The 2020 negotiations with China, prompted by tariffs levied by the United States, is a public demonstration from which all of us can learn. Both parties have distinct approaches to negotiation that inform how they have positioned themselves and neither party wants to lose face on the world stage. It’s not only a clash of world powers who have very different goals, in many ways, it is a clash of cultures as well.

My guest on this episode is Allan Tsang, a man who is uniquely qualified to comment on what’s happening in this International trade negotiation. Allan is a Chinese-American who was born in China, raised in Ghana (Africa), and moved to the U.S. around 1990. His career path took him from design, to instructional technology, to conflict analysis and resolution. He’s been doing high-level consulting for large organizations, entrepreneurs, and startups in the areas of strategy and negotiation since the mid-90s. Join us for this fascinating conversation that reveals the importance of a long-view strategy in negotiations and hones in on specific negotiation tactics being used by both sides. 

Outline of This Episode

• [1:01] The unique and valuable perspective Allan brings to the China situation
• [3:58] What’s going on between the United States and China?
• [4:49] The impact of the tension on average people in both countries
• [7:23] The strong points in the U.S. side of the negotiation
• [9:48] Missed opportunities by the United States
• [15:25] What the U.S. must change to compete with China’s long-term goals
• [18:54] Allan’s one piece of advice for President Trump
• [20:47] One piece of advice for President Xi of China
• [21:45] Lessons for the average negotiator from this standoff

Resources & People Mentioned

Get a Free Ticket to the Spark Event in February at:

Website: ScoutRFP

Ticket Code: ninja2020

Connect with Allan Tsang

• Allan’s website: www.88Owls.com
• Follow Allan on LinkedIn

Connect With Mark

• Follow Negotiations Ninja on Twitter: @NegotiationPod
• Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
• Follow Negotiations Ninja on LinkedIn
• Connect on Instagram: @NegotiationPod

Subscribe to Negotiations Ninja