On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with recent meetings between US officials and PRC counterparts in Munich and Vienna, including complaints from both Director of the CCP Central Foreign Affairs Commission and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong that the U.S. has harassed PRC students trying to enter the U.S., as well as a note about China's designation as a "major drug source country." From there: The MSS takes to WeChat to criticize the CIA, while the FBI Director warns the Munich Security Forum that Chinese malware capabilities have reached an unprecedented scale. From there: A Financial Times op-ed argues that America has done a poor job countering PRC information warfare, and Congressional staffers debate a blacklist policy for lobbying firms doing business with select PRC entities. At the end: Congressman Mike Gallagher announces he won't seek reelection, while Lionel Messi explains himself (again).

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with another week of volatility in and around the PRC markets, including a crash on Monday, stabilization as the week unfolded, reports of a meeting between Xi and regulators, and changes at the CSRC. Then: For the first time in 17 years Mexico has supplanted China as the biggest U.S. trade partner, which raises questions about the future of the bilateral trade relationship and volume of PRC goods that have been diverted through countries like Mexico and Vietnam. At the end: The future of green energy manufacturing in the EU and China, a look at the sad and absurd week of controversy surrounding Lionel Messi, and a Happy Lunar New Year to all Sharp China listeners.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the revival of Article 23 and thoughts on the landscape in Hong Kong as its laws continue to converge with the mainland. Then: A step back for the stock markets after last week’s stabilization efforts, another politburo meeting comes and goes without any announcement of a plenum, and a question about buying real estate in China. At the end: A listener has a question about President Trump and Taiwan, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is grilled by Senator Tom Cotton, Secretary Raimondo has concerns about EV data collection, and it’s the one-year anniversary of the spy balloon.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with an expanding list of sensitive sites around China at which Tesla vehicles have been deemed a security risk. With the PRC electric vehicle industry expanding every year, what does the future look like for Elon Musk and Tesla in China? And as PRC auto manufacturing outpaces domestic demand, how might the rest of the world react as Chinese cars flood foreign markets? Then: A few new messages and policies emerge as Beijing’s response to weak investor sentiment begins to crystallize and the markets appear to stabilize. At the end: More questions about the PRC response to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, a meeting this weekend between Jake Sullivan and Wang Yi, and the latest adventures on WeChat from the Ministry of State Security.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with last weekend’s election in Taiwan, where William Lai and the DPP retained their hold on the presidency but lost a majority in legislature. Topics include: The reactions from China and around the world, continued questions about a timeline for reunification, Hong Kong as a cautionary tale for the Taiwanese, Nauru and the United Nations, and sparring between the Foreign Ministry and the Philippines. From there: Li Qiang delivers good news to Davos, investors in China and Hong Kong remain wary, and one year after China announced to the world it was open for business, several factors have left confidence among the foreign investment community at an all-time low. At the end: The world waits for to China to take action in the Red Sea, a question about cannabis crackdowns in Hong Kong, and a documentary heralds a new crackdown on soccer corruption.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a note about this weekend’s elections in Taiwan before turning back to the upheaval in the PLA. Topics include: Bloomberg's reporting on a US intelligence assessment, realism on PRC capabilities, the history of PLA corruption, and recent reporting about China's nuclear ambitions. From there: Reactions to the foreign affairs work conference in late December, why Beijing sees opportunities around the world, and thoughts on Liu Jianchao's visit to the US and his future as a possible successor to Qin Gang. At the end: Xi reconnects with old friends in Iowa, balloon updates will continue forever, a listener provides more context on a December Fox News report, and a Christmas present offers a path forward for the National Zoo.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill talk through questions and key areas to watch during the year to come in China. First: A look at the economy a year after the end of dynamic zero covid, including a Bloomberg report on real estate market and household wealth, MSS warnings about discourse traps, and a corruption crackdown that's likely to continue. Then: Foreign policy questions include ongoing tensions with the Philippines and Taiwan, an ODNI report on election interference in the US, and a tactical stabilization with the Americans that may be tested as early as January. At the end: Andrew runs through various memories from the past year, including 72 hours of unmanned airship sightings, a Barbie controversy, the God of Money menu, Ambassador Rahm Emanuel, Gina Raimondo’s trip to Beijing, Gavin Newsom, and an emailer’s submission for a new Sharp China logo.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with thoughts on the readout from the Central Economic Work Conference, including the emphasis on "progress" alongside stability, high-quality development and high-level security, PRC attempts at brand management, and where infrastructure investment might be going. From there: More water cannons, more controversy, and the same concerns as problems persist between the Chinese Coast Guard and the Philippines in the South China Sea. At the end: Frustrations with the hawk-dove spectrum, Henry Kissinger's complicated legacy, and questions about flights to China, academic engagement, and good Chinese TV dramas.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin by parsing the claims contained in a controversial piece from Politico, including thoughts on the spectrum of rumors surrounding this year’s disappearing cabinet members, the smaller-than-ever circle of true insiders in Xi’s China, and certain details of present-day CPC politics and that are beyond dispute. From there: Several stories in and around the finance sector, where there have been more warnings against relaying bad news, there is still no third plenum announcement, the Central Financial Work Commission has provided new guidance, and Moody’s is taking precautions for its local employees. At the end: Checking in with Secretary Gina Raimondo, Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, the House of Representatives, and Huawei's role in the PRC chip constellation.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a new generation of foreign influencers said to be assisting in Xi's campaign to “tell China's story well” and an update on Wolf Warrior diplomacy as 2023 draws to a close. Then: Q&A with the Sinocism chat, including a request for tangible signs of fentanyl progress, regional governments vying for debt relief, Li Qiang at the Central Financial Commission, and a look at why and how PRC citizens are moving investments outside China. At the end: One listener's theory on why Xi may retain power for years to come, the outbreaks straining hospitals around China, and a renowned Chef's egg fried rice ignites a controversy.

