Jim Tankersley, an economic policy reporter at The New York Times, discusses how President Biden has adopted and intensified Trump's trade war with China. Topics include Biden's tough stance on China, possible tariff increases on electric vehicles, and the continuation of anti-China policies in the clean energy sector.
Biden's trade policy mirrors Trump's toughness on China, focusing on fair competition and addressing 'cheating' in trade.
Biden escalates anti-China measures, potentially leading to a trade war, particularly targeting clean energy industry for securing American interests.
Deep dives
Biden's Approach to China Policy
President Biden follows a stance on China policy that aligns surprisingly with former President Trump's approach in certain aspects. Contrary to expectations of reversing Trump's policies, Biden emphasizes fair competition, echoing sentiments of China 'cheating' in trade. Surprisingly, Biden builds on Trump's anti-China moves, edging towards his versions of a potential trade war with China.
Trump's Trade War with China
Upon taking office, Trump set a precedent by initiating a trade war with China through imposing tariffs on various imports, including steel and aluminum. The tariffs led to retaliatory measures by China, sparking a full-blown trade war between the two nations. Economically, the tariffs did not yield the desired results in terms of bringing back manufacturing jobs, despite their popularity. Politically, however, they resonated well with voters, aligning them with Trump's stance against China.
Biden's Extension of Trump's Policies
President Biden extends Trump's anti-China policies in a strategic move aimed at securing America's position in the clean energy industry. Biden enhances tariffs on green tech items, shields American industries through subsidies, and aspires to lead an international coalition against China's dominance. By fortifying American industry and supporting targeted sectors, Biden navigates towards a competitive stance against China in the realm of clean energy.
Donald Trump upended decades of American policy when he started a trade war with China. Many thought that President Biden would reverse those policies. Instead, he’s stepping them up.
Jim Tankersley, who covers economic policy at the White House, explains.
Guest: Jim Tankersley, who covers economic policy at the White House The New York Times.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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