Economist Podcasts Helmsman’s high water: China’s Communist Party Congress
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Oct 17, 2022 
David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, shares expert insights on Xi Jinping's recent performance at the Communist Party Congress. He deciphers the dense rhetoric around Xi's decade of leadership and his assertive stance on Taiwan and Hong Kong. The conversation also touches on the looming economic struggles faced by major U.S. companies and explores fascinating findings about fatherhood, revealing the surprising neurological effects that come with parenting. It's a deep dive into the intricate interplay of politics and economics.
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Security and Taiwan
- Xi Jinping's speech signaled a security-focused approach and no change in policies like zero-COVID.
- He reiterated his stance on Taiwan, stating reunification is inevitable and not ruling out force.
Elite Divisions
- The Chinese elite are divided on Xi's rule due to his tightening control over various aspects of life.
- His doubling down on existing policies rejects concerns about China's direction.
Power and Succession
- While the Congress appears preordained, the final act reveals Xi's amassed power.
- A new Central Committee and Standing Committee will be chosen, potentially revealing his successor.