On today's show Andrew and Bill look back at a week of news from San Francisco. Topics include: A "tactical stabilization" in the US-China relationship, world leaders comparing cars, concessions from the US and a PRC commitment on fentanyl, whether China would prefer Biden or Trump in 2024, and what else was achieved on both sides of the Biden-Xi meeting last week. From there: Xi’s message to the business community (and why some foreign investors were hoping for more), President Biden doubles down on his “dictator” assessment, and possible implications for the next few months after last week’s alliance between minority parties in Taiwan did not even make it through the weekend. At the end: a question about translators, Xi beams when presented with a Warriors jersey, and promising news for panda lovers in the United States.

After one year of Sharp Tech and Sharp China, a summit with Ben Thompson, Bill Bishop and Andrew Sharp to discuss podcasting, the chip ban, the US-China relationship and beyond.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with Xi Jinping’s trip to San Francisco and a likely meeting with President Biden next week. Topics include: A planned dinner with business leaders, why the PRC hasn’t yet confirmed the trip, modest goals for both sides, more ambitious concessions China and the US may seek. From there: Janet Yellen’s column in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal offers one calculation for foreign capital flight, and why changes at the as yet unscheduled Third Plenum may not allay investor anxiety. At the end: The detention of Zhang Hongli, a.k.a. Lee Zhang, in what appears to be another corruption investigation, warming relations between the PRC and Australia, and the pandas in Washington D.C. prepare for a long flight.

