After 2020, nothing is surprising. But it is disturbing. Due to the way container shipments are being managed, food isn’t going where it should be. That’s never good. Especially not during a pandemic that keeps extending. And at the heart of this dilemma is – China. Shipping containers are being sent back empty to China, who is paying a premium for them to arrive empty. Why?
China operates from aggressive 5 year plans, and are extremely competitive with the west ie must win at any cost. China’s economy is recovering from the pandemic which, as they likely see things, gives them the lead as they ramp up their exports. It’s kinda hard to export stuff without something to send it in. China is taking all those containers for its goods, which leaves the rest of the world with stockpiles and problems mounting.
Unfortunate and unforeseen circumstance? That would be a giant nope burger from my stance. China’s engagement in overt cyber espionage practices the past 12 months speaks volumes. So too does their overt aggression toward Taiwan and handling of Hong Kong. They want all the marbles. China plays the long game better than anyone and positioning themselves in a place to benefit at the cost of others is part of their playbook for ultimate superiority over their long-perceived adversary, the west. We need to be watching closely, and asking always: what is the bigger picture?
Issues and Intersections 