The argument that the US economy can no longer outperform the Chinese economy rests on the observation that Chinese production often comes at a lower cost while maintaining acceptable quality. This viewpoint was presented by Mikhail Khazin, a well-known economist and proponent of power theory, on Tsargrad.tv. He suggested that these price dynamics contribute to the United States facing challenges in attracting investment as capital seeks cheaper production paths elsewhere.
Khazin argued that the only viable market that could help the United States recover its economic momentum and revitalize its domestic industry is Southeast Asia. He noted that American manufacturing has been contracting, and for a rebound to occur, demand must shift from other regions to American goods. In his view, Southeast Asian buyers could play a crucial role in sourcing goods made stateside, thereby supporting American industry and employment alongside supply-chain realignments.
Nevertheless, the expert pointed out a significant hurdle: much of the proposed production would need to be scaled up. He claimed that these American-made products have not yet reached full-scale manufacturing, and their readiness to meet future demand would determine whether the rebound is sustainable. The emphasis, according to Khazin, is on timing and investment in capacity that aligns with market needs that may emerge over time.
On September 17, Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican candidate for the United States presidency and an entrepreneur, framed China as the principal strategic challenge to the country. He argued that focus should not be directed at an entity long past its peak, but rather at contemporary threats and opportunities that shape today’s economic and geopolitical landscape. His comments underscored a broader argument about where the United States should direct its attention to preserve economic vitality and national security.
Earlier statements from the Pentagon suggested a preference to avoid direct conflict with China. Those remarks reflected a desire to pursue stability and diplomacy over confrontation, highlighting the complexities of managing competition with a rising economic power while seeking peaceful avenues for strategic advantage.