On today’s show Bill and Andrew begin with the passing of Li Keqiang, the grief that swept China over the weekend, and the various party protocols that were set in motion to control the mourning process this week. From there: Another Politburo meeting comes and goes with no news about a third plenum to devise new economic policy, the modest progress and persistent structural challenges animating the US-China relationship in 2023, and the MSS turns its eyes to meteorology. At the end: Extended thoughts on Gavin Newsom’s trip to China, a look at the strategic advantages China brings to the global market for a select group of commodities, the Foreign Ministry complains about Rahm Emanuel’s approach to diplomacy, and Yao Ming makes an appearance for the NBA’s opening week.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the latest confrontation between the PRC and the Philippines in the South China Sea, clarity as to PRC maritime tactics that look increasingly like an undeclared blockade, and questions about when and how the US might get involved. From there: Qin Gang and Li Shangfu are formally removed from the State Council, the MSS discloses details of another citizen accused of spying for the US, and leaders of the Five Eyes go to Silicon Valley and 60 Minutes. At the end: Heightened scrutiny of Foxconn in advance of January’s presidential election in Taiwan, Tim Cook goes to China, Jon Stewart leaves Apple, and the New Yorker’s Evan Osnos examines the sentiments in China after Xi Jinping's first decade in power.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the long-awaited updates to the Biden Administration’s export controls on chips. Topics include: Bad news for Nvidia and good news for PRC semi companies, initial responses from PRC leadership, and follow-up thoughts on the strategic calculus of the U.S. From there: Impromptu TikTok discussion in light of the export controls underscoring the importance of strategic considerations. Then: Xi welcomes Vladimir Putin back to Beijing, the state of the Russia-China partnership, and why Xi and Putin may see opportunity as war erupts in the Middle East. At the end: Brief thoughts on the Belt and Road Initiative, and Bill shares an abridged version of the Sinocism origin story to celebrate the site's six-year anniversary as a paid newsletter.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a meeting between Xi Jinping and a congressional delegation led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the latest indication that Xi and the PRC are working toward a trip to APEC in November and a likely meeting with President Biden. From there: Reports of updates to the semiconductor export controls in advance of a Xi visit, Senator Schumer asks Xi and Wang Yi for a swift condemnation of Hamas terror attacks, and whether PRC messaging in the Middle East will deviate from the playbook we saw Russia and Ukraine. Then: The introduction of Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, an analyst's look at the evolution of semiconductor export controls, and why Nvidia reportedly sought to have the aforementioned analyst "sidelined" as policymakers continue to calibrate new restrictions for U.S. exports. At the end: Tim Cook's takes on manufacturing expertise in China, a competing theory as to how that expertise was honed, and Kyrie Irving becomes a global ambassador for ANTA apparel.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with a correction to last week’s episode and the latest bizarre twist in the Qin Gang saga. Then: A closer look at the recent clashes between the PLA and the Philippines in the South China Sea, this week’s news at the Scarborough Shoal, the Filipino media strategy under President Marcos, and possible PRC responses as international attention intensifies. From there: Xi welcomes Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to Hangzhou, Syria praises the “counter-terrorism” efforts in Xinjiang, and new information indicates that Uyghur history scholar Rahile Dawut has been sentenced to life in prison. At the end: The rumors of Rahm’s Twitter demise were greatly exaggerated, exploring “Back to Bali” as momentum builds for increased US-China engagement, and the Panda farewell at the National Zoo yields a great Foreign Policy article, memories of a film set in 1994, and uncertainty about the future of Panda Diplomacy in the United States.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with this week's reporting on Foreign Minister Qin Gang. As sources in Beijing confirm allegations of an affair and a lovechild, plenty of questions remain. How could those details have gone undetected before Xi promoted Qin in January? Were Qin or his mistress compromised by a foreign government? And why is Party leadership apparently so comfortable disclosing Qin's affair to the international community? From there: The headline of the week from the UK, the tweet of the week from the US Ambassador to Japan, and more on Defense Minister Li Shangfu and the PLA rumors. Then: Two more bearish indicators for the economy, while wind turbine and EV controversies percolate in the EU and portend further complications to come. At the end: more details released on America's favorite unmanned civilian airship, Huawei chooses an interesting date for its product launch next week, export control speculation continues in DC, and Apple's new iPhone sells out in China.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with Xi Jinping's visit to Heilongjiang during the G-20 Summit, President Biden's comments on containment and the likelihood of a Taiwan invasion, and why news that Wang Yi will skip the UN General Assembly next week does not necessarily tell us anything about Xi's plans for APEC in November. From there: Rahm Emanuel highlights a disinformation campaign centered on the Maui Wildfires and the disappearance of Defense Minister Li Shangfu, rumors continue to swirl about investigations of party leadership and members of the PLA, and there are reasons to be skeptical of a report that Xi was reprimanded by party elders at Beidaihe. At the end: Espionage arrests in the UK and an interference inquiry in Canada, Apple tries to avoid getting caught in the middle of the US-China rivalry, big decisions loom at the BIS, and a word about pronunciation.

On today’s show Andrew & Bill begin with the news that Xi Jinping will skip this weekend’s G-20 summit in India, a Ministry of State Security warning that the U.S. has work to do before any Biden-Xi summit later this year, and the ongoing questions surrounding the recent MSS foray into social media and US-China directives. Then: The international media learns more about Huawei’s Mate 60 Pro, what it could mean if reports are true that SMIC assisted Huawei in making 7nm chips, and the various considerations of the Biden Administration and other US legislators as they respond to this week’s Huawei fanfare. From there: Last week’s unusually candid comments from the US Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emmanuel, and a report that Apple is looking to Chinese manufacturers for help with its Vision Pro ambitions. At the end: The Wall Street Journal’s report on Chinese nationals gate-crashing at U.S. military sites, whether China’s going to have its “Lehman moment,” a recommendation for Chinese media & a word about Caixin.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the release of treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power facility and the response from PRC authorities, media and consumers. With a ban of an imports of all aquatic products from Japan and additional boycotts proliferating, what measures might be next? And with the IAEA and many governments largely in agreement that Japan’s plan is safe enough, what does this conflict say about Chinese leadership? From there: Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo meets with Party leaders in Beijing, reactions to the early returns from those discussions, and the well-timed launch of a new Huawei phone as the Commerce delegation makes its way through the PRC. At the end: A victory lap for TikTok, memories of high-speed rail, and a few minutes on the most recent measures to stimulate the economy.

