The Taiwan Crisis and Its Impact on China–U.S. Relations (2016 –2023)

Abstract

The Taiwan issue has become one of the most significant sources of tension in relations between the United States and the People's Republic of China in recent years. Although the disagreement over Taiwan's status has a long historical background, its importance has increased significantly due to the intensification of strategic competition between the two countries from 2016 to 2023. This study aims to examine the impact of the Taiwan crisis on China–U.S. relations and to analyze its political, security, and economic consequences. The main research question is how the Taiwan crisis has affected the nature and trajectory of relations between China and the United States during this period. The study hypothesizes that the crisis has intensified strategic rivalry, increased political and security tensions, strengthened military presence and preparedness, expanded deterrence policies, intensified technological competition, and deepened mutual distrust. Nevertheless, economic interdependence has prevented a complete economic decoupling and the cessation of bilateral trade and economic cooperation. This research adopts a descriptive–analytical method with an explanatory approach, based on the theory of realism, and draws upon library sources, official documents, strategic reports, and statistical data. The findings indicate that the Taiwan crisis has become one of the principal factors shaping China–U.S. relations and has played a significant role in influencing the political, security, and economic policies of both countries. Furthermore, the continuing rivalry between the major powers suggests that the Taiwan crisis will remain a key factor affecting relations between Beijing and Washington, as well as regional and international political, security, and economic dynamics.