Sharp China Podcast

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow Notes:On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with recent meetings between US officials and PRC counterparts in Munich and Vienna, including complaints from both PRC Director of the CCP Central Foreign Affairs Commission and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong that the U.S. has harassed PRC students trying to enter the U.S., as well as a note about China's designation as a "major drug source country." From there: The MSS takes to WeChat to criticize the CIA, while the FBI Director warns the Munich Security Forum that Chinese malware capabilities have reached an unprecedented scale. From there: A Financial Times op-ed argues that America has done a poor job countering PRC information warfare, and Congressional staffers debate a blacklist policy for lobbying firms doing business with select PRC entities. At the end: Congressman Mike Gallagher announces he won't seek reelection, while Lionel Messi explains himself (again).Related readings:Holiday data OK; Emancipating minds; Kinmen; Party History; Wang Yi in Europe -- Sinocism China protests treatment of its students at Dulles and other U.S. entry points -- NBC News Memorandum on Presidential Determination on Major Drug Transit or Major Illicit Drug Producing Countries for Fiscal Year 2024 -- The White House Spycraft and Statecraft -- Foreign Affairs National security authority accuses CIA of ‘bringing suit against its victims’ in bilingual article, showing anti-spy moves justified, legitimate -- Global Times FBI Director Says China Cyberattacks on U.S. Infrastructure Now at Unprecedented Scale -- WSJ The US needs a better strategic narrative or it will cede influence to China -- FT Lawmakers weigh blacklist for firms lobbying for Chinese military-linked companies -- Politico TikTok hires Biden-connected firm as it finds itself under D.C.’s microscope -- Politico GOP Rising Star and China Watchdog Mike Gallagher to Quit Congress -- WSJ After fallout in China, Messi insists politics had nothing to do with missing game in Hong Kong -- AP Lionel Messi's official statement about missing the game in Hong Kong -- YouTube John Cena apologises to China for calling Taiwan a country (english subtitles) -- YouTubeTo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow Notes:On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with another week of volatility in and around the PRC markets, including a crash on Monday, stabilization as the week unfolded, reports of a meeting between Xi and regulators, and changes at the CSRC. Then: For the first time in 17 years Mexico has supplanted China as the biggest U.S. trade partner, which raises questions about the future of the bilateral trade relationship and volume of PRC goods that have been diverted through countries like Mexico and Vietnam. At the end: The future of green energy manufacturing in the EU and China, a look at the sad and absurd week of controversy surrounding Lionel Messi, and a Happy Lunar New Year to all Sharp China listeners. Click here for instructions to add the podcast to your preferred player.Happy year of the Dragon!Related readings:CSRC head replaced; Government wants more EV exports; Wei Fenghe absence; Messi’s groin good enough for Japan -- Sinocism Stocks; Xi Thought; Nukes -- Sinocism Xi Can’t Use 2015 Playbook to Calm China Markets, Investors Say -- Bloomberg Xi to Discuss China Stocks With Regulators as Rescue Bets Build -- Bloomberg Paul Krugman 2024 - China’s Economy Is in Serious Trouble -- N.Y. Times Paul Krugman 2013 - Hitting China's Wall -- N.Y. TimesChina’s well-to-do are under assault from every side -- The Economist How a U.S. Embassy post about giraffes became an outlet for despair about China’s tumbling stock markets -- NBC News China dethroned as top source of US imports after 17 years, replaced by Mexico: census data -- SCMP A China-U.S. Decoupling? You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet -- WSJ EU mum as solar industry time bomb ticks -- Politico With solar industry in crisis, Europe in a bind over Chinese imports -- Reuters Messi is playing in a match that concerns integrity: Global Times editorial -- Global Times China says Messi's absence in Hong Kong match beyond 'realm of sports' as fury builds -- Reuters

This episode of Sharp China is free for everyone.Show Notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the revival of Article 23 and thoughts on the landscape in Hong Kong as its laws continue to converge with the mainland. Then: A step back for the stock markets after last week’s stabilization efforts, another politburo meeting comes and goes without any announcement of a plenum, and a question about buying real estate in China. At the end: A listener has a question about President Trump and Taiwan, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is grilled by Senator Tom Cotton, Secretary Raimondo has concerns about EV data collection, and it’s the one-year anniversary of the spy balloon.Click here for instructions to add the podcast to your preferred player.To subscribe to Sinocism and gain access to all podcast episodes as well as every issue of Sinocism from Bill Bishop, click here.To subscribe to Stratechery Plus and receive daily writing from Ben Thompson and daily podcasts from Andrew Sharp, click here.Related readings:Article 23 for Hong Kong; Real estate; Economic policy; Bill Burns on China -- Sinocism Stock Market; China Evergrande liquidation; US-China; Another missile cadre goes down -- Sinocism Hong Kong unveils new security law in further repeal of liberties -- Nikkei Asia Hong Kong activist publisher Jimmy Lai pleads not guilty to sedition and collusion charges -- AP Hong Kong announces plans to ‘trawl the world for talents’ -- CNBC China Stocks Sink to Five-Year Low as Traders Unwind Rescue Bets -- Bloomberg China Politburo Avoids Setting Date for Key Economic Meeting -- BloombergChina Says Trump Could Abandon Taiwan If He Wins US Election -- Bloomberg Trump says Taiwan 'took our business away' -- YouTube Senator Tom Cotton’s exchange with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew:Cotton defends pressing TikTok CEO on ties to Chinese Communist Party -- The Hill TikTok Struggles to Protect U.S. Data From Its China Parent -- Wall St. Journal Jake Sullivan on the Future of US-China Relations -- CFR Raimondo Says Chinese EVs Are a National Security Risk For US, EU -- Asia Financial Spy Balloon Memories -- Politico EUTo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow Notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with an expanding list of sensitive sites around China at which Tesla vehicles have been deemed a security risk. With the PRC electric vehicle industry expanding every year, what does the future look like for Elon Musk and Tesla in China? And as PRC auto manufacturing outpaces domestic demand, how might the rest of the world react as Chinese cars flood foreign markets? Then: A few new messages and policies emerge as Beijing’s response to weak investor sentiment begins to crystallize and the markets appear to stabilize. At the end: More questions about the PRC response to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, a meeting this weekend between Jake Sullivan and Wang Yi, and the latest adventures on WeChat from the Ministry of State Security.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow Notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with last weekend’s election in Taiwan, where William Lai and the DPP retained their hold on the presidency but lost a majority in the legislature. Topics include: The reactions from China and around the world, continued questions about a timeline for “reunification”, Hong Kong as a cautionary tale for th…

