U.S. Indo-Pacific Commander Questions China's Reported Economic Growth, Calls Economy 'Failing'

Adm. John Aquilino, the commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, expressed doubts about China's reported economic growth, describing the Chinese economy as 'failing' during a recent visit to Japan. Aquilino stated that China's official growth rates are 'not real' and that its economy has been battered by turmoil in the real estate sector.

The admiral's comments come amid growing concerns about China's increasing defense spending despite its economic challenges. Aquilino said China is spending 'drastically more' on its military than the 7.2% increase it declared last month, which he finds concerning given the state of its economy.

Why this matters: Aquilino's remarks highlight the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The economic and military dynamics between the two global powers have far-reaching implications for international stability and the balance of power in Asia.

Aquilino also criticized China's increasingly aggressive rhetoric and actions in the South and East China Seas, particularly around the disputed Second Thomas Shoal and Taiwan. He warned about the tighter cooperation in military matters between China, Russia, and North Korea, stating that the "linkage of authoritarian nations to change the world order should be concerning to all those with common values, specifically freedom, rules-based order and a rule of law."

According to Aquilino, Chinese President Xi Jinping has instructed the Chinese military to be prepared to invade Taiwan by 2027. This timeline is based on Xi asking "his military to be prepared if tasked to execute in 2027." The admiral welcomed the increased coordination in command-and-control functions between the Self-Defense Forces and the US military, saying it is "the right path."

Adm. John Aquilino, who will be succeeded by Adm. Samuel Paparo in early May 2024, also labeled North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's regime as "disgusting" for spending on its military while the country faces food shortages. His comments underscore the complex security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and the importance of U.S. engagement with allies and partners to maintain stability and counter potential threats.

Key Takeaways

• U.S. admiral doubts China's reported economic growth, calls it 'failing'.
• China's defense spending is 'drastically more' than officially reported, raising concerns.
• Tensions between U.S. and China in Indo-Pacific have implications for global stability.
• China, Russia, and North Korea's military cooperation is concerning to U.S.
• U.S. admiral labels North Korea's military spending 'disgusting' amid food shortages.