Does the US need to seek to limit China’s economic growth in order to protect itself?

China’s rapid economic growth has been accompanied by a significant expansion in its military capabilities. This has generated debate about whether the United States needs to seek to limit China’s economic expansion in order to protect itself. A new lexicon of terms has emerged as outgrowths of these discussions, such as decoupling versus de-risking economic links with China. Underlying these questions, though, is a more fundamental issue around whether the United States can feel safe and secure alongside a prosperous and growing China. If so, what limits should the United States place on trade with China in order to reasonably protect its national security?

On October 4, the Foreign Policy program at Brookings will analyze these questions to generate a range of perspectives and emphasize the risks and tradeoffs of policy choices. This public event, part of the Global China project, complements a written debate focused on these questions. Audience Q&A will follow the moderated discussion.

Viewers may submit questions by emailing [email protected] or on Twitter using the hashtag #GlobalChina.

Registration is required to attend an event in person and guests at Brookings are required to attest to their state of health before attending. Visitors may not enter the building if they are feeling ill for any reason, have any symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19, or have tested positive for COVID-19 at any time in the preceding 5 days or longer in accordance with current CDC guidance, or have been advised by their healthcare professional or otherwise to not enter any space where some persons may not be vaccinated.