Chinese salami slicing strategy

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Chinese Salami Slicing Strategy refers to a method of tactical maneuvering and strategic implementation by the Chinese government and its military, the People's Liberation Army, in achieving its territorial and geopolitical objectives. This approach involves taking small, incremental actions that individually seem non-threatening and insignificant but collectively aim to achieve a significant strategic shift without provoking a strong response from opponents. The term is derived from the culinary process of slicing salami, where small slices are cut off, eventually consuming the whole without it seeming like a significant loss at any one time.

Origins and Concept

The concept, though not officially acknowledged by the Chinese government, is widely discussed among international relations and military strategy analysts. It is seen as part of China's broader hybrid warfare and grey zone tactics, which blur the lines between conventional and unconventional warfare, and between peace and conflict, to advance its national interests without triggering an outright war.

Applications

The Chinese Salami Slicing Strategy has been observed in several contexts:

South China Sea

In the South China Sea, China has gradually expanded its presence by building artificial islands and militarizing them, claiming sovereignty over territories also claimed by Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. These incremental steps have significantly enhanced China's strategic position and control over one of the world's busiest maritime routes without leading to direct military confrontation.

India-China Border

Along the India-China border, particularly in the Doklam plateau and Ladakh region, China has engaged in incremental territorial advances and infrastructure development. These actions have led to standoffs with India, but the piecemeal approach has made it challenging for India to respond decisively without escalating into broader conflict.

Cyber Warfare

In the realm of cyber warfare, China has been accused of employing a salami-slicing strategy by conducting low-level cyber intrusions and espionage against other nations' infrastructure and corporations. These actions, while individually below the threshold of war, collectively aim to enhance China's cyber capabilities and strategic position.

Implications

The Chinese Salami Slicing Strategy poses significant challenges for international security and the existing global order. It complicates the ability of states and international organizations to respond effectively, as each action does not warrant a full-scale military response, yet collectively, they significantly alter the strategic landscape. This strategy also tests the limits of international law and norms, particularly in areas like the South China Sea, where sovereignty and maritime rights are contested.

Responses

Responses to the Chinese Salami Slicing Strategy have varied. Regional actors, such as the countries in the South China Sea dispute and India, have sought to bolster their military capabilities and engage in strategic partnerships with other nations. Internationally, there has been a push for a more unified and robust approach to counter China's incremental advances, including through diplomatic channels, military deterrence, and strengthening international legal mechanisms.

Conclusion

The Chinese Salami Slicing Strategy represents a sophisticated approach to modern geopolitical competition. It reflects a strategic patience and long-term planning that seeks to reshape the international order in China's favor, while minimizing the risks of direct conflict. Understanding and countering this strategy requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach that combines military, diplomatic, economic, and legal tools.