This episode of Sharp China is free for everyone.Show notes:On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a note about this weekend’s elections in Taiwan before turning back to the upheaval in the PLA. Topics include: Bloomberg's reporting on a US intelligence assessment, realism on PRC capabilities, the history of PLA corruption, and recent reporting about China's nuclear ambitions. From there: Reactions to the foreign affairs work conference in late December, why Beijing sees opportunities around the world, and thoughts on Liu Jianchao's visit to the US and his future as a possible successor to Qin Gang. At the end: Xi reconnects with old friends in Iowa, balloon updates will continue forever, a listener provides more context on a December Fox News report, and a Christmas present offers a path forward for the National Zoo.Related readings:CCDI Plenum; PLA corruption; MSS, MI6 and 007; Xizang; Apple AirDrop -- Sinocism New Minister of Defense and more signs of a PLA purge; Foreign Affairs Work Conference; Reprieve for gaming?; Jimmy Lai -- Sinocism Taiwan’s Air Raid Alarm on Satellite Causes Pre-Election Anxiety -- Bloomberg US Intelligence Shows Flawed China Missiles Led Xi to Purge Army -- Bloomberg Thread by Kevin Yam 任建峰 -- X China Quietly Rebuilds Secretive Base for Nuclear Tests -- N.Y. Times How China’s Echo Chamber Threatens Taiwan -- Foreign Affairs China's Power: Up for Debate 2023 PM Session -- YouTube China's foreign minister contender seeks peace, including on Taiwan -- Nikkei Asia To old friend in Iowa, Xi says world requires stability in China-US ties -- Reuters U.S. intelligence officials determined the Chinese spy balloon used a U.S. internet provider to communicate -- NBC News CCP-tied group is quietly fueling US-based climate initiatives: tax filings -- Fox News China calls for peaceful coexistence and promises pandas on the 45th anniversary of U.S.-China ties -- Reuters Dall-E’s rendering of a DF-4 missile fueled with water:To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill talk through questions and key areas to watch during the year to come in China. First: A look at the economy a year after the end of dynamic zero covid, including a Bloomberg report on the real estate market and household wealth, MSS warnings about discourse traps, and a corruption crackdown that's likely to continue. Then: Foreign policy questions include ongoing tensions with the Philippines and Taiwan, an ODNI report on election interference in the US, and a tactical stabilization with the Americans that may be tested as early as January. At the end: Andrew runs through various memories from the past year, including 72 hours of unmanned airship sightings, a Barbie controversy, the God of Money menu, Ambassador Rahm Emanuel, Gina Raimondo’s trip to Beijing, Gavin Newsom, and an emailer’s submission for a new Sharp China logo.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with thoughts on the readout from the Central Economic Work Conference, including the emphasis on "progress" alongside stability, high-quality development and high-level security, PRC attempts at brand management, and where infrastructure investment might be going. From there: More water cannons, more controversy, and the same concerns as problems persist between the Chinese Coast Guard and the Philippines in the South China Sea. At the end: Frustrations with the hawk-dove spectrum, Henry Kissinger's complicated legacy, and questions about flights to China, academic engagement, and good Chinese TV dramas.Related readings:Central Economic Work Conference; Xi in Vietnam; Short video crackdown -- SinocismCentral Economic Work Conference; Progress vs stability; PRC-Philippines standoffs; Fentanyl -- SinocismCEWC 2024 readout -- Translation by SinocismRise in Chinese steel output drives sharp rally in iron ore -- FTU.S. Support for the Philippines in the South China Sea -- State Department Philippine festive flotilla turns back after Chinese interception -- The Guardian China’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis -- MoFA What It Feels Like To Be the Target of China’s Water Cannons - NYTChina uses water cannons anew vs Filipino ships in West Philippine Sea -- YouTube:What Henry Kissinger wrought -- Vox What the Henry Kissinger Obituaries Got Wrong - POLITICO - James MannAmbassador Xie Feng met with former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger -- MoFATo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This episode of Sharp China is free for everyone.Show notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin by parsing the claims contained in a controversial piece from Politico, including thoughts on the spectrum of rumors surrounding this year’s disappearing cabinet members, the smaller-than-ever circle of true insiders in Xi’s China, and certain details of present-day CPC politics and that are beyond dispute. From there: Several stories in and around the finance sector, where there have been more warnings against relaying bad news, there is still no third plenum announcement, the Central Financial Work Commission has provided new guidance, and Moody’s is taking precautions for its local employees. At the end: Checking in with Secretary Gina Raimondo, Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, the House of Representatives, and Huawei's role in the PRC chip constellation. To subscribe to Sinocism and gain access to all podcast episodes as well as every issue of Sinocism from Bill Bishop, click here.To subscribe to Stratechery Plus and receive daily writing from Ben Thompson and daily podcasts from Andrew Sharp, click here.Related readings:Finance with Chinese characteristics; Politico on recent elite rumors; Wang-Blinken chat; Nuclear power; Vaping; Moody's Unswervingly Follow the Path of Financial Development with Chinese Characteristics -- Translation by Sinocism.comChina’s Xi goes full Stalin with purge -- Politico EU China military official warns of ‘erroneous ideological trends’ spreading in PLA -- SCMP Media groups raise concerns following report of ‘missing’ Hong Kong journalist in China -- CNN Matter of minutes: Why Cheng Lei did not see her family for three years -- Sydney Morning Herald China Investment Bank Bans Displays of Wealth -- Bloomberg China’s Xi Seen Delaying Key Economic Plenum, Defying Norms -- Bloomberg Xi Jinping Is Asserting Tighter Control of Finance in China -- N.Y. Times Moody’s advised staff to work from home ahead of China outlook cut -- FT Moody’s Faces Growing Backlash Over Its Negative Outlook on China -- WSJ RNDF 2023 Fireside Chat – The Honorable Gina M. Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce -- YouTube China Secretly Transforms Huawei Into Most Powerful Chip War Weapon -- Blooomberg News House Speaker Johnson Drops China Investment Curbs From Defense Bill -- Bloomberg To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a new generation of foreign influencers said to be assisting in Xi's campaign to “tell China's story well” and an update on Wolf Warrior diplomacy as 2023 draws to a close. Then: Q&A with the Sinocism chat, including a request for tangible signs of fentanyl progress, regional governments vying for debt relief, Li Qiang at the Central Financial Commission, and a look at why and how PRC citizens are moving investments outside China. At the end: One listener's theory on why Xi may retain power for years to come, the outbreaks straining hospitals around China, and a renowned Chef's egg fried rice ignites a controversyClick here for instructions to add the podcast to your preferred player.Related readings:Politburo meeting; No date for Third Plenum; More Party in foreign affairs work; Support for private enterprises; Myanmar-PRC border; 蛋炒饭 -- SinocismXi in Shanghai; Politburo studies foreign legal work; Xi and Putin's gas; ICBC corruption -- Sinocism Singing from the CCP’s songsheet -- Australian Strategic Policy Institute Friendly foreign influencers win growing following in China -- Financial Times Sidney Rittenberg, Idealistic American Aide to Mao Who Evolved to Counsel Capitalists, Dies at 98 -- N.Y. Times Zhao Lijian: China reassigns combative ‘Wolf Warrior’ diplomat -- BBC China Premier Li Qiang Named Head of Powerful Financial Body -- Bloomberg Gold Bars and Tokyo Apartments: How Money Is Flowing Out of China. -- N.Y. Times Everything You Need to Know About China’s Child Pneumonia Outbreak -- Bloomberg China's Next Epidemic Is Already Here - Foreign PolicyFamous Chef Accused of Mocking Mao, Again -- China Digital Times Chef Wang teaches you: Homestyle egg fried rice. Several key steps, let's learn together! -- Chef Wang Mao Zedong’s son died over a bowl of egg-fried rice and the CCP continues to cover it up -- State of Play in China Chef Wang’s Youtube channel, now English subtitles available in the settingsChef Wang has one of the best outdoor kitchens in the world:To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow notes:On today's show Andrew and Bill look back at a week of news from San Francisco. Topics include: A "tactical stabilization" in the US-China relationship, world leaders comparing cars, concessions from the US and a PRC commitment on fentanyl, whether China would prefer Biden or Trump in 2024, and what else was achieved on both sides of the Bide…

