Washington must stop trade war and work with allies to counter China risks, says US think tank

Non-partisan research institution recommends cooperation to help an increasingly isolated United States ‘partially disengage’ from China

‘Congress is begging for alternatives to tariffs … there really doesn’t appear to be a coherent, comprehensive strategy,’ its report says

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The US should focus on China rather than antagonising allies, the report’s co-author said. Photo: Reuters

Published: 3:21pm, 5 Nov 2019Updated: 10:42pm, 5 Nov 2019

The United States risks becoming increasingly isolated unless it works with allies to oppose China’s predatory economic policies, according to a new report that maps out a comprehensive strategy of US “partial disengagement” from China.

The report by the non-profit, non-partisan National Bureau of Asian Research calls for a four-part strategy to counter economic and security risks posed by China, including urgent moves to boost information sharing and cooperation with allies.

It also recommended a ceasefire in the 16-month-old tariff war; strengthening defensive measures to reduce US vulnerabilities to Chinese surveillance or sabotage; and increased investment in US innovation and technology.

“None of these things are going to be easy, especially with this administration,” said Charles Boustany, a former Republican congressman from Louisiana who co-authored the report.

“But Congress is begging for alternatives to tariffs. There really doesn’t appear to be a coherent, comprehensive strategy.”