Today, Explained China is winning
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Jan 12, 2026 
John Zinn, a China analyst from the Brookings Institution, shares insights on the evolving U.S.-China relations and China's strategic maneuvers under pressure. Don Wineland, a finance editor at The Economist, discusses China's cultural exports, highlighting the global rise of LaBubu dolls and the animated hit Najjar 2. They explore how Chinese soft power is gaining traction, thanks to mid-career creators and better funding. With these shifts, China's cultural influence is set to expand significantly in the coming years.
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US Rollbacks Gave China Leverage
- The Trump administration walked back some export controls and tariffs after initial escalation.
- Zinn views that rollback as a major strategic win for China because it reduced U.S. tech restrictions.
Xi Plays The Long Negotiation Game
- Xi Jinping plays a long game and is a tough negotiator who seeks incremental advantage, not quick deals.
- Zinn warns this long-term posture allowed China to accrue significant leverage over the U.S.
Beijing Times Moves Around U.S. Politics
- China times diplomacy to U.S. political cycles, aiming to keep Trump invested before midterms.
- Zinn suggests Beijing expects more leverage as the U.S. seeks tangible deals near elections.