With the US election approaching, both Democrats and Republicans agree on one thing: maintaining pressure on China. Current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have taken tough stances on Beijing, leading to a strategic competition that experts believe will continue even after the election results.

Continued Containment of China

Trump and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris have both emphasized containing Beijing’s strategic ambitions and responding to aggression towards Taiwan. Trump has proposed heavy tariffs on Chinese goods, while Harris vows to ensure America’s success over China in the 21st century.

Beijing’s Preference

Experts speculate that China may prefer Trump’s isolationist policies, which could deepen divisions within American democracy. However, Harris remains a wildcard in terms of foreign policy towards China, with potential to maintain Biden’s approach but with subtlety.

Comparing Harris and Biden

While Biden has taken a tough stance on China, Harris is considered less hawkish, raising the possibility of a more engaging US-China relationship if she were to win the election. Harris’s focus on domestic issues and reserved stance on military support for Taiwan compared to Biden suggests a different approach to China.