Part 7/12:
Even during the Trump era, characterized by confrontational trade policies, the outcomes did not fundamentally change. The phase one trade deal in 2020—though grand in presentation—was largely a façade. China met only about half of its purchase commitments, and key issues like intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers persisted.
Such deals, described as "signatures on ice," look solid initially but melt away under Beijing’s rehearsed performance of compliance. The ongoing game involves strategic stalling—negotiating in cycles that can last for years or even centuries—while China stockpiles resources, tightens control, and plays further diplomatic tricks.