Show notes:After one year of Sharp Tech and Sharp China, a summit with Ben Thompson, Bill Bishop and Andrew Sharp to discuss podcasting, the chip ban, the US-China relationship and beyond. To read the full transcript, click here.We recorded this podcast the afternoon of the Xi-Biden meeting on November 15. Andrew and I will record a separate podcast early next week in which we will discuss that meeting.To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with Xi Jinping’s trip to San Francisco and a likely meeting with President Biden next week. Topics include: A planned dinner with business leaders, why the PRC hasn’t yet confirmed the trip, modest goals for both sides, more ambitious concessions China and the US may seek. From there: Janet Yellen’s column in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal offers one calculation for foreign capital flight, and why changes at the as yet unscheduled Third Plenum may not allay investor anxiety. At the end: The detention of Zhang Hongli, a.k.a. Lee Zhang, in what appears to be another corruption investigation, warming relations between the PRC and Australia, and the pandas in Washington D.C. prepare for a long flight. Click here for instructions to add the podcast to your preferred player.Related readings:PRC-Australia back on the "right path"; He Lifeng to DC; Investor detentions and foreign funds outflows; Vanke; Hydropower -- Sinocism More state capital for key areas; Prepping for Xi in San Francisco; More real estate support likely; PLA; Huawei AI chips; BRI -- Sinocism US Defense Chief Lloyd Austin Asks to Meet With China’s Still-Unnamed Counterpart -- BloombergThere’s a way for the U.S. to compete with China — and to work with China -- Washington Post Foreign Firms Pull Billions in Earnings Out of China -- WSJ Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China -- Substack: China Opens Corruption Probe Into Ex-ICBC Banker Zhang Hongli -- Bloomberg Inside a Brazen Scheme to Woo China: Gifts, Golf and a $4,254 Wine -- N.Y. Times Private schools rethink China future after flunking growth test -- Reuters Australian and Chinese leaders talk pandas and wine as ties improve despite disagreements -- APHere’s How the Pandas Are Getting From the National Zoo to China -- Washingtonian The hidden power of China’s pandas — and why the U.S. is losing them all -- Washington Post Surprise panda goodbye -- AxiosTo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This episode of Sharp China is free for everyone.Show notes:On today’s show Bill and Andrew begin with the passing of Li Keqiang, the grief that swept China over the weekend, and the various party protocols that were set in motion to control the mourning process this week. From there: Another Politburo meeting comes and goes with no news about a third plenum to devise new economic policy, the modest progress and persistent structural challenges animating the US-China relationship in 2023, and the MSS turns its eyes to meteorology. At the end: Extended thoughts on Gavin Newsom’s trip to China, a look at the strategic advantages China brings to the global market for a select group of commodities, the Foreign Ministry complains about Rahm Emanuel’s approach to diplomacy, and Yao Ming makes an appearance for the NBA’s opening week. To subscribe to Sinocism and gain access to all podcast episodes as well as every issue of Sinocism from Bill Bishop, click here.To subscribe to Stratechery Plus and receive daily writing from Ben Thompson and daily podcasts from Andrew Sharp, click here.Related readings:Li Keqiang; Financial Work Conference; Xi on women; US-China; Xiangshan Forum -- Sinocism Xi meets California Governor Newsom; Biden warns on Second Thomas Shoal; Aricle 23 coming to Hong Kong; Xi Thought on Culture -- Sinocism Central Financial Work Conference; Biden and Xi to meet; Li Keqiang -- Sinocism ‘Other leaders are corrupt’: Li Keqiang mourning poses challenge for Beijing -- FT Post by Wenhao on X -- @ThisIsWenhaoU.S. President Joe Biden Meets with Wang Yi - MoFAReadout of President Joe Biden’s Meeting with People’s Republic of China Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission and Foreign Minister Wang Yi -- The White House If China is forced to resolve the Taiwan question through the use of force, it will be a legitimate and just war: Lieutenant General -- Global TimesBeijing’s top spy agency cracks down on illegal foreign weather stations amid push to stop data leaving China -- South China Morning Post California Gov. Gavin Newsom plows into child while playing basketball in China -- KTLA:China’s Xi Welcomes Gavin Newsom in Beijing With Eye on U.S. Visit -- WSJ Geopollutical Warfare --Post by Rahm Emanuel on X -- @USAmbJapan Post by Rahm Emanuel on X -- @USAmbJapan Exclusive: US military bulk buys Japanese seafood to counter China ban -- Reuters NBA 'first class' in China despite past conflicts, Yao Ming says -- ESPNTo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the latest confrontation between the PRC and the Philippines in the South China Sea, clarity as to PRC maritime tactics that look increasingly like an undeclared blockade, and questions about when and how the US might get involved. From there: Qin Gang and Li Shangfu are formally removed from the State Council, the MSS discloses details of another citizen accused of spying for the US, and leaders of the Five Eyes go to Silicon Valley and 60 Minutes. At the end: Heightened scrutiny of Foxconn in advance of January’s presidential election in Taiwan, Tim Cook goes to China, Jon Stewart leaves Apple, and the New Yorker’s Evan Osnos examines the sentiments in China after Xi Jinping's first decade in power. Related readings:Li Shangfu and Qin Gang; 1T RMB in new debt; Xi visits PBoC and SAFE; Neighborhood diplomacy; AI chip controlsSecond Thomas Shoal approaching a crisis?; Wang Yi to visit the US; Spy games intensify; Real estate, debt and stock market support; Malaise -- Sinocism U.S. Support for our Philippine Allies in the Face of Repeated PRC Harassment in the South China Sea -- U.S. Dept. of State Speak its name: Blockade -- Sealight 2017 - Counter-Coercion Series: Second Thomas Shoal Incident -- Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative CCTV show on the arrest of another alleged American spy:China stealing technology secrets -- from AI to computing and biology, "Five Eyes" intelligence leaders warn -- 60 MinutesFive-Eyes Spies Are Bringing Their China Warnings in From the Cold - Bloomberg Opinion2017 - Killing C.I.A. Informants, China Crippled U.S. Spying Operations -- N.Y. Times China launches investigation into iPhone maker Foxconn, says state media -- FT2016 - How China Built ‘iPhone City’ With Billions in Perks for Apple’s Partner -- N.Y. Times Jon Stewart’s Show on Apple Is Ending -- N.Y. Times China's Age of Malaise -- The New Yorker To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the long-awaited updates to the Biden Administration’s export controls on chips. Topics include: Bad news for Nvidia and good news for PRC semi companies, initial responses from PRC leadership, and follow-up thoughts on the strategic calculus of the U.S. From there: Impromptu TikTok discussion in light of the export controls underscoring the importance of strategic considerations. Then: Xi welcomes Vladimir Putin back to Beijing, the state of the Russia-China partnership, and why Xi and Putin may see opportunity as war erupts in the Middle East. At the end: Brief thoughts on the Belt and Road Initiative, and Bill shares an abridged version of the Sinocism origin story to celebrate the site's six-year anniversary as a paid newsletter.Click here for instructions to add the podcast to your preferred player.Related readings:Commerce Department moves to cut key supply lines to China’s AI industry -- Washington Post U.S. curbs export of more AI chips, including Nvidia H800, to China -- CNBC Stratechery - China Chips and Moore’s LawXinhua Commentary: Belt and Road cooperation to hasten demise of "neocolonialism"Will Xi Jinping’s Gamble on Vladimir Putin Pay Off? -- Bloomberg How the Israel-Hamas War Is Tilting the Global Power Balance in Favor of Russia, China -- Wall Street Journal Rush by west to back Israel erodes developing countries’ support for Ukraine -- FT China Got a Big Contract. Nepal Got Debt and a Pricey Airport. -- N.Y. Times

