As Donald Trump prepares to return to office next year several key questions about US-China relations remain unclear. His planned 60% tariffs on Chinese goods might push companies to look for cheaper options in south-east Asia (though his idea for 10-20% tariffs on friendly nations could limit this)
Business ties create complex dynamics: Steve Wynn has big casino investments in Macao while Elon Musk whose Tesla success depends on Beijingʼs support‚ has shown pro-China views. Trumpʼs own history shows how business interests affect policy-making - he changed his mind about ZTE after talking to Chinese leaders in 18ʼ and shifted position on Huawei following a meeting with Xi Jinping in 19ʼ
Kind of pro-China
The choice between ideological and geo-political approaches remains unclear. Marco Rubio who might become Secretary of State has strong anti-communist views but Trump himself praised Xiʼs iron-fist leadership style
In other China news‚ a student bike-riding trend from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng got shut down by authorities after growing too big. Students started the 40-mile rides for fun (and dumplings) but officials saw it as a potential threat when numbers reached 100000
- Carried Chinese flags
- Sang national anthem
- Got warnings from schools
- Created traffic problems
Taiwan is trying to get on Trumps good side by offering a $15-billion arms deal including:
- 60 F-35 jets
- One Aegis destroyer
- About 400 Patriot missiles
Meanwhile Chinese authorities are looking into insurance fraud at China Evergrande Group with several ex-executives likely detained. The investigation comes after problems at AstraZeneca triggered wider industry checks