The Journal. China Unleashes a Trade War Arsenal
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Apr 10, 2025 
Lingling Wei, a reporter for WSJ, sheds light on China's formidable trade tactics amidst rising tensions with the U.S. She discusses how China's response has evolved from initial negotiations to preparing for a long-term economic conflict. The conversation dives into the dramatic impact of tariffs, potential global market repercussions, and the challenges of diplomacy under the Trump administration. Wei highlights the complexities of both countries' strategies and suggests we might be in for a protracted standoff with no easy solutions.
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Initial Optimism and Miscommunication
- China initially felt optimistic about the Trump administration due to a pre-inauguration invitation and the absence of immediate tariffs.
- However, a misinterpreted diplomatic call and subsequent tariffs strained the relationship.
Failed Communication Attempts
- China attempted to communicate with the Trump administration through various channels, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi's trip to New York.
- These attempts failed due to mismatched communication levels and the US's desire to speak with officials closer to Xi Jinping.
Breakdown of Communication
- Despite efforts from both sides, communication between the US and China was ineffective, leading to escalating tensions.
- Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs marked a turning point, extinguishing China's hopes for maintaining the bilateral relationship.