This episode of Sharp China is free for everyone.Show notes:On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a meeting between Xi Jinping and a congressional delegation led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the latest indication that Xi and the PRC are working toward a trip to APEC in November and a likely meeting with President Biden. From there: Reports of updates to the semiconductor export controls in advance of a Xi visit, Senator Schumer asks Xi and Wang Yi for a swift condemnation of Hamas terror attacks, and whether PRC messaging in the Middle East will deviate from the playbook we saw Russia and Ukraine. Then: The introduction of Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, an analyst's look at the evolution of semiconductor export controls, and why Nvidia reportedly sought to have the aforementioned analyst "sidelined" as policymakers continue to calibrate new restrictions for U.S. exports. At the end: Tim Cook's takes on manufacturing expertise in China, a competing theory as to how that expertise was honed, and Kyrie Irving becomes a global ambassador for ANTA apparel.To subscribe to Sinocism and gain access to all podcast episodes as well as every issue of Sinocism from Bill Bishop, click here.To subscribe to Stratechery Plus and receive daily writing from Ben Thompson and daily podcasts from Andrew Sharp, click here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with a correction to last week’s episode and the latest bizarre twist in the Qin Gang saga. Then: A closer look at the recent clashes between the PLA and the Philippines in the South China Sea, this week’s news at the Scarborough Shoal, the Filipino media strategy under President Marcos, and possible PRC responses as international attention intensifies. From there: Xi welcomes Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to Hangzhou, Syria praises the “counter-terrorism” efforts in Xinjiang, and new information indicates that Uyghur history scholar Rahile Dawut has been sentenced to life in prison. At the end: The rumors of Rahm’s Twitter demise were greatly exaggerated, exploring “Back to Bali” as momentum builds for increased US-China engagement, and the Panda farewell at the National Zoo yields a great Foreign Policy article, memories of a film set in 1994, and uncertainty about the future of Panda Diplomacy in the United States.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow notes:On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with this week's Wall Street Journal reporting on Foreign Minister Qin Gang. As sources in Beijing relay allegations of an affair and a lovechild eligible for a US passport, plenty of questions remain. How could those details have gone undetected before Xi departed from protocol and promoted Qin ahead of …

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with Xi Jinping's visit to Heilongjiang during the G-20 Summit, President Biden's comments on containment and the likelihood of a Taiwan invasion, and why news that Wang Yi will skip the UN General Assembly next week does not necessarily tell us anything about Xi's plans for APEC in November. From there: Rahm Emanuel highlights a disinformation campaign centered on the Maui Wildfires and the disappearance of Defense Minister Li Shangfu, rumors continue to swirl about investigations of party leadership and members of the PLA, and there are reasons to be skeptical of a report that Xi was reprimanded by party elders at Beidaihe. At the end: Espionage arrests in the UK and an interference inquiry in Canada, Apple tries to avoid getting caught in the middle of the US-China rivalry, big decisions loom at the BIS, and a word about pronunciation.

