The Great Fall Of China?

Thursday 11th June, 3pm BST

China’s usually bullish economy shrank 6.8% in the first quarter of 2020, a clear indication of the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Depressed demand from abroad is likely to impact the economy further.

Many businesses are suffering – low-skilled workers in hospitality, retail, real estate, and travel sectors fearing long-term unemployment with state economic support relatively limited compared to other countries.

China’s woes are worsening as it is dragged into this year’s US presidential elections with Trump escalating his attacks by claiming the virus originated in a laboratory in Wuhan. Will Beijing retaliate and bring down more sanctions, damaging the economy further?

With Covid-19 resulting in less global trade and a reduced appetite for international collaboration what might be the impacts be on China?

 

Isabel Hilton is the editor of chinadialogue.net

Steve Tsang is a political scientist, historian and expert on politics and governance in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, and peace and security in East Asia.