A 5 percent GDP Growth Target; Evolving Two Sessions Symbolism; US to Investigate Connected Vehicles; New TikTok Legislation

Sharp China with Bill Bishop

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Bill Bishop is the author of Sinocism

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On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with takeaways from the Two Sessions, including the work report from Premier Li Qiang, what to make of the 5% GDP growth target for 2024, the cancellation of Li's press conference, Xi Jinping’s visit to the Jiangsu breakout session and his message on new productive forces and economic development, and the evolution of the Two Sessions in recent years. From there: The latest exchange between the Philippines and the PRC in the South China Sea, the Biden White House announces an investigation into Chinese Connected Vehicles, and there’s a bipartisan bill in the House that will renew the TikTok conversation in D.C.

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No big surprises in the NPC work report; Xi talks new productive forces with Jiangsu delegation; Second Thomas Shoal; TikTok — Sinocism

Two sessions; Talking up the economy’s bright prospects; US-China; "Pseudo-middle class trap" — Sinocism

China’s Premier Steps Deeper Into Xi’s Shadow — Wall Street Journal

Xi’s One-Man Rule Over China’s Economy Is Spurring Unrest — Bloomberg

Philippines says crew hurt, vessels damaged by China Coast Guard — ABS-CBN News

Video from Armed Forces of the Philippines — @barnabychuck

Statement from President Biden on Addressing National Security Risks to the U.S. Auto Industry — The White House

US Probes Security Risks in Chinese Cars, Mulls Curbs — Bloomberg

China's global auto strength: Why cost advantage is key for Chinese automakers — CNBC Television YouTube

Lawmakers introduce bill that would punish app stores for hosting TikTok — The Verge

TikTok Policy Response to Legislation — @TikTok Policy

Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act Draft Bill — Punchbowl News