Show notes:On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the news that Xi Jinping will skip this weekend’s G-20 summit in India, a Ministry of State Security warning that the United States has work to do before any Biden-Xi summit later this year, and the ongoing questions surrounding the recent MSS foray into social media and US-China directives. Then: The international media learns more about Huawei’s Mate 60 Pro, what it could mean if reports are true that SMIC -- the largest semiconductor foundry company in mainland China -- assisted Huawei in making 7 nanometer chips, and the various considerations of the Biden Administration and other US legislators as they respond to this week’s Huawei fanfare. From there: Last week’s unusually candid comments from the US Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emmanuel, and a report that Apple is looking to Chinese manufacturers for help with its Vision Pro ambitions. At the end: The Wall Street Journal’s report on Chinese nationals gate-crashing at U.S. military sites, whether China’s going to have its “Lehman moment,” a recommendation for Chinese media, and a word about Caixin.To subscribe to Sinocism and gain access to all podcast episodes as well as every issue of Sinocism from Bill Bishop, click here.To subscribe to Stratechery Plus and receive daily writing from Ben Thompson and daily podcasts from Andrew Sharp, click here.Note: I am testing a beta version of an automated transcription service. You can access it from the “transcript” tab here. In the beta version I can not yet edit the transcript and there may be some errors, including with the transcriptions of some Chinese words.Related readings:Li Qiang to G-20; MSS on US-China relations; Huawei's 5G phone; Italy and the BRI -- Sinocism Xi’s Unexplained G-20 Snub Erodes Image as Global Statesman -- BloombergChina’s spy agency blasts US for ‘engagement and containment’ approach -- Financial Times China to Its People: Spies Are Everywhere, Help Us Catch Them -- N.Y. Times New phone sparks worry China has found a way around U.S. tech limits -- Washington Post Huawei Teardown Reveals China Chip Breakthrough -- Bloomberg Huawei Watchers and the Land of Magical Thinking -- Digits to Dollars Far Ahead Mobile Phone Case, Huawei Mate 60 Pro -- TaoBaoRahm Emanuel Takes Aim at China’s Leadership -- WSJ Apple Hopes Chinese Suppliers Can Solve Vision Pro’s Display Challenges -- The Information Chinese Gate-Crashers at U.S. Bases Spark Espionage Concerns -- WSJ China’s Mortgage Relaxation Spurs Weekend Sales in Mega Cities -- Bloomberg The Big Short Trailer (2015) -- YouTube My Chinese Media Recipe --China Cuts Caixin From Approved Media, Curbing Influence -- Bloomberg I know some of you have followed me on Twitter for a long time. I am using that service much less now as it is increasingly not useful. I am spending more time on Substack Notes and am hopeful that China-related content will increase, as there are already many good China-focused Substacks, and since you subscribe to Sinocism you already have an account on the Substack platform. Here are some of my recent posts:To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a link login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the release of treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power facility and the response from PRC authorities, media and consumers. With a ban of an imports of all aquatic products from Japan and additional boycotts proliferating, what measures might be next? And with the IAEA and many governments largely in agreement that Japan’s plan is safe enough, what does this conflict say about Chinese leadership? From there: Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo meets with Party leaders in Beijing, reactions to the early returns from those discussions, and the well-timed launch of a new Huawei phone as the Commerce delegation makes its way through the PRC. At the end: A victory lap for TikTok, memories of high-speed rail, and a few minutes on the most recent measures to stimulate the economy.Related readings:Stock market support; Xi in Xinjiang; Real estate; US-PRC Commerce meeting; New Xi Thought book -- Sinocism Mortgage rate cuts; Raimondo meets Li Qiang; Huawei launches 5G phone early; Putin to China -- Sinocism Fukushima: Discharge from Japan nuclear plant safe, tests show -- BBC Chinese consumers punish Japan over Fukushima nuclear water release -- Washington Post Anti-Japanese Feeling Rises in China After Fukushima Water Discharge -- WSJ China says its ban on Japanese seafood is about safety. Is it really? -- CNN U.S. Does Not Want to ‘Decouple’ From China, Commerce Chief Says -- N.Y. TimesHuawei surprises with presales of its latest Mate handset, as it seeks to revive smartphone unit following US sanctions -- SCMP Huawei Building Secret Network for Chips, Trade Group Warns -- Bloomberg TikTok’s U.S. Future Still in Limbo as Commerce Secretary Visits China -- N.Y. Times U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo meets with China Premier Li Qiang -- CNBC Communist Party Priorities Complicate Plans to Revive China’s Economy -- WSJ To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a link login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comShow notes:On today's show Bill and Andrew begin with an unexplained absence for Xi Jinping in Johannesburg before turning to the multi-faceted problems facing Beijing policymakers as the PRC economy continues to sputter. Topics include: Why a giant stimulus package remains unlikely, whether Xi is the right leader to manage a restructuring of the world's second-largest economy, the "takeover or collapse" false binary, and what to make of the disappearing youth unemployment data. From there: The Ministry of State Security proudly identifies two PRC nationals who were allegedly working with the CIA, while the Biden Administration successfully executes a Camp David summit with the South Korea and Japan. At the end: Beijing scuttles Intel's Tower Semiconductor plans, ARM has myriad risks in China, the Wall Street Journal goes deep on the Village Basketball League, and James Harden's wine helps stimulate consumer spending.Related readings:Xi skips BRICS Business Forum; Fukushima waste water; Philippines resupplies grounded ship; Arm IPO; Raimondo trip -- SinocismXi to South Africa; Disappointing rate cut; Another CIA spy; Central Science and Technology Commission meets -- Sinocism Xi Skips Speech Defending China Economy at BRICS Business Forum -- BloombergChina’s Hidden Financial Dangers Erupt With Shadow Bank Crisis -- Bloomberg China’s 40-Year Boom Is Over. What Comes Next? -- Wall Street Journal Biden calls China a ‘ticking time bomb’ over economic problems -- NBC News China Suspends Report on Youth Unemployment, Which Was at a Record High -- N.Y. Times China’s ‘whack-a-mole’ economic playbook leads to confusion -- Financial Times How Will a Chinese Financial Crisis Impact the World? -- N.Y. TimesChina unveils second CIA espionage case within 15 days -- Global Times U.S., China Try to Draw Nations to Their Side as Divisions Harden -- Wall St. Journal China Scuttles a $5.4 Billion Microchip Deal Led by U.S. Giant Intel -- N.Y. Times Arm Needed 3,500 Words to Explain Its China Risks Before IPO -- Bloomberg In Depth: How SoftBank Wrestled Back Control of Arm China -- Caixin Arm set to regain control of renegade China unit after near 2-year battle -- Financial Times Even Jimmy Butler Had to Witness the Hottest Village Basketball League in China -- WSJNBA’s James Harden stunned as Chinese fans buy 10,000 bottles of his wine in 10 seconds – after a ‘great move’ criticising Daryl Morey -- SCMP J-Harden Wines -- J-Hardenwines.comTo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a link login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

Click here for instructions to add the podcast to your preferred player.This episode of Sharp China is free for everyone. If you are not a full subscriber and would like have access to all podcast episodes as well as every issue of Sinocism please click this button:Show notes:On today's Andrew and Bill begin with the heaviest rainfall in at least 140 years in Beijing this week. Topics include: Best wishes to all those affected by the floods, the astounding scale of these storms and resulting damage, citizens angry after local officials allegedly divert floods to protect Xiong’an, and the CPC playbook that will likely restrict information and hide the full extent of the tragedy. From there: Changes atop the PLA Rocket Force raise questions about espionage, the PLA nuclear program, and a years-long anti-corruption campaign under Xi Jinping that may not be over. From there: Follow-up to last week's Intel discussion, officials concerned about Chinese malware in America's military and civilian infrastructure, and a question about the American media and strategic alternatives to dialogue. At the end: The potential security pact between South Korea and Japan, the history and contemporary reality of the Beidaihe Meetings, and a reminder that the podcast will be off until the week of August 21st. We would love to hear feedback and suggestions/questions for future episodes in the Sinocism Chat, which is always open.Related readings:Awful flooding in and around Beijing; MSS on counter-espionage; More signals of real estate support; Wang Yi invited to visit US -- SinocismBeijing records heaviest rainfall in at least 140 years, causing severe flooding and 21 deaths -- APChina floods: Dramatic rescue in Hebei, Beijing neighborhoods submerged -- YouTube Collage: Floods in Beijing and Hebei -- Sixth Tone China Official’s Call to Save Xi’s City Angers Flood Victims -- Bloomberg New PLA Rocket force leadership; Consumption measures; Hopes for real estate policy support; US-China -- Sinocism China ousts top generals from nuclear Rocket Force -- Financial Times China names General Wang Houbin as new PLA Rocket Force chief after former commanders snared in corruption scandal -- South China Morning Post The Week of LK-99 Intrigue, China and Trailing Edges Chips, Intel Goes to Washington -- Sharp Tech U.S. Hunts Chinese Malware That Could Disrupt American Military Operations -- N.Y. Times China Doesn’t Want to Compete. It Wants to Win. -- The Atlantic US seeks to deepen Tokyo-Seoul security links to boost Pacific deterrence -- Financial Times China hints leaders started annual seaside vacation in flood-hit province -- Reuters At Mao’s Beach, China’s Leaders Still Make History as Lifeguards Hide From the Sun -- N.Y. Times To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a link login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a hastily called National People's Congress Standing Committee meeting, Wang Yi's return to his former role as Foreign Minister, and the removal of Qin Gang. Topics include: The messy procedure that led to this week's removal, possible explanations for Qin retaining his role as state councilor, and a possible timeline for an investigation and further announcements regarding Qin's future. Then: What Qin’s removal might mean within the Foreign Ministry, and the signals this situation is sending to the rest of the world. From there: The Politburo's meeting on the economy, explaining the psychology of the current real estate market, and another edict that may put PRC companies in conflict with Western business practices. At the end: More details on what America's semiconductor companies are telling the White House, pronouncing the word "Reuters," and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson announces that he'll be playing for China in this summer's FIBA World Cup.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the mystery surrounding foreign minister Qin Gang, who has not been seen in public since June 25th. As the foreign ministry stays silent, what might explain his retreat from public view, and how does this situation reflect on Xi Jinping and the party? Then: Henry Kissinger makes a surprise visit to Beijing, meets first with Defense Minister Li Shangfu, while John Kerry meets with Li Qiang and Wang Yi to talk common ground on climate issues. Will either of them get an audience with Xi? From there: U.S. chip firms lobby the executive branch, Chinese hackers access the emails of Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, and the optics get trickier for Biden's China policy. At the end: Weak economic data for Q2 and a window into who's actually driving the changes to China's relationships with the West.Related readings:National conference on ecological and environmental protection; Kerry and Henry Kissinger in Beijing; Qin Gang; Tang poems -- Sinocism Weak GDP data; National security "covert front 隐蔽战线"; US export controls; Covid excess deaths -- Sinocism Xi Jinping’s foreign minister has vanished from public view. His prolonged absence is driving intense speculation -- CNN Where Is China’s Foreign Minister? Beijing Won’t Clear Up the Mystery. -- N.Y. Times China Blocked Jack Ma’s Ant IPO After Investigation Revealed Likely Beneficiaries -- WSJAmbassador to the United States Qin Gang made first throw at an NBA game. -- YouTube Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang sends New Year greetings at NBA game -- YouTube Kissinger Meets China Defense Chief in Pursuing Closer Ties -- Bloomberg China’s envoy to US Xie Feng congratulates Henry Kissinger on 100th birthday -- SCMP Chip companies, top US officials discuss China policy -- Reuters Chinese Hackers Targeted Commerce Secretary and Other U.S. Officials -- N.Y. Times China reports second-quarter GDP miss, another record high in youth unemployment -- CNBC Looming U.S. Investment Restrictions on China Threaten Diplomatic Outreach -- N.Y. Times Canadian Politicians Who Criticize China Become Its Targets -- N.Y. Times 2012 - The “Just Sisters” Defense: China’s Sex-Scandal Surge | The New YorkerTo add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a link login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening.

