Strategic Competition
Why Strategic Competition?
Kennedy meeting Yang Jiechi, Foreign Minister of China, in Beijing
Strategic Framing
- China’s assertive rise is reshaping the global order, challenging the rules-based system that has long underpinned peace and prosperity.
- From economic coercion to military expansion, China’s actions are increasingly zero-sum and revisionist, prompting a necessary shift in U.S. strategy.
- Strategic competition is not a choice—it is a response. The U.S. must secure its interests and values through strength, resilience, and alliances.
- Competition can coexist with cooperation, but it requires clarity about the risks and the resolve to deter aggression.
China’s Actions That Demand a Response
Military Coercion
- South China Sea militarization
- Taiwan grey zone actions
- Rapid buildup of military and nuclear weapons
- Expansion of overseas military bases (e.g., Djibouti)
Economic Distortions & Coercion
- Intellectual property theft
- Government subsidies spurring overcapacity to dominate global markets
- Retaliatory tariffs and sanctions (e.g., Australia, Lithuania)
- Belt and Road investments to dominate telecommunications, critial minerals and ports
- LOGINK and surveillance of global trade
Technology and Espionage
- Cyberattacks (e.g., Microsoft Exchange hack)
- Forced tech transfers
- TikTok, Huawei, and digital surveillance exports
- Made in China 2025 effort to dominate technologies of tomorrow
Supporting Russia & Other Authoritarian Powers
- Economic support of Russia enabling Ukraine war effort
- Collaboration with Iran, North Korea, Venezuela and others
Political Influence, Global Norm-Shaping
- UN agency influence operations to shape favorable norms
- Isolating Taiwan diplomatically
- Targeting diaspora voices abroad
The Bipartisan Pivot to Competition
- 2017 National Security Strategy labeling China a “strategic competitor”
- Formation of the U.S. House Select Committee on China
- Creation of the CHIPS Act, export controls, and military modernization
Competing Without Closing the Door to Cooperation
- Engagement with China is still valuable—especially on climate, health, and crisis prevention
- Strategic competition must be pursued responsibly and credibly
Related Commentary & Thought Leadership
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