Introduction

As Donald Trump prepares to assume office, the spotlight shifts to his strategy for addressing one of the United States’ most challenging adversaries—China. Gordon Chang, a prominent China analyst, shares his insights on how Trump should approach this critical relationship, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive actions to protect U.S. interests.

Key Points from Gordon Chang’s Perspective

1. Recognizing the Reality of the U.S.-China Cold War

• Chang highlights that the U.S. is already in a de facto cold war with China, despite societal perceptions of peace.
• He stresses the need for Trump to openly acknowledge China’s aggressive stance and its ongoing “unrestricted warfare” against the United States.
• This includes cyberattacks, intellectual property theft, and the use of fentanyl, which claims tens of thousands of American lives annually.

2. Imposing Economic Deterrents

• Trump’s 2018 tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 were a step forward, targeting China’s theft of U.S. intellectual property.
• Chang advocates for escalating these tariffs to counter China’s reliance on the U.S. market for economic stability.
• He also calls for enforcing the Tariff Act of 1930 to block goods made with forced labor, a practice rampant in China’s green product manufacturing.

3. Strengthening Sovereignty and Cutting Ties

• Chang suggests shutting down certain Chinese consulates engaged in activities that violate U.S. sovereignty and law.
• He believes severing relations with China is necessary to halt their use of diplomatic and trade channels as tools to undermine U.S. society.

4. Preparing for Escalations

• Tensions between the U.S. and China are expected to rise as Trump assumes office.
• Chang underscores the importance of adopting a proactive defense strategy to counter China’s increasing hostility.

What Trump Should Prioritize

1. Public Address on China’s Threat
   • Chang recommends that Trump, from the Oval Office, address the American people to explain the gravity of China’s actions and the need for robust defense measures.
   • This communication would align with the President’s constitutional duty to protect citizens from foreign threats.
2. Focusing on Key Economic and Strategic Actions
   • Intensify tariffs to deter intellectual property theft and other economic misconduct.
   • Strengthen enforcement against the import of goods made with forced labor, upholding American values and laws.
3. Taking a Stand on Chinese Aggression
   • Address China’s use of fentanyl as a weapon against American society.
   • Clamp down on cyberattacks and diplomatic overreach, holding China accountable for its malicious activities.

Conclusion

Gordon Chang’s recommendations for Trump’s China strategy reflect a deep understanding of the complex and evolving challenges posed by Beijing. From economic deterrents to strategic decoupling, Chang emphasizes the need for bold, decisive actions. As the U.S. prepares for a potential escalation in tensions, Trump’s approach will be pivotal in shaping the future of U.S.-China relations.

This moment in history demands leadership that can confront adversaries while safeguarding American interests and values. Only time will tell how Trump navigates this intricate and high-stakes relationship.