In January 2023, China continued to expand its influence on the global stage, drawing increased attention from the U.S. government. Following the completion of a successful lunar mission, a major economic forum, and a series of diplomatic maneuvers, China’s trajectory as a global superpower seemed unstoppable.
American policymakers have long been concerned about China’s growing economic power and its implications for global trade. In January, Beijing’s “Made in China 2025” initiative, designed to make China the world leader in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology, drew the attention of U.S. policymakers. The initiative raised concerns about intellectual property rights and technology competition, as American companies faced the prospect of increased competition from Chinese firms that were rapidly advancing in critical tech industries.
Furthermore, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aims to expand its global infrastructure footprint, has led to increasing economic ties between China and developing nations. This expansion of China’s global influence has the potential to reshape global trade patterns and competition in ways that may threaten U.S. economic interests.
The Biden administration has been working to counteract China’s growing influence by strengthening alliances with other global powers, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. In January 2023, President Joe Biden signed a series of agreements with regional allies, enhancing military and economic cooperation in response to China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea and beyond.
For the United States, the rising influence of China represents both an economic opportunity and a challenge. The U.S. must balance cooperation with competition as it seeks to maintain its position as the world’s preeminent economic and geopolitical power.