On today's show Bill and Andrew begin with an unexplained absence for Xi Jinping in Johannesburg before turning to the multi-faceted problems facing Beijing policymakers as the PRC economy continues to sputter. Topics include: Why a giant stimulus package remains unlikely, whether Xi is the right leader to manage a restructuring of the world's second-largest economy, the "takeover or collapse" false binary, and what to make of the disappearing youth unemployment data. From there: The Ministry of State Security proudly identifies two PRC nationals who were allegedly working with the CIA, while the Biden Administration successfully executes a Camp David summit with the South Korea and Japan. At the end: Beijing scuttles Intel's Tower Semiconductor plans, ARM has myriad risks in China, the Wall Street Journal goes deep on the Village Basketball League, and James Harden's wine helps stimulate consumer spending.

Andrew and Bill begin with the heaviest rainfall in at least 140 years in Beijing this week. Topics include: Best wishes to all those affected by the floods, the astounding scale of these storms and resulting damage, citizens angry after local officials allegedly divert floods to protect Xiong'an, and the CPC playbook that will likely restrict information and hide the full extent of the tragedy. From there: Changes atop the PLA Rocket Force raise questions about espionage, the PLA nuclear program, and a years-long anti-corruption campaign under Xi Jinping that may not be over. From there: Follow-up to last week's Intel discussion, officials concerned about Chinese malware in America's military and civilian infrastructure, and a question about the American media and strategic alternatives to dialogue. At the end: The potential security pact between South Korea and Japan, the history and contemporary reality of the Beidaihe Meetings, and a reminder that the podcast will be off until the week of August 21st.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a hastily called National People's Congress Standing Committee meeting, Wang Yi's return to his former role as Foreign Minister, and the removal of Qin Gang. Topics include: The messy procedure that led to this week's removal, possible explanations for Qin retaining his role as state councilor, and a possible timeline for an investigation and further announcements regarding Qin's future. Then: What Qin’s removal might mean within the Foreign Ministry, and the signals this situation is sending to the rest of the world. From there: The Politburo's meeting on the economy, explaining the psychology of the current real estate market, and another edict that may put PRC companies in conflict with Western business practices. At the end: More details on what America's semiconductor companies are telling the White House, pronouncing the word "Reuters," and Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson announces that he'll be playing for China in this summer's FIBA World Cup.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the mystery surrounding foreign minister Qin Gang, who has not been seen in public since June 25th. As the foreign ministry stays silent, what might explain his retreat from public view, and how does this situation reflect on Xi Jinping and the party? Then: Henry Kissinger makes a surprise visit to Beijing, meets first with Defense Minister Li Shangfu, while John Kerry meets with Li Qiang and Wang Yi to talk common ground on climate issues. Will either of them get an audience with Xi? From there: U.S. chip firms lobby the executive branch, Chinese hackers access the emails of Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, and the optics get trickier for Biden's China policy. At the end: Weak economic data for Q2 and a window into who's actually driving the changes to China's relationships with the West.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen's trip to China, including thoughts on what might be the next evolution in the decoupling discourse, various social media controversies that were unrelated to the substance of her meetings, and the optics of cabinet officials traveling to Beijing without many of their Chinese counterparts reciprocating. Then: New PRC regulations for the export of gallium and germanium, and why last week's announcement may do more damage to the PRC than its rivals. From there: The DOJ indicts Gal Luft, Executive Director of the Institute for the Analysis of Global Security, while PRC Foreign Minister Qin Gang is reportedly ill and has not appeared publicly in more than two weeks. At the end: A listener seeks clarification on the domestic challenges facing China and the CPC, the State Department issues a new travel alert for mainland China, and Vietnamese authorities throw Barbie into the middle of a fight in the South China Sea.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with recent comments from President Biden that provided a surprise postscript to last week’s episode about renewed US-China engagement. Then: What the PRC might be thinking after a weekend of uncertainty in Russia, and using Putin’s struggles as an object lesson in why Xi has been so aggressive in his efforts to reform the PLA over the past 11 years. From there: Extended discussion of Huawei’s origins, recent reporting on its presence in Cuba, and the questions the company inspires around the world. At the end: The DOJ highlights the role of Chinese chemical companies in the fentanyl crisis, diplomatic efforts to enhance precursor enforcement have thus far been fruitless, the rise of the term “Indo-Pacific,” TikTok’s resilience, and raising French basketball awareness.