This week’s episode is outside the paywall so available to everyone. On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen's trip to China, including thoughts on what might be the next evolution in the decoupling discourse, various social media controversies that were unrelated to the substance of her meetings, and the optics of cabinet officials traveling to Beijing without many of their Chinese counterparts reciprocating. Then: New PRC regulations for the export of gallium and germanium, and why last week's announcement may do more damage to the PRC than its rivals. From there: The DOJ indicts Gal Luft, Executive Director of the Institute for the Analysis of Global Security, while PRC Foreign Minister Qin Gang is reportedly ill and has not appeared publicly in more than two weeks. At the end: A listener seeks clarification on the domestic challenges facing China and the CPC, the State Department issues a new travel alert for mainland China, and Vietnamese authorities throw Barbie into the middle of a fight in the South China Sea.Related readings:3 Takeaways From Janet Yellen’s Trip to Beijing -- N.Y. Times Despite Yellen, U.S.-China Decoupling Has Momentum of Its Own -- WSJJanet Yellen awkwardly bows to CCP official during Beijing trip: 'Optics the Chinese love' -- Fox News Chinese women economists called 'traitors' online for meeting with Yellen -- Reuters Column: China flexes critical metals muscles with export curbs -- Reuters After China’s Rare Earth Embargo, a New Calculus -- N.Y. Times Co-Director of Think Tank Indicted for Acting as Unregistered Foreign Agent, Trafficking in Arms, Violating U.S. Sanctions Against Iran, and Making False Statements to Federal Agents -- DOJ ‘Health reasons’: Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang to miss Asean meeting -- SCMP Is High-speed Rail in China a "Gray Rhino"? --China Travel Advisory -- US Department of StateStudio defends Barbie movie after controversial map prompts Vietnam ban -- Guardian How Do ‘Barbie’ and Blackpink Figure in a Dangerous Territorial Dispute? -- N.Y. Times To add the Sharp China feed to your preferred podcast player:Click on the "listen on" button and you will see a dropdown with several options. Make sure you are logged into your account when you do it so you get the correct private RSS feed for subscribers. If you have not logged in for a while you can enter your email and then we will send you a link login link.The “email link” in the pulldown shown above will send you an email that also makes it easy to set it up in your preferred podcast app on your phone.If you use the Substack app it has a built- in podcast player.Thanks for listening. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with recent comments from President Biden that provided a surprise postscript to last week’s episode about renewed US-China engagement. Then: What the PRC might be thinking after a weekend of uncertainty in Russia, and using Putin’s struggles as an object lesson in why Xi has been so aggressive in his efforts to ref…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill talk through Secretary of State Anthony Blinken's trip to Beijing. First: The voices that convinced Biden to push for an improved relationship, what “back to Bali” actually entails, and reactions to the meetings between Blinken and PRC counterparts Qin Gang and Wang Yi. From there: The Biden Administration wants to close …

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the latest on Secretary Blinken's visit to Beijing before turning to a recap of several reports on PRC surveillance activities in Cuba and the evolving responses they've elicited from the Biden Administration. From there: What Xi might be signaling with his calls to prepare for “extreme” circumstances and scena…

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reports that Secretary of State Anthony Blinken may visit China sometime "in the coming weeks." Topics include: The State Department's preliminary trip this past weekend, benefits of continued communication, risks of communication as a reward in itself, and why it's important that Blinken visit before others in the cabinet. Then: The Shangri-La Dialogue and the PRC's controversial tactics in the South China Sea, and reactions to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan articulating the One China Policy and why the U.S. remains committed to it. From there: Desertification and China's attempts to curb it, a question about economic stimulus, and a listener's follow-up to last week's Microsoft conversation. At the end: Traveling to China, CPC membership, and a new drilling project that caught the world's attention.We love feedback and questions for future episodes. To email the show: [email protected]. You can also submit questions and feedback in the Sinocism chat.As per our custom, this first Sharp China episode of the month is outside the paywall and free for everyone. If you would like to have access to all the podcasts, and full Sinocism newsletter, please sign up here. Links:Blinken to China?; Xi on desertification; Li Qiang to Germany and France; Economic concerns; Disappearing "Glory to Hong Kong" -- SinocismTrade data; Waiting for stimulus; EU-China; Gaokao; SOE cadre's career-ending stroll -- SinocismUS Secretary of State Blinken Set to Travel to Beijing for Talks in Coming Weeks -- BloombergU.S. and China lock horns at Asia’s top security forum -- Washington PostStatement on Unprofessional Intercept of U.S. Aircraft over South China Sea -- USINDOPACOMPopularity of China’s ‘New Security Initiative’ is inevitable: Global Times editorial -- Global TimesFareed Zakaria on Twitter -- TwitterXi urges sustained efforts to curb desertification -- XinhuaChina, Mongolia aim to stop spread of shared desert that threatens mining and agriculture on both sides -- SMCPWhat Engagement With China Has Meant for Me -- Wall Street JournalChina Is Drilling a 10,000-Meter-Deep Hole Into the Earth -- Bloomberg In a geologic triumph, scientists drill a window into Earth’s mantle -- Washington PostThe most shocking photo of Beijing air pollution I’ve ever seen -- Washington Post This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the rejected pitch from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to meet with Defense Minister Li Shangfu this weekend. Topics include: The importance (and limits) of maintaining ongoing military backchannels, why the U.S. push for a meeting was more complicated in this case, and a postscript to last week's questions …

