Asia is one of the most critical geopolitical points in the world. The Indo-Pacific holds over 60 percent of the world's population and GDP. As Robert Sutter shows, it's also the site of intensifying competition between the United States and China. While Trump's tariffs have compelled Indo-Pacific governments to remake trade relations in line with US preferences, China has doubled down on exports, weakening regional competition. And then there is the question of Taiwan.
Asia in the Balance provides a comprehensive introduction to US–China competition for influence in the Indo-Pacific. Sutter explains why and how the US–China rivalry emerged after decades of cooperation to become the leading determinant of regional dynamics. And he examines how the rivalry influences each of the countries in the Indo-Pacific. Sutter argues that Trump's actions caused a decline in US regional influence but that, thus far, this has not worked to China's advantage. China's rigidity is preventing Beijing from capitalizing on Washington's alienation of its allies.