On today's show Andrew and Bill talk through Secretary of State Anthony Blinken's trip to Beijing. First: The voices that convinced Biden to push for an improved relationship, what “back to Bali” actually entails, and reactions to the meetings between Blinken and PRC counterparts Qin Gang and Wang Yi. From there: The Biden Administration wants to close the book on the spy balloon, Xi's public comments concerning US competition vs. what the PRC likely believes internally, Xi's meeting with Blinken, and a sea of takes on seating arrangements, lotus flowers, runway red carpets, and Taiwan independence. At the end: A new report on the PLA's ambitions in Cuba, waiting for a fentanyl working group and more flights between the US and China, and two pieces of media recommended for all listeners.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the latest on Secretary Blinken's visit to Beijing before turning to a recap of several reports on PRC surveillance activities in Cuba and the evolving responses they've elicited from the Biden Administration. From there: What Xi might be signaling with his calls to prepare for “extreme” circumstances and scenarios, more rumors of a stimulus package, and an uptick in administrative fines amid the local debt crisis. At the end: The US says South Korean chip firms can maintain and continue their existing chip fab operations in the PRC, a word about the Global Times, and a few thoughts on the transformation of Beijing in the last 10 years.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reports that Secretary of State Anthony Blinken may visit China sometime "in the coming weeks." Topics include: The State Department's preliminary trip this past weekend, benefits of continued communication, risks of communication as a reward in itself, and why it's important that Blinken visit before others in the cabinet. Then: The Shangri-La Dialogue and the PRC's controversial tactics in the South China Sea, and reactions to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan articulating the One China Policy and why the U.S. remains committed to it. From there: Desertification and China's attempts to curb it, a question about economic stimulus, and a listener's follow-up to last week's Microsoft conversation. At the end: Traveling to China, CCP membership, and a new drilling project that caught the world's attention.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the rejected pitch from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to meet with Defense Minister Li Shangfu this weekend. Topics include: The importance (and limits) of maintaining ongoing military backchannels, why the U.S. push for a meeting was more complicated in this case, and a postscript to last week's questions about America’s response to the silent treatment from PRC diplomats. Then: A report that the Chinese envoy sent to broker peace has urged EU countries to denounce America and demand a ceasefire in Ukraine, and ominous language surfaces in the readout from the National Security Commission. At the end: Elon Musk’s travels inspire a look at Tesla's activity in the PRC, the 16-year journey to a C919 passenger jet and celebrations on a Beijing runway, Microsoft's malware discovery, and a word about energy supply lines in a Taiwan conflict.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the strong messaging that emerged from the G-7 summit in Hiroshima and the foreign ministry‘s response, including thoughts on the ongoing trend toward bifurcation and the cycle of name-calling that pervades the relationship between the US and China. Then: a listener asks about the Biden administration’s China policies: What’s been good? What’s been bad? And what happened to the FBI’s report on the spy balloon? At the end: Two new stories on China’s municipal debt problems, one comedian is arrested in China while another is banned from Weibo, and ESPN’s delays the debut of a Michael Chang documentary for reasons that remain unclear.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the meeting between Qin Gang and US Ambassador Nicholas Burns, the case for sending Anthony Blinken to Beijing before John Kerry, and a few questions as both sides pine for a reset to the status quo at last fall’s G20 Summit. Then: More information on the Capvision raids as PRC state media confirms a coordinated, multi-city campaign led by the MSS, and thoughts on the risks for foreign business and investors that have become obvious over the past month. At the end: Canada-PRC relations get even messier, what the state might do about youth unemployment and birth rate concerns, and closing thoughts on “Chip War,” India and the US, and the party to celebrate the podcast’s 25th episode.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the meeting between Qin Gang and US Ambassador Nicholas Burns, the case for sending Anthony Blinken to Beijing before John Kerry, and a few questions as both sides pine for a reset to the status quo at last fall’s G20 Summit. Then: More information on the Capvision raids as PRC state media confirms a coordinated, multi-city campaign led by the MSS, and thoughts on the risks for foreign business and investors that have become obvious over the past month. At the end: Canada-PRC relations get even messier, what the state might do about youth unemployment and birth rate concerns, and closing thoughts on “Chip War,” India and the US, and the party to celebrate the podcast’s 25th episode.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with news of more raids on Western corporate intelligence firms, investors losing access to Wind Information Co., a reported uptick in foreigners facing exit bans, and the continuing conflict between business-friendly rhetoric and what Xi's security services are doing on the ground. Then: Capital flight to Singapore, various theories to explain the timing of Xi's call to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and head-scratching jargon from the Chinese readout. At the end: The dynamics between India, Pakistan and China, the US strategy with India, and a question about decoupling yields discussion of Apple, Tesla and the burgeoning EV industry in China.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the fallout from Ambassador Lu Shaye's remarks questioning the sovereign rights of former members of the Soviet Union. Where did that talking point come from? Will this complicate China's charm offensive in the EU? And where does Lu's mishap fit in the canon of PRC own-goals in recent history? From there: The arrest of journalist Dong Yuyu, various concerns surrounding the broadened language in the updated counterespionage rules expected to be passed by the Standing Committee this week, and Bill provides context on the rural banking crisis in Henan province. At the end: Janet Yellen's speech as a microcosm of muddled China messaging from the Biden administration, and a listener asks for more information on the Taiwan status quo.

