Bazinga! Trump vs. Xi: A Manufacturing Showdown of Epic Proportions (and Why My Spot is Still Safe)

The Unacceptable Primacy of Manufacturing: An Observation

As a theoretical physicist I find myself compelled to comment on this... *situation*. Apparently President Trump in a move that is shall we say *less than entirely irrational* (a rarity I assure you) desires to bolster domestic production of high tech products. Not socks not sneakers but things that require... *intellect*. Meanwhile China led by President Xi is doubling down on advanced manufacturing. It’s a bit like when Leonard tries to compete with me in physics – utterly futile yet persistent. As I often say 'I'm not insane my mother had me tested.'

Xi's Manufacturing Obsession: A Suboptimal Strategy?

Last week Xi Jinping in a decision that reeks of suboptimal resource allocation reaffirmed his commitment to manufacturing led growth. He even visited a ball bearing factory. Ball bearings! Really? Is this the best use of their time? While I appreciate a good ball bearing (they do minimize friction) I fail to see how they compare to say string theory or the proper way to organize one's comic book collection. China it appears wants to be self reliant which is admirable in the same way that Leonard's attempts at humor are... well attempts.

The Trade Imbalance: A Tragedy in Three Acts (and Several Equations)

Experts suggest that China's manufacturing push is at odds with Trump's demands to address trade imbalances. Apparently Trump wants China to stop subsidizing its companies. Now I understand the concept of fairness. For instance it's only fair that I always get the comfortable spot on the sofa. But economics? That's a field best left to those who can't comprehend the elegance of quantum mechanics. Allan von Mehren some economist is not optimistic about a deal. I concur. People are irrational. Especially when it comes to matters of economic policy! It is quite elementary my dear reader.

Made in China 2025: A Ten Year Itch for Technological Supremacy

Ah yes the “Made in China 2025” plan. A ten year ambition to transform China into a high end manufacturer of electric vehicles commercial aircraft semiconductors and robots. Robots! I for one welcome our new robot overlords... as long as they maintain a proper level of cleanliness and adhere to my roommate agreement. But let’s be honest anyone who’s ever seen one of those Boston Dynamics robots trip over a pebble knows that we are far from any robot uprising. And as for China's ten year plan let's just say that predicting the future is about as accurate as predicting when Penny will understand sarcasm.

The Global Backlash: Tensions Rising Faster Than the Speed of Light (Almost)

As U.S. tariffs loom Chinese manufacturers are frantically redesigning Santa Claus figurines to appeal to European consumers. Apparently rounder faces and blue eyes are the key to global domination. I however remain unconvinced. Nick Marro some economist warns of rising EU China tensions. Top finance officials are convening to address overcapacity and unfair trade practices. The world is in turmoil! I’m glad I have my meticulously organized apartment and my spot. “Everything is complicated,” as someone (probably lacking in intellectual rigor) once said.

The Deflationary Dilemma: Is China Exporting... Discount Prices?!

Economists call on China to shift to a consumption led model. China's retail sales growth slowed. They can't convince their consumers to spend! Clearly they need a well structured scientifically sound marketing strategy... devised by yours truly of course. In the meantime some argue that China is exporting deflation. Cheap goods flooding the market. For markets with limited manufacturing bases like Australia cheap Chinese imports could ease the cost of living crisis and help bring down inflationary pressure. Perhaps they should consult me. I will give them the knowledge they require and maybe even a discount. Bazinga!