Indeed a major milestone, though more interesting will be when they surpass the EU and US in imports. To some extent being the world's chief importer proffers

Indeed a major milestone, though more interesting will be when they surpass the EU and US in imports. To some extent being the world's chief importer proffers the most power: because suddenly everyone is dependent on you for what they sell. You become the customer. Once China becomes the "world's customer" the US's power will be severely eroded.