Xi Jinping writes “struggle” into the Party’s DNA

You gotta fight for your right to Party.

That was Xi Jinping's message to cadres in a July 1 speech marking the Party's 105th anniversary.

Xi Jinping said that being "adept at struggle" is one of the six "superior qualities" behind the Party's staying power.

• "No matter how strong the enemy, how perilous the road, or how severe the challenges, the Party is fearless and never retreats, standing firm as a rock through any storm and leading the nation from victory to victory."

Struggle against what, you might ask? The great bard answered in metaphor:

• "[We face] a period in which strategic opportunities and risks and challenges coexist, and uncertain and unpredictable factors are increasing”
• "[We must] prepare for major tests involving high winds, rough seas, and even tempestuous waves.”

That said, we know the deal: “Struggle” has become a catch-all governing philosophy encompassing everything from US strategic competition and Taiwan to corruption, economic risks, and ideological discipline.

The upshot: Don't get too comfortable.

• As long as "struggle" defines Beijing's approach, the regulatory and political landscape could be redefined and overturned with little notice.

Get smart: Geopolitically, this "security-first, us-versus-them" stance will define Beijing's approach for as long as Xi is calling the shots.

• When it comes to China-US ties, companies should plan for ensuring friction – no matter the short-term meeting and summit theatrics.