Highlights

• China Daily article features expert insights on five critical global economic and geopolitical questions for 2025.
• Experts from diverse international institutions examine potential trade conflicts, cross-Strait relations, and regional instabilities.
• Analysis reveals complex interconnections between economic policies, geopolitical tensions, and emerging global challenges.

In a recent China Daily piece titled The Five Critical Questions for 2025 (opens in a new tab) multiple experts chime in on discussing the global economy and geopolitical dynamics expected in 2025.

Among the contributors is Alan Bollard, a former director of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and chair of the New Zealand Pacific Economic Cooperation Conference, who offers insights into China's economic challenges and evolving global trade relationships. Klaus F. Zimmermann, a professor at the Free University of Berlin, examines the likelihood of global trade conflicts, while Tang Yonghong of Xiamen University analyzes cross-strait relations. Feng Yujun from Peking University discusses the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, and Hou Yuxiang of Beijing International Studies University delves into Middle East instability.

The article primarily explores how economic policies and geopolitical tensions will shape global dynamics in 2025, addressing five critical questions:

1. China's economic trajectory
2. Potential trade wars
3. Cross-strait relations
4. The Russia-Ukraine conflict
5. Middle East instability

However, it assumes continuity in policies and trends without adequately addressing potential shifts, such as unexpected technological advancements or significant geopolitical realignments. Additionally, the article reveals a China-centric perspective, which is not surprising, particularly in its framing of cross-strait relations and trade issues, which may bias some analyses.

Unanswered questions include:

1. The role of non-state actors in these global conflicts
2. The impact of climate change on economic strategies
3. The feasibility of proposed solutions amidst growing global fragmentation.

While insightful, the article would benefit from a more balanced exploration of alternative perspectives and a deeper dive into emerging factors influencing 2025 outcomes.