As the balance of power slowly shifts away from the West and towards Asia, many believe there are several reasons China is a threat to the US. Of course this does not mean that these two nations are on the brink of war, nor that they will engage in combat anytime soon, but rather that the US’ hegemonic position as a superpower is in danger. In other words, the rise of China to superpower status is not far away (if it has not already achieved it), meaning it could take on a far more important role in global politics and even compete with the US for influence.
If you read our previous post regarding the 9 facts you won’t believe a majority of Americans don’t know, then you are aware that some issues do not transcend to the general population. The reasons China is a threat to the US can easily be included in this category, since global politics and strategic considerations are usually not of much concern to your average Joe. In fact, a shift in the balance of power might even go unnoticed in the US, especially if it comes about in a peaceful manner. On the other hand, powerful nations have rarely abandoned their position as world leaders without putting up a fight, meaning we could be entering a time of increased political turmoil.
Either way, the threat that China poses to the US in the short-term is not of a military nature, but rather one of increased competition. In the long run, nobody knows how US-Chinese relations will develop, meaning the possibility for conflict is always possible. Hence, taking a closer look at the reasons China is a threat to the US is crucial to understanding the foreign policy of both countries and how it could shape their future paths and relationship.
Although we cannot speculate as to what the future holds, there are some facts that indicate where things are heading. China has been growing economically for decades and has been extending its reach to markets all around the world. The US on the other hand has been struggling to remain competitive, whilst making more enemies than friends on the political front.
Without looking too far into the future, there are already several reasons China is a threat to the US, as you will learn about in the following list.
4. Increased Military Spending
The accelerated pace at which the Chinese economy has been growing has allowed the government to increase military spending dramatically. In 2014 alone, the military budget of China rose by 12.2% to $132 billion. This might not seem like much compared to what the US spends, yet the concern is that the Chinese are investing too much in heavy military equipment. The purchase of aircraft carriers, and development of fighter jets for example could threaten the US’ ability to dictate terms in the region, especially regarding Taiwan.
3. Expanding International Ties
One of the things the United States feels most threatened by is the speed at which China has been cultivating new connections around the world. Whether in Africa or South America, the Chinese have not only expanded their diplomatic efforts considerably, but have also invested large sums and established numerous trade agreements. Hence, many nations now turn to China, thus reducing the US’ influence on a global scale.
2. Authoritarian Form of Government
The fact that the Chinese still have an authoritarian government ruled by the Communist Party of China, is not only worrisome, but could represent yet another threat to American interests. The fact that China has demonstrated that economic growth and human development can be achieved through authoritarian rule, has given new life to dictators around the world. The US can no longer claim that democracy is the only path towards progress, while authoritarian leaders are also far more prone to seek relations with China, a country which is known for its lack of interest in the domestic affairs of others.
1. Rising Economic Power
Despite the fact that the reasons presented in this list are in no particular order, China’s rising economic power can easily be identified as the largest threat to the United States. As history has demonstrated, any nation aspiring to become the next superpower must have a powerful economy backing it. Considering China’s economy is reaching epic proportions, and that it holds massive reserves in US dollars, along with a large portion of American debt, there is certainly reason to feel threatened. Although far-fetched under current circumstances, the Chinese could potentially set off a massive financial crisis on Wall Street, by dumping an excessive amount of US currency into the market.