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the strong messaging that emerged from the G-7 summit in Hiroshima and the foreign ministry‘s response, including thoughts on the ongoing trend toward bifurcation and the cycle of name-calling that pervades the relationship between the US and China. Then: a listener asks about the Biden administration’s China p…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the meeting between Qin Gang and US Ambassador Nicholas Burns, the case for sending Anthony Blinken to Beijing before John Kerry, and a few questions as both sides pine for a reset to the status quo at last fall’s G20 Summit. Then: More information on the Capvision raids as PRC state media confirms…

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with news of more raids on Western corporate intelligence firms, investors losing access to Wind Information Co., a reported uptick in foreigners facing exit bans, and the continuing conflict between business-friendly rhetoric and what Xi's security services are doing on the ground. Then: Capital flight to Singapore, various theories to explain the timing of Xi's call to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and head-scratching jargon from the Chinese readout. At the end: The dynamics between India, Pakistan and China, the US strategy with India, and a question about decoupling yields discussion of Apple, Tesla and the burgeoning EV industry in China. We love feedback and questions for future episodes. To email the show: [email protected]. You can also submit questions and feedback in the Sinocism chat.As per our custom, this first Sharp China episode of the month is outside the paywall and free for everyone.Links:China Locks Information on the Country Inside a Black Box -- Wall St. JournalChina’s ‘men in black’ step up scrutiny of foreign corporate sleuths -- FTU.S. Chamber Statement on Concerns Over PRC Investment Climate -- U.S. Chamber of CommerceChina's exit bans multiply as political control tightens under Xi -- ReutersNew Report: Trapped - China’s Expanding Use of Exit Bans -- Safeguard DefendersXi calls Zelensky -- SinocismXi-Zelensky call; Bain's Shanghai troubles; Counter-espionage law; Li Ganjie heads Organization Department; Employment measures -- SinocismSpeak Plainly, Mr. Chairman -- China Media ProjectAmerica’s Bad Bet on India -- Foreign AffairsSinocism Podcast: Tania Branigan on her book Red Memory: The Afterlives of China's Cultural Revolution -- SinocismAn excerpt from Tania Branigan's Red Memory: The Afterlives of China's Cultural Revolution -- Sinocism This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill reunite for their first podcast in nearly a month, beginning with takeaways from Brazilian President Lula da Silva's visit to Beijing, the rumored call from Xi to Zelensky that still hasn't happened, and reactions to French President Emmanuel Macron's comments on Europe and Taiwan. From there: The raid on US due diligence…

On today’s show guest host Ben Thompson (Stratechery) and Bill begin with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy and discuss China's reaction and the mood on the ground in Taiwan as it approaches a Presidential Election. Later: a discussion on Warren Buffett's comments about TSMC and China's proposed rules for AI.As per our custom, this first episode of the month is outside the paywall and free for everyone.Taiwan's president warns 'democracy is under threat' in joint remarks with McCarthy — CNNEuropean leaders in Beijing; Tsai in California; Xinhua attacks US financial hegemony; Saudi-Iran Beijing meeting — SinocismChina to inspect ships in Taiwan Strait, Taiwan says won't cooperate — ReutersPLA exercises around Taiwan; Macron and the PRC; Did Tedros "slander China"?; AI Bubble — SinocismChina military ‘ready to fight’ after drills near Taiwan — Associated PressXi inspects Guangdong; Lula to China; Draft AI rules; Macron; Sandstorms; Substack Notes open to all — Sinocism2024 election a choice between 'democracy and autocracy': DPP nominee Lai — Focus TaiwanChina slaps security reviews on AI products as Alibaba unveils ChatGPT challenger — Financial TimesBuffett says geopolitics a factor in Berkshire sale of TSMC stake — Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin withXi Jinping’s visit to Moscow and a week of news about deepening ties between China and Russia. Topics include: The recent inversion of the Russia-China relationship, concerns about what a Xi-Putin union means for the rest of the world, and more signs that a much broader project is underway as Xi seek to reshape …

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the news that Saudi Arabia and Iran have reestablished diplomatic relations in a deal that was mediated by China, and announced in Beijing last week. Then: A report that Xi could visit Russia as early as next week, a second report that he will be making his first call to Zelenskyy since the Russian invasion beg…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the first few days of the Two Sessions and what to make of the messages sent by Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Then: Reactions to a few recent columns expressing concern at the bipartisan consensus in DC, a new plan for Chinese data, and the draft budget provides more signs that self-sufficiency is a…

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the PRC’s 12-point plan for a peaceful settlement of the Russian war in Ukraine, including why feigning neutrality fell flat with the international community, continued warnings from U.S. officials regarding weapons assistance, and a visit to Beijing from Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko. From there: the Central Party Committee and State Council release new guidelines for legal education, examining the Chinese legal system under Xi, and thoughts on the implications of a Congressional investigation into the origins of Covid-19. At the end: Updates on Bao Fan, the crackdown on corruption in the financial sector, PRC currency ambitions, the shift to conducting life via mobile apps, and a word about gray hair.We love feedback and questions for future episodes. To email the show: [email protected]. You can also submit questions and feedback in the Sinocism chat:PRC-Ukraine; Xi and propaganda into the Two Meetings; Legal education guideline; Li Keqiang farewell tour -- SinocismPRC-Russia-Ukraine; US-PRC; Financial sector personnel and corruption -- SinocismChina’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis -- MoFAPresident Xi Jinping Had a Virtual Meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin -- MoFAAs China Calls for Peace, U.S. Believes Beijing Is Considering Artillery and Drone Deliveries to Moscow -- Wall St. JournalPutin ally Lukashenko meets Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing -- CNNChina releases key guideline on legal education, stresses firm stand to oppose Western erroneous views -- Global TimesXi’s Law-and-Order Strategy -- Foreign AffairsLab Leak Most Likely Origin of Covid-19 Pandemic, Energy Department Now Says -- Wall St. JournalThe State of Dynamic Zero-COVID and Reactions to That ProPublica Report -- Sharp China:Australia rides out Chinese sanctions as exports boom -- Financial TimesHouse committee on China starts two-year drive to ‘decouple’ -- Washington PostStar Banker in China Who Vanished Is Said to Be Aiding Government Inquiry -- New York TimesMissing Banker Bao Fan Is Cooperating in China Probe, His Firm Says -- BloombergWith Streaks of Gray Hair, Xi Jinping of China Breaks With Tradition -- N.Y. TimesThe Knockout EP01: Gao Qiqiang is Sent to the Police for Fighting | 狂飙 | iQIYI -- YouTube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reaction to the meeting between Wang Yi and Anthony Blinken in Munich last weekend, including competing readouts that signal continued tension between the U.S. and China, other statements weekend that underscore Chinese frustrations, and what to look for from both sides in the months to come. Then: Joe Biden is…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Bill and Andrew begin with the continuing reactions to the balloon controversy, including rumors of a Blinken-Wang Yi meeting in Munich, last weekend’s new foreign object sightings, China’s story of a flying object outside Qingdao, and reports that U.S. officials believe that the initial balloon did, in fact, fly off course. Then: Survey…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with a few reactions to Joe Biden’s comments about China in Tuesday’s State of the Union address. From there: several days of outsized reaction around Washington, mounting calls for even stronger American responses to China’s ambitions, and stress-testing the theory that last week’s balloon mess was initiated by rog…

