As the U.S. Congress passes a comprehensive bill poised to significantly increase the national debt, China has refrained from its usual critiques, marking a shift in its diplomatic strategy.
Why China is Silent on U.S. Debt Concerns Amid Domestic Policy Bill

Why China is Silent on U.S. Debt Concerns Amid Domestic Policy Bill
China's muted response to the U.S. debt crisis raises questions about its hold on American Treasury bonds.
The House just approved a sweeping legislation that extends tax cuts while proposing deep cuts to social safety programs, projected to escalate U.S. national debt by over $3 trillion in the next decade. Historically, China, as one of the largest holders of U.S. debt, has been vocal about U.S. financial practices, often warning Washington about the implications of irresponsible spending.
This time, however, Beijing remains largely silent despite the potential risks associated with its substantial holdings in U.S. Treasury bonds. According to Yasheng Huang, an economist at MIT, the depreciation of the dollar and doubts over the U.S.'s commitment to its debt obligations are critical factors concerning China.
Chinese media coverage has shifted to focus more on the contentious nature of the bill's passage, describing the political processes in the U.S. as a "circus" and highlighting the deepening polarization among American lawmakers. The lack of Chinese commentary on the bill could indicate a strategic decision to avoid exacerbating tensions while scrutinizing the unfolding consequences of U.S. domestic policies.
Observers are left to ponder what this change in tone signifies for future U.S.-China relations and the implications it will have on the broader global economy as fiscal challenges loom.
This time, however, Beijing remains largely silent despite the potential risks associated with its substantial holdings in U.S. Treasury bonds. According to Yasheng Huang, an economist at MIT, the depreciation of the dollar and doubts over the U.S.'s commitment to its debt obligations are critical factors concerning China.
Chinese media coverage has shifted to focus more on the contentious nature of the bill's passage, describing the political processes in the U.S. as a "circus" and highlighting the deepening polarization among American lawmakers. The lack of Chinese commentary on the bill could indicate a strategic decision to avoid exacerbating tensions while scrutinizing the unfolding consequences of U.S. domestic policies.
Observers are left to ponder what this change in tone signifies for future U.S.-China relations and the implications it will have on the broader global economy as fiscal challenges loom.