China Faces Economic Headwinds That Could Slow Its Rise

China's economic growth once seemed inevitable to surpass the US, but recent issues like Covid lockdowns, property slump, and declining consumer confidence have raised doubts.

The US has started predicting China's decline, citing limited future growth potential. This pits the two in a "narrative war."

China still leads in metrics like purchasing power parity and contributes 30% of global growth, but must revive investor confidence and domestic issues.

The widened GDP gap with the US gives Washington an upper hand in trade talks and relations with developing nations relying on China.

Chinese leaders see national strength as multifaceted, so focus on high-quality development, but delays in addressing economic troubles invite criticism.