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Wikipedia says the phrase « Chinese junk » refers to wooden Chinese ships dating back to 300 B.C. Today China is busily building steel warships. In 1945 the U.S. produced 72% of the world’s steel, but by 2014 only 5.3%. In contrast, by 2022 the Chinese company China Baowu is the world’s top steel producer, producing 51.9% of the world’s steel.
« President Xi Jinping pledged to build a « fully modern » force rivaling the U.S. military by 2027. A U.S. Defense Department report released in November 2021 states China has the biggest maritime force on the globe, with 355 ships, which is projected to increase to 420 ships within four years and to 460 ships by 2030.
Coincidentally, I am sure, besides the heavy involvement of Chinese companies in logistics, electricity and construction in the Panama Canal, Chinese companies have positioned themselves as the controlling influence at both ends of the canal threatening its « fair access for all nations. » Remember that the Panama Canal is the shorter, safer gateway between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, which is the ideal passage for quickly moving warships.
How is China affording to do all this? Well, United States imports from China were $575.69 billion in 2022 alone.
I would like to share my experience with a few of these Chinese imports. Let’s begin with the electronic circuit boards for Chevrolet Suburban taillights. When I purchased the used car the brake lights did not work, and when the turn signal was activated the dash lights would blink. I thought, I am going to be a while figuring this one out. Examining the taillights, while the car was old, I noticed that the bulbs, foam padding and circuit boards all looked brand new, and – were made in China. I decided to purchased OEM (original equipment manufacturer) taillights from a salvage yard. Once installed, not only did the brake lights work, but the turn signal/flashing dash lights issue was resolved as well.
