On April 3, 2013, more than 250 people attended the 12th annual Bob and Kim Griffin “Building U.S.- China Bridges” lecture with Ted C. Fishman, bestselling author of “China, Inc.” and “Shock of Gray.” He delivered an engaging lecture titled “China, Inc.? China, Partners? Or China, Limited? A look at the future of China and the world in its influence.”
Mr. Fishman began the lecture by highlighting impressive connections between Minnesota and China. He noted that approximately 1 in 8 jobs in Minnesota are linked to trade and that China is the second largest trading partner with Minnesota. Minnesota’s case is especially interesting because it was the only U.S. state that had a positive trade balance with China at the time “China, Inc.” was written.
Mr. Fishman went on to share stories from his many visits to China and his observations of China’s recent economic development trends. Although Mr. Fishman observed various problems such as corruption and environmental pollution, he believes economic development in China is helping Chinese people realize their dreams closer to their hometowns. “China is not a problem; it is a success in the world.”
Mr. Fishman referenced the air pollution in major cities in China and its impact on urban populations. He believes the diminishing air quality is linked to market reform, which has benefited both U.S. and Chinese people. He noted that although American manufacturing is down, manufacturing output in the U.S. is near all time highs. He maintains that American manufacturing, feeling pressure from lower cost Chinese manufacturing, has resulted in American families saving around $680 a year. Mr. Fishman believes a lot of that comes from big retailers in the Twin Cities that taught Chinese companies how to be good manufacturers and bring those goods to the U.S.
Mr. Fishman shared beliefs that market reform has benefited the Chinese people the most. He says, “China has made amazing progress and it’s progress that we should all applaud.”
Mr. Fishman also touched on topics such as China’s aging population and family planning policy, urbanization process, and the new generation of Chinese political leaders. During the questionand-answer session, Mr. Fishman commented on Chinese families that have not benefited from market reform, the difference between the U.S and Chinese educational systems, and provided advice on student international career prospects for students, among other topics.
About the Lecture
The lecture series is endowed through a generous gift from Bob and Kim Griffin. The Griffins are committed to promoting mutual respect between U.S. and Chinese cultures and are passionate about connecting people with China.