US-China Tensions Set to Escalate: Can Korea Break Free from Beijing’s Grip
US-China Trade War 2.0: A Growing Concern for Global Economy and Security
Geopolitical scholars Michael Beckley and Robin Niblett discuss the escalating US-China trade war and its implications for the global economy and security.
At the World Information Forum’s ‘US-China Trade War 2.0’ session hosted by Maeil Business Newspaper on the 11th, Chatham House Distinguished Fellow Robin Niblett (right), geopolitics scholar, spoke to Professor Michael Beckley of Tufts University (center) and Discuss the US-China economy. Reporter Lee Choong-woo
US-China Relations: A Growing Concern
The relationship between the United States and China, two major countries that share the world economy and security, is becoming increasingly confrontational. The question remains whether there is room for improvement in this relationship.
Expert Insights
Michael Beckley, a professor at Tufts University and an expert in the supply chain field, and Robin Niblett, Chatham House Distinguished Research Fellow, shared their insights on the US-China trade war and its implications for the global economy and security.
China’s Military Power and Economic Trends
Professor Beckley noted that China’s military power surpasses that of Nazi Germany, and its investment in military power will increase as the crisis with Taiwan escalates. He also pointed out that China’s economic growth is slowing down, which will affect Korea’s exports to China.
US-China Conflict: A Structural Problem
Distinguished Research Fellow Niblett stated that the rivalry between the US and China is based on deep ideological differences, which is a structural problem. He predicted that competition and blocking will intensify in the short term.
Long-term Perspectives
However, from a long-term perspective, the conflict between the US and China is expected to gradually lose strength. China’s demographic changes and weak leadership will affect its ability to face the US.
Korea’s Strategy
Professor Beckley emphasized that Korea needs to prepare a medium- to long-term strategy, considering its close relations with the US and China in terms of security and economy. He suggested that Korea’s economic benefits from trading with the US will increase relatively in the long term.
De-risking Strategy
Distinguished Research Fellow Niblett advised Korea to aim for de-risking, which reduces risks rather than decoupling, as much as possible. This strategy will help Korea navigate the complex geopolitical situation and reduce its dependence on China.