On today's show Andrew and Bill reunite for their first podcast in nearly a month, beginning with takeaways from Brazilian President Lula da Silva's visit to Beijing, the rumored call from Xi to Zelensky that still hasn't happened, and reactions to French President Emmanuel Macron's comments on Europe and Taiwan. From there: The raid on US due diligence firm Mintz, how the PRC might (and might not) respond to several years of escalating trade restrictions from the U.S., and three complaints filed by the Department of Justice charging MSS officers for "transnational repression schemes targeting U.S. residents." At the end: Arguments for releasing the FBI's balloon findings despite the reported PRC objections, early takeaways from the Discord leaks, and emails about China’s GDP and U.S. intelligence capabilities in China.

On today’s show guest host Ben Thompson and Bill begin with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy and discuss China's reaction and the mood on the ground in Taiwan as it approaches a Presidential Election. Later: a discussion on Warren Buffett's comments about TSMC and China's proposed rules for AI.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow and a week of news about deepening ties between China and Russia. Topics include: The recent inversion of the Russia-China relationship, concerns about what a Xi-Putin union means for the rest of the world, and more signs that a much broader project is underway as Xi seek to reshape the international order. For the second half of the show: Real-time reactions to Thursday’s TikTok hearing in Congress, including the testimony from CEO Shou Zi Chew, the lobbying efforts that bore little fruit this week, and framing today’s TikTok reality with memories of the public apology from ByteDance founder Zhang Yiming in 2018. At the end: The ERNIE Bot rollercoaster, a public apology to Purdue basketball fans, and Chinese food recs in the D.C. area.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the news that Saudi Arabia and Iran have reestablished diplomatic relations in a deal that was mediated by China, and announced in Beijing last week. Then: A report that Xi could visit Russia as early as next week, a second report that he will be making his first call to Zelenskyy since the Russian invasion began last year, President Biden heralds the AUKUS submarine partnership alongside leaders from the UK and Australia, and reactions to the idea that a Kamala Harris trip to China might appease the PRC if Taiwanese president Tsai Ing-wen visits with members of Congress during her trip to the United States. At the end: Keeping population concerns in perspective, information constraints and China's humanitarian abuses, the story of Xi Jinping's father, Xi Zhongxun, finally some updates on the foreign-entry Visa situation, and a college basketball star of Chinese descent.

