During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Adeyemo said that “China is our top strategic competitor.” “Where China is not willing to play on a level playing field, it’s important that we hold them accountable in the international system.” Taking such action with other countries, Adeyemo added, would better “demonstrate to the Chinese that they’re isolated when they violate the rules.”

According to California Magazine, Adeyemo “will likely take the lead in implementing a new economic strategy with respect to China.” Earlier in January, Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen, after acknowledging the importance of sanctions for cybersecurity and other threats, said that she will ask Adeyemo to “quickly” begin a review of current U.S. sanction policy if he is confirmed. Deputy Secretary Adeyemo started a review of U.S. economic and financial sanctions on April 1, 2021. According to an official statement by U.S. Treasury, Deputy Secretary Adeyemo noted the importance to ensure sanctions remain “a strong, viable option in years to come.” The statement also highlighted “the value of coordination with allies and partners” regarding the use of sanctions. 

Given the ongoing U.S.-China tech rivalry, this task could make Adeyemo further involved in U.S.-China relations. 

During an April, 2021 meeting with members of the Bank Policy Institute, Adeyemo addressed how the American Jobs Plan will position U.S. to outcompete China. 

Adeyemo appears to strongly believe in the interconnectivity of the world economy. In a keynote address at an event in 2016, he acknowledged a positive correlation between Chinese economic growth and global–and therefore, American–economic growth.