Michael Pillsbury

The Chinese Economy in the Next 30 Years: Political Reform vs. Status Quo?

Sheryl WuDunn, Nicholas Lardy, Michael Pillsbury, Sophie Richardson, Stephen Roach, Perry Wong, Max, Michael Chewy

A panel of five experts, including Michael Pillsbury and Nicholas Lardy, evaluates the trajectory of the Chinese economy and U.S.-China relations over the coming three decades. The discussion highlights critical tensions surrounding the Belt and Road Initiative's lack of regulatory standards, China's high corporate debt levels, and the strategic risks posed by tightening political control on innovation. Speakers ultimately forecast inevitable trade confrontations and potential Cold War-style standoffs if Beijing fails to adhere to future agreements while the U.S. reassesses the foundational architecture of the bilateral relationship.