Marketplace Morning Report U.S. tariffs fail to dent China's trade surplus
Dec 8, 2025
Nick Marsh, a BBC correspondent known for his insights on international economic data, discusses how China's trade surplus has soared past $1 trillion, despite a significant drop in exports to the U.S. He highlights how Chinese manufacturers have adapted, redirecting goods to Southeast Asia and Europe. Hugh Schofield, a BBC reporter on French politics, elaborates on the ongoing budget disputes in France's parliament and the potential rise of populism as political divisions deepen. Together, they offer a captivating look at global economic dynamics and political challenges.
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China's Trade Surplus Keeps Growing
- China ran a goods trade surplus of about $1 trillion between January and November by selling more to other markets.
- Nick Marsh reports Chinese exporters replaced lost U.S. orders with buyers in Southeast Asia and Europe.
U.S. Demand Falls, Total Exports Rise
- Exports to the U.S. plunged roughly 29% in November, yet total exports still rose 6% year-on-year.
- Nick Marsh highlights that tariffs and the trade war reduced U.S. demand but didn't halt Chinese production or global sales.
Manufacturing Scale Enables Market Shifts
- China’s manufacturing scale and efficient supply chains let it find alternative buyers quickly.
- Nick Marsh says Southeast Asia and Europe soaked up goods that might have gone to the U.S.