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with the first few days of the Two Sessions and what to make of the messages sent by Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Then: Reactions to a few recent columns expressing concern at the bipartisan consensus in DC, a new plan for Chinese data, and the draft budget provides more signs that self-sufficiency is a priority across several sectors in the PRC. From there: Tracing the origins of the United Front Work Department and examining the political uproar in Canada after a series of intelligence leaks regarding allegations of PRC election interference. At the end: Kevin McCarthy’s rumored meeting with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, memories of a visit from Lee Teng-hui in 1995, the Ft. Detrick conspiracy theory that refuses to go away, China’s green energy ambitions, and a slightly different take on corruption.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reactions to the PRC’s 12-point plan for a peaceful settlement of the Russian war in Ukraine, including why feigning neutrality fell flat with the international community, continued warnings from U.S. officials regarding weapons assistance, and a visit to Beijing from Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko. From there: the Central Party Committee and State Council release new guidelines for legal education, examining the Chinese legal system under Xi, and thoughts on the implications of a Congressional investigation into the origins of COVID-19. At the end: Updates on Bao Fan, the crackdown on corruption in the financial sector, PRC currency ambitions, the shift to conducting life via mobile apps, and a word about gray hair.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with reaction to the meeting between Wang Yi and Anthony Blinken in Munich last weekend, including competing readouts that signal continued tension between the U.S. and China, other statements weekend that underscore Chinese frustrations, and what to look for from both sides in the months to come. Then: Joe Biden is in Kyiv, Wang Yi is in Moscow, and Secretary of State Blinken is warning the rest of the world that China is considering providing lethal assistance to the Russians. They discuss the implications of such assistance, questions about the underlying intelligence, the EU's stance, and the various considerations that make this possibility so concerning for the rest of the world. At the end: The mystery surrounding Bao Fan over the past week, the departure of Ray Dalio, uncertainty clouding the future of US-China travel, and a bit of good news from comedy clubs in New York City.

On today's show Bill and Andrew begin with the continuing reactions to the balloon controversy, including rumors of a Blinken-Wang Yi meeting in Munich, last weekend’s new foreign object sightings, China’s story of a flying object outside Qingdao, and reports that U.S. officials believe that the initial balloon did, in fact, fly off course. Then: Surveying the anti-American propaganda circulating among state media this week, the CPC’s new favorite journalist, and the efficacy of China's propaganda efforts worldwide. From there: A word about history books, the present-day plight of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang, and a listener asks for a roadmap of what a (highly unlikely) regime change might look like if Xi or the CPC are ever to be unseated. At the end: What does a chatbot look like in the PRC of the future, and what kind of impact has ChatGPT had in China for the past few months?

On today’s show Andrew and Bill begin with a few reactions to Joe Biden’s comments about China in Tuesday’s State of the Union address. From there: several days of outsized reaction around Washington, mounting calls for even stronger American responses to China’s ambitions, and stress-testing the theory that last week’s balloon mess was initiated by rogue PLA agents hoping to sabotage diplomatic talks. At the end: A question about Xi’s conflicting priorities, a close reading of Xi’s comments on "Chinese-style modernization," travel policies for PRC nationals, a simpler explanation for the state visit to Russia, and another note on extraterrestrial exploration.

On today's show Andrew and Bill reconvene for an emergency episode to share their reactions to the news that the Pentagon is tracking a Chinese reconnaissance balloon across the U.S., the statements coming from both the Pentagon and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the news that Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has canceled his trip to Beijing.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with a variety of thoughts in advance of next week's visit to Beijing from Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Topics include: Why cooperation has proven difficult for both sides, hopes that the U.S. can avoid a repeat of Yang Jiechi in Anchorage, an editorial in the People's Daily, and extended thoughts on domestic political concerns underlying the intractable Taiwan dispute. From there: Reactions to a memo from U.S. General Mike Minihan instructing members of the Air Force to prepare for armed conflict with China, while the Russian Foreign Ministry announces that Xi Jinping will be visiting Moscow (and the Chinese demur when asked for confirmation). At the end: No updates on foreign Visa holders, a question about the dwindling numbers of Westerners studying Chinese, a clarification regarding Hua Chunying, and a call to listeners for UFO assistance.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with news of a jinx on last week's show and recommendations for new China watchers. Topics include Bill's lessons from living in China, Andrew's experience as a newcomer, and ten China watching commandments from the legendary editor of China News Analysis, László Ladány. From there: Checking in with the Belt and Road Initiative after articles in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times describe populations abroad protesting Chinese influence, reactions to proposed bills in Texas and Florida that could ban land sales to PRC nationals, and a question about repeat covid cases complicating reopening plans. At the end: The Pentagon is preparing for a Kevin McCarthy Taiwan trip, a look at Taiwanese diplomacy in DC, remembering Mr. K's in the 1980s, and Qin Gang makes another appearance at a Wizards game.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with thoughts on the change in tone from government officials addressing private business, changes it might signify in the short term, and concerns it may not assuage in the long term. From there: the news of a deepened strategic alliance between the US and Japan, why Beijing is outraged, and best case and worst case scenarios when evaluating the implications for a conflict in Taiwan. At the end: China’s population declines for the first time in six decades, the Shanxi party apparatus appoints party chiefs to 25 private companies, the FBI investigates undeclared police stations in the U.S., and Marvel movies return to Chinese theaters—but not during the Lunar New Year.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin by talking through the latest news on the reopening, including reciprocal travel restrictions imposed on South Korea and Japan, Paxlovid price disputes, and continued uncertainty about case counts. From there: Xie Feng as the likely replacement for Qin Gang in D.C., Zhao Lijan's demotion, the possible demise of wolf warriorism, and the scope of Made in China 2025 and the responses (or lack thereof) from Western companies. At the end: Foxconn's unique status in China, a Formula1 reality check, and extended thoughts from Bill after a listener asks whether he feels safe traveling to China.

