SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, August 30, 2024  - Asia Society Northern California hosted a Executive Roundtable featuring Ambassador Kevin Rudd, Australia's Ambassador to the United States. Ambassador Rudd shared his insights on the latest developments in China's domestic economy and global relations.

Ambassador Rudd highlighted several key factors contributing to China's slowing growth, including the middle-income transition, COVID-19 containment policies, geopolitical risks, high inflation, and industrial policy security concerns. 

The discussion also touched on China's global relations, including its oversupply and net export policies, which have led to tariff increases and tensions with other nations. Ambassador Rudd emphasized the significance of Taiwan, China's ideological worldview, and the impact of Xi's Marxism on the country's political economy.

During the Q&A session, Ambassador Rudd addressed various topics, including his latest book on Xi Jinping, currency, domestic demand, and consumer confidence. He also discussed US-Australia relations, human rights in China, and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).