On November 24, USCET convened the third working group roundtable, bringing together current and former U.S. government officials for a discussion on the future of U.S.-China expertise. The session focused on how U.S. government agencies and offices utilize China expertise, and the challenges shaping the future pipeline of American scholars and practitioners.
From a U.S. government perspective, participants emphasized the continued demand for individuals with China experience and Mandarin proficiency across policy and security sectors. The agencies represented cited an ongoing need for deep language proficiency, cultural fluency, and sustained in-country experience to develop effective analysis and understanding of China’s political and institutional dynamics.
While the group noted a steady decline in the number of Americans pursuing extended study or research in China, particularly at the graduate and early-career stages, the conversation also touched upon concerns about safety, political conditions, and future career prospects that are increasingly shaping student choices. These hesitations are reinforced by practical barriers, including lengthy clearance processes, institutional constraints, and fewer exchange opportunities. While training in third locations remains valuable, participants stressed that it does not fully replicate the experience of living and working in China. Taken together, these dynamics are shrinking the pool of students willing to commit to deep, long-term engagement with China.
Participants voiced a shared concern that overly broad or inconsistently applied measures risk discouraging legitimate academic work and further constricting the pipeline of expertise that the U.S. government relies upon. The need for clearer guidance and more consistent communication was identified as a priority to help students and institutions navigate an increasingly complex landscape. The roundtable concluded with a shared sense that this is a pivotal moment. Participants agreed that the choices made now by governments, universities, and funding bodies will shape the depth and resilience of U.S.-China expertise for years to come.