The Soviet Union was badly afflicted by dutch disease and engaged in an eye wateringly expensive arms race. China isn't.
Though, because of their lack of mineral and agricultural wealth is that if they were subjected to a successful shipping blockade they would begin to starve relatively quickly.
This lack of fuel/food security is why they're so domineering in the South China sea, why they're spending ridiculous amounts on the new silk road, why they're so keen to get the US and the rest of the world hooked on Chinese exports and why they're leaders in green energy.
Though, because of their lack of mineral and agricultural wealth is that if they were subjected to a successful shipping blockade they would begin to starve relatively quickly.
This lack of fuel/food security is why they're so domineering in the South China sea, why they're spending ridiculous amounts on the new silk road, why they're so keen to get the US and the rest of the world hooked on Chinese exports and why they're leaders in green energy.