Evolution of U.S.-China Trade Relationship

SOURCE npr.org
In 1937, Carl Crow wrote a book promoting trade between the U.S. and China, envisioning a market of 400 million customers. However, due to political upheavals, the trade relationship shifted towards utilizing China's cheap labor force. This eventually led to the outsourcing of manufacturing to China, transforming its economy and impacting American jobs.

Key Points

  • Carl Crow's book '400 Million Customers' envisioned a vast market in China but was overshadowed by political events
  • Trade relationship between the U.S. and China evolved to focus on utilizing China's cheap labor force
  • Technological advancements and political decisions contributed to the rise of 'Made in China' products in the U.S.

Pros

  • Opening up trade with China led to economic transformations and growth in both countries
  • Enabled American companies to tap into China's large labor force for manufacturing

Cons

  • Impacted American jobs as companies began outsourcing production to China
  • Initial vision of selling products to Chinese consumers shifted to utilizing Chinese workers for manufacturing