This special, short episode is outside the paywall. On today's show Andrew and Bill reconvene for an emergency episode to share their reactions to the news that the Pentagon is tracking a Chinese reconnaissance balloon across the U.S., the statements coming from both the Pentagon and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the news that Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has canceled his trip to Beijing.Some links:US readout of Blinken’s call with Wang Yi:Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Director of the CCP Central Foreign Affairs Office Wang Yi to convey that he will not be traveling to the People’s Republic of China at this time in light of the current presence of a high-altitude PRC surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace. The Secretary relayed that he had planned to visit Beijing to follow up on the agenda agreed to by President Biden and President Xi in November in Bali. The Secretary noted the PRC’s statement of regret but conveyed that this is an irresponsible act and a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law that undermined the purpose of the trip. The Secretary explained that in light of this ongoing issue, it would not be appropriate to visit Beijing at this time. He underscored that the United States is committed to diplomatic engagement and maintaining open lines of communication, and that he would be prepared to visit Beijing as soon as conditions allow.Bloomberg with some details on the balloon surveillance program - High-Flying Balloon Seen as Part of Broader Chinese Spy Program:The high-altitude balloon now floating at 60,000 feet over the continental US is part of a broader Chinese spying program that’s seen many such devices sent over the nation, including some during the Trump administration, according to US officials…People familiar with the matter believe the balloon is maneuverable —because they’ve detected it changing course — and anticipate it will likely remain in US airspace for several more days. Nonetheless, they’ve decided not to try to shoot it down for now, arguing that the risk to the public of falling debris is too high as its payload is the size of several buses.They flatly dismiss China’s claim that it’s a weather-monitoring vehicle given its size, previous Chinese espionage activity in the same vein, and private acknowledgment from Chinese officials of its true nature. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a variety of thoughts in advance of next week's visit to Beijing from Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Topics include: Why cooperation has proven difficult for both sides, hopes that the U.S. can avoid a repeat of Yang Jiechi in Anchorage, an editorial in the People's Daily, and extended thoughts on domestic political concerns underlying the intractable Taiwan dispute. From there: Reactions to a memo from U.S. General Mike Minihan instructing members of the Air Force to prepare for armed conflict with China, while the Russian Foreign Ministry announces that Xi Jinping will be visiting Moscow (and the Chinese demur when asked for confirmation). At the end: No updates on foreign Visa holders, a question about the dwindling numbers of Westerners studying Chinese, a clarification regarding Hua Chunying, and a call to listeners for UFO assistance.We have decided to put the first episode of each outside the paywall, so this episode is free for everyone.To email the show: [email protected] officially peaked; Blinken's PRC visit; War talk; Tech controls; Hu Xinyu — SinocismXi to visit Russia this year?; More on possible Huawei measures; State capitalism; 狂飙 “The Knockout” — SinocismHow arming Ukraine is stretching the US defence industry — Financial Times2021-US, China spar in first face-to-face meeting under Biden — APHow it happened: Transcript of the US-China opening remarks in Alaska — Nikkei AsiaChina Urges Common Ground Ahead of Visit by Top US Diplomat -- BloombergAir Force general predicts war with China in 2025, tells officers to prep by firing 'a clip' at a target, and 'aim for the head' — NBC NewsXi Jinping’s visit to Russia to be main event in bilateral agenda for 2023 — TassChina Dismisses US Claims of Support for Russia as ‘Paranoia’ — BloombergWhy Are Fewer American Students Going to China? — Asia SocietyChinese foreign ministry spokesperson sparks ridicule online with Taiwan restaurant tweet — Hong Kong Free PressChina Publishes, Then Deletes Report of Potential Alien Signals — Gizmodo This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin with news of a jinx on last week's show and recommendations for new China watchers. Topics include Bill's lessons from living in China, Andrew's experience as a newcomer, and ten China watching commandments from the legendary editor of China News Analysis, László Ladány. From there: Checking in with the Belt and Roa…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with thoughts on the change in tone from government officials addressing private business, changes it might signify in the short term, and concerns it may not assuage in the long term. From there: the news of a deepened strategic alliance between the US and Japan, why Beijing is outraged, and best case and worst cas…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit sinocism.comOn today's show Andrew and Bill begin by talking through the latest news on the reopening, including reciprocal travel restrictions imposed on South Korea and Japan, Paxlovid price disputes, and continued uncertainty about case counts. From there: Xie Feng as the likely replacement for Qin Gang in D.C., Zhao Lijan's demotion, the possible demise of wolf…

On today's show Andrew and Bill reunite after the holiday break and begin with the continued reopening process around China. Topics include: the tragedy of the past several weeks, calls for more transparency from the CCP, dubious testing requirements for Chinese travelers, the government reportedly pressing pause on some of its chip investments, and why it may take a few months before reopening yields any meaningful shift in economic data. Then: Xi's New Year's address and reactions to a spate of articles related to his standing in China. At the end: Formula 1 may be returning to China, Qin Gang goes from the Washington Wizards to the Central Committee, and TikTok's future is murkier than ever after some news that was not-quite-buried before the Christmas holiday.To email the show: [email protected]; Transparency; Stimulating real estate demand; US-China — SinocismCovid reopening and growing concerns about lack of transparency; Marcos meets Xi; Propaganda work — SinocismReopening; Testing PRC travelers; Wang Qishan in Brazil; More weak economic data; 辱华 — SinocismChina Condemns Its People to Relive the Nightmare of 2020 — BloombergChina threatens ‘countermeasures’ over other countries’ Covid travel restrictions — The GuardianBattered by Covid, China Hits Pause on Giant Chip Spending Aimed at Rivaling US — BloombergChina can see a ‘light of hope’ in Covid battle, says Xi Jinping in New Year’s message — SCMPXi Jinping’s credibility ‘badly wounded’ as China’s Covid death toll mounts — Financial TimesUpdate: 2023 Chinese Grand Prix return inches closer — RacingNews365New Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang: What I learned in America — Washington PostWhy China’s new foreign minister could be a problem for Biden — PoliticoQin Gang 秦刚 on Twitter — @AmbQinGangEXCLUSIVE: TikTok Spied On Forbes Journalists — ForbesBiden signs TikTok ban for government devices, setting up a chaotic 2023 for the app — NBCLeaked Audio From 80 Internal TikTok Meetings Shows That US User Data Has Been Repeatedly Accessed From China — Buzzfeed NewsChina's Bayi Rockets vs NBA champions Washington Bullets in 1979 — YouTube This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sinocism.com/subscribe