Comparing Trump and Harris on China Policies
The forthcoming president will likely preside over a significant period in the nation's relations with communist China, a rival with the intent and ability to disrupt the current U.S.-led world order. According to a Pew Research Center report released in July, eight out of ten Americans view China unfavorably. Moreover, there is a consensus in Washington that the Chinese regime poses a threat as it narrows the power gap with the United States in military, diplomatic, and technological domains.
Trump's Approach to China
The current approach to China was initiated by former President Donald Trump. He recognized China as a "strategic competitor" and introduced a new approach to U.S.–China relations. This included imposing broad tariffs on Chinese goods, controlling Chinese access to American semiconductor technology, and shifting the national security strategy from the Middle East to China and Russia.
Harris's Stance on China
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, has shown no signs of deviating from the Biden administration’s China policies. Both candidates agree on controlling strategic goods and technologies, investing in innovation, re-shoring supply chains, and combating Beijing’s unfair trade practices. Harris has repeatedly stated the goal is to ensure “America, not China, wins the competition for the 21st century.”
Trade Policies
Last month, the Biden administration finalized its tariffs, retaining all Trump-era rates and significantly increasing them on selected critical technology and minerals. On the other hand, the Trump-centered Republican platform pledges to revoke China's permanent normal trade relations status, phase out imports of essential goods, and prevent China from purchasing American real estate and industries. Trump has suggested reigniting the trade war, potentially imposing more than 60 percent tariffs on Chinese goods.
Security Policies
Despite a growing consensus in Washington on the need to counter the Chinese regime’s aggressive actions, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, differences remain on how to avoid military conflicts. Trump emphasizes maintaining peace by showing military strength, focusing on modernizing nuclear weapons and halting the trend of cuts to the U.S. nuclear stockpile.
In contrast, Harris supported cutting the defense budget and redirecting funding to communities in need. However, she also stated that the United States's air and space supremacy is essential to ensuring global peace and security.
Bottom Line
The policies and approaches of both Trump and Harris towards China are crucial in shaping the future of U.S.-China relations. While they share some common ground, their personal differences and potential appointees to key positions could result in distinct strategies. What are your thoughts on their respective policies and approaches? Share this article with your friends and discuss it further. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6 pm.
