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The Big Picture brings together a range of PS commentaries to give readers a comprehensive understanding of topics in the news – and the deeper issues driving the news. The Big Question features concise contributor analysis and predictions on timely topics.
The Art of the Delay
With US President Donald Trump preparing to close a trade deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Trump's Palm Beach estate, American businesses that have been hurt by the trade war are doubtless hoping for more than a show of pageantry. They shouldn't hold their breath.
In this Big Picture, Andrew Sheng and Xiao Geng argue that, deal or no deal, the Trump administration's zero-sum approach to foreign policy is inflicting collateral economic damage that will blow back on both parties. And Stephen S. Roach shows that, contrary to US assumptions, it is China that holds the upper hand as it shakes off short-term weakness.
Meanwhile, Martin Feldstein points out that Trump's singular focus on the US-China bilateral trade balance will leave many of the outstanding issues at the heart of the dispute unresolved. Minxin Pei agrees, and argues that an agreement focused solely on trade will actually deepen the Sino-American strategic rivalry.