Can the US Break the Cycle of Blaming China for Manufacturing Decline Without Addressing the Roots?

Richard Wolff on Global Times

On Global Times, the discussion examines the decline of the U.S. manufacturing sector, focusing on corporate decisions that shifted production to countries like China for lower wages and expanding markets. Topics include the oversimplification of blaming China for this decline, the unrealistic promises of politicians to revive domestic manufacturing, and the influence of global market forces on capitalist behavior. The conversation addresses the challenges of reshoring manufacturing, including the potential inflationary effects of tariffs and the tensions between economic nationalism and fostering economic ties with China. It highlights a growing divide between advocates of closer relations with China and proponents of protectionism, pointing to a potential conflict shaping U.S. economic policy.