😀 Despite the U.S. trade war, China has set an ambitious 5% GDP growth target for the year, though it is seen as an optimistic goal given the current global economic environment.
• 😀 China is focusing heavily on AI to solve both domestic and international economic challenges, leveraging its robust supply chain and advances in AI technologies.
• 😀 Youth unemployment in China is rising, with young people leaving smaller cities in search of better opportunities in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing.
• 😀 The Chinese government is playing an increasingly important diplomatic role, positioning itself as a stabilizing force in international conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza.
• 😀 Domestic economic issues in China include a surplus of unsold housing stock, with over 60 million vacant homes in the country, leading to concerns about the property market’s stability.
• 😀 The U.S. retreat from global involvement has allowed China to step in, particularly in places where U.S. aid and influence once played a significant role, such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
• 😀 Chinese citizens are experiencing increased affluence and economic stability, contributing to a greater sense of national confidence, though personal freedoms remain limited under the current regime.

Q & A

What role is China stepping into on the global stage under the Trump administration?

Under the Trump administration, China is increasingly taking on a role of responsibility and stability, stepping in as a stabilizing force in global politics, especially as the U.S. retreats in certain areas like foreign aid and international negotiations.

How has China's relationship with the U.S. been affected by the Trump administration's policies?

China has been heavily impacted by the Trump administration's tariffs, with 20% of all Chinese goods exported to the U.S. facing new tariffs. This has caused concern, though some Chinese manufacturers are not as worried, as the U.S. remains a major consumer market and there are few alternative suppliers for certain products.

What are some of the advancements in China's tech sector, specifically in robotics and artificial intelligence?

China has made significant strides in robotics, including humanoid robots and AI-driven technologies. Companies like ex Robotics are developing advanced robotic arms that mimic human movements and use AI to power their systems. Despite not yet matching the U.S. in fine motor control, China's rapidly growing tech sector, especially in AI, positions the country to lead in the future.

How is China approaching its economic challenges, despite a trade war with the U.S.?

Despite the trade war with the U.S., China has set an ambitious 5% GDP growth target for the year. While it faces challenges, such as tariffs and an uncertain trade environment, China is betting on its technological advancements, domestic manufacturing, and AI to propel economic growth.

What challenges is China facing regarding its domestic economy, particularly with real estate and youth unemployment?

China is dealing with excess housing stock, with millions of vacant homes across the country, contributing to a property bubble. Additionally, there is a rise in youth unemployment, as many young people are migrating to bigger cities in search of better job opportunities, leaving smaller cities like Yinko struggling with economic stagnation.

How does China's foreign policy approach differ under current leadership, especially compared to the U.S.?

China's foreign policy, under President Xi Jinping, has positioned the country as a stabilizer in global conflicts, such as the Ukraine and Gaza issues. This contrasts with the U.S., which has withdrawn from certain global engagements, leading China to step in and advocate for peace and humanitarian efforts, positioning itself as a responsible global leader.

Why is China hesitant to fill the vacuum left by U.S. foreign aid cuts?

While China is stepping into some spaces left by the U.S. in terms of diplomatic influence, it is not rushing to fill the void left by cuts in U.S. foreign aid. China's government is not keen on taking over humanitarian aid programs in regions like Southeast Asia, where U.S. involvement had been significant, especially in refugee camps like those on the Myanmar-Thailand border.

What is the situation like in cities like Yinko, and how does it reflect China's economic challenges?

Yinko, a city that had heavily invested in luxury housing and industrial development, has become a 'ghost city,' with many of its luxury apartments and convention centers standing empty. The local economy is struggling, as young people are leaving for larger cities, and businesses like a local pizza restaurant are failing due to a lack of customers, highlighting the challenges of overdevelopment and youth unemployment in certain areas.

How is China dealing with issues like the trade war and growing internal concerns?

Internally, China faces growing doubts about its economic stability and long-term prosperity. While people have become more affluent and confident, the country faces significant challenges such as the massive property bubble, empty housing, and rising youth unemployment. Externally, the trade war with the U.S. continues to cause strain, though China remains determined to push forward with its growth plans, particularly in technology.

How do Chinese citizens perceive the balance between economic growth and personal liberties?

Many Chinese citizens accept the trade-off between economic growth and limited personal liberties. While personal freedoms are restricted, the promise of security, stability, and economic prosperity is seen as more important by the majority. However, as their wealth grows and their confidence increases, there may be a slow push for greater freedom of expression and personal rights.