I wouldn't really disagree with any of that Ozark.
They're exporting food, a sign that they are finally feeding most of the population. The government has carefully relaxed some of their control, reinforcing nationalism,without giving up anything important.
They're doing things that I wouldn't have expected, such as in the case of Hong Kong, so I suspect Taiwan will see alot of patience.
The why is something to worry about, is it to buy time?

Modern warfare between super powers is no mystery, you inflict enough damage to bring them to their knees with a strong defense against retaliation.
Is China's buildup defensive or offensive? I think its defensive and question is who do they think will attack, and why?