On today's show Andrew and Bill reunite after the holiday break and begin with the continued reopening process around China. Topics include: the tragedy of the past several weeks, calls for more transparency from the CCP, dubious testing requirements for Chinese travelers, the government reportedly pressing pause on some of its chip investments, and why it may take a few months before reopening yields any meaningful shift in economic data. Then: Xi's New Year's address and reactions to a spate of articles related to his standing in China. At the end: Formula 1 may be returning to China, Qin Gang goes from the Washington Wizards to the Central Committee, and TikTok's future is murkier than ever after some news that was not-quite-buried before the Christmas holiday.

On this week's show Andrew and Bill begin with the landscape in China one week after the widespread elimination of covid restrictions. Topics include: Early reports from Beijing and other major cities, best and worst case scenarios for case numbers, what Westerners can and can’t know, and how this process (and the protests) might change perceptions of the CCP inside and outside of China. From there: "The Twitter Files" don't say anything about China, so Bill highlights a number of different areas and incidents he'd like to learn more about during Twitter's celebration of truth and transparency. At the end: The Chinese look to the WTO for chip ban relief, a murky outlook for firms like Alibaba and leaders like Jack Ma, and a question about comedy clubs in Beijing.

On this week's show Andrew and Bill begin with the passing of Jiang Zemin and an overview of the abrupt shift in covid messaging in cities across China. Then mailbag questions, beginning with a listener’s request for context on China's relationships with Japan, Vietnam, Korea and Australia. From there: America’s non-chip interests in Taiwan, whether continued unemployment among college grads will lead to more protests, and why the focus on mRNA vaccines is beside the point with reopening looming. At the end: How China might force Western businesses to compromise their values, the various layers of domestic censorship, and the third host (Tashi) joins to discuss the latest adventures of Zhao Lijan.

A review of last weekend's protests and the various questions they raise for Xi and the CCP, a look at the methods used to defuse protests on campuses and in cities, a path to reopening that remains rocky but looks increasingly unavoidable, plus thoughts on the World Cup, Twitter, and an Occam's razor explanation for Xi’s Covid policies.

The meeting between US and Chinese delegations before the G20 summit, the political and structural challenges that may complicate efforts to rebuild the US-China relationship, varied interests underlying the PRC's recent statements about the invasion of Ukraine, Justin Trudeau's tense exchange with Xi, and controversial thoughts on moon cakes.

Examining China's relationship with Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Canada, what the latest Foxconn lockdown says about Apple's risk profile, the real story on China's "ghost cities," and thoughts on the U.S. response to Taiwan.

COVID lockdowns at Foxconn and elsewhere in China, a survey of the near-daily rumors of a looming policy change, glimpses of what these policies have meant for Chinese citizens, and reactions to the latest report seeking clarity as to COVID-19’s origins. 

The new standing committee unveiled at the 20th Party Congress, the market reaction in Hong Kong, competing theories on what happened to Hu Jintao on Saturday, and whether the world has seen "Peak Xi."

Xi's departure from the era of "strategic opportunity" at the 20th Party Congress, a wait-and-see approach to the implications of this week, a delay of China's Q3 economic data and ongoing concerns over opacity. Then, reactions to the most recent round of U.S. export controls.