Anti-China hysteria could prove self-defeating for US

The U.S. Congress recently held “China Week,” passing 25 bills aimed at curbing China’s advancements in biotechnology, drones, electric vehicles (EVs), and more. This surge in anti-China legislation reflects a growing anxiety about China’s rapid progress in areas where it rivals or surpasses the United States. Instead of focusing on making America stronger, U.S. lawmakers are prioritizing efforts to hinder China’s development.

The number of China-related bills introduced has skyrocketed in recent years, doubling from the 115th to the 116th and 117th Congresses. These bills span a wide range of areas, from economics and technology to security. However, the effectiveness of these legislative moves is questionable. History has shown that such measures are unlikely to achieve their intended goals and may even backfire on the U.S. economy.

For instance, one recent bill tightens restrictions on Chinese content in vehicles qualifying for U.S. EV tax credits, aiming to cut China out of America’s EV supply chain. However, China’s leadership in EV batteries and other technologies is so substantial that experts warn trying to build a China-free supply chain could significantly slow America’s auto industry and hinder its green transformation. Despite political pressure, companies like Ford are still seeking partnerships with China’s leading battery maker, CATL, for production in the U.S.

These legislative actions not only threaten U.S. industries but also risk isolating the country from international collaboration. The Biosecure Act, for example, seeks to ban contracts with Chinese biotech firms. U.S. researchers argue that such moves could harm scientific progress and isolate America from global advancements in biotechnology. These policies, rooted in protectionism and isolationism, do more harm than good, especially in industries like steel, automobiles, and new energy, where the U.S. faces serious challenges.

Rather than simply pointing fingers at China, U.S. lawmakers would do well to study the reasons behind China’s success. China’s growth is driven by high-quality development, a competitive domestic market, and a government focused on reform, innovation, and openness to global partnerships. These factors have allowed China to thrive, and the U.S. could learn valuable lessons from its approach. Unfortunately, there is little evidence that U.S. politicians have the motivation or vision to adopt these strategies, especially in a political climate where China is consistently portrayed as a threat.

China has repeatedly stated that its modernization and innovation efforts are not aimed at defeating the U.S. and that it will not succumb to external pressures. Attempts like “China Week” are ultimately little more than political stunts that stoke fear without addressing the real issues facing the U.S. economy.

Ernest Hemingway once said, “True nobility is being superior to your former self.” This advice is particularly relevant for U.S. politicians today. Instead of blaming external forces for America’s challenges, they should focus on solving domestic problems and improving the country’s global competitiveness. Only by doing so can the U.S. truly become a better version of itself, rather than resorting to counterproductive measures that could harm its own future.

[Abridged]

Editors, Xinhua