China announces US tariffs and the firing of the Vatican’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’
Feb 4, 2025
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Isabel Hilton, founder of China Dialogue and expert on China, and Petri Bertsoff, Monocle's Helsinki correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss China’s new tariffs on US goods, underlining the escalating trade tensions. Hilton illuminates Africa’s burgeoning digital economy as a ripe investment opportunity. Bertsoff highlights the culturally rich impact of the Moomins and shares insights on the intriguing civil trial involving the Vatican's 'Romeo and Juliet,' blending geopolitics with captivating narratives.
China's retaliatory tariffs on US goods reflect escalating trade tensions, impacting critical industries and prompting national security implications.
The Vatican's controversial policy banning workplace marriages raises questions about personal and professional boundaries within religious institutions.
Deep dives
China's Tariff Retaliation
China has implemented counter tariffs on American imports in response to recent tariffs imposed by the United States. The tariffs from the US include a 10% levy on Chinese goods, which prompted China to retaliate by targeting US coal, oil, and liquid natural gas imports. Additionally, China has placed the American clothing company PVH Group on a national security blacklist, affecting their operations. The situation reflects a broader pattern of tit-for-tat actions between the two nations, with China also enacting export restrictions on rare metal products critical for US industries.
US Focus on Panama Canal
The US Secretary of State has called on Panama to modify its management of the Panama Canal due to the increasing Chinese influence in the region. While the Secretary suggests that there's a substantial Chinese military presence, the reality is that Chinese involvement is limited to two port companies involved in container management, with no control over the canal itself. The Panamanian government remains proud of its sovereignty and is taking a technical approach to negotiations, emphasizing national pride in managing the canal independently. The proposed solutions include potential amendments to contracts that could reduce the Chinese foothold while ensuring free passage for US naval ships.
Vatican's Employment Policy Controversy
A couple employed at the Vatican Bank has been dismissed after their marriage, highlighting a controversial new employment policy that bans workplace marriages. The couple is suing for reinstatement and damages, arguing that their marriage predated the law's enactment and suggesting retroactive application is unjust. The Vatican, known for advocating family values, faces criticism for this strict policy that seemingly contradicts its stated beliefs on love and commitment. This case raises broader questions about workplace relationships within religious institutions and how policies can impact personal lives.
The Moomins' Global Success
The Moomins, iconic Finnish characters created by Tuve Jansson, have evolved into a €680 million global business, marking their 80th anniversary. The Moomin brand is successfully engaging with a wide range of partnerships, including collaborations with major companies like Starbucks and Bulgari, extending beyond just children's products. The narrative behind the Moomins is rooted in Jansson’s experiences during the Second World War, symbolizing refuge and belonging amidst chaos. This blend of commercial success and meaningful history emphasizes the enduring appeal and cultural significance of these whimsical characters.
China slaps retaliatory tariffs on the import of US goods and the US secretary of state tells Panama to change its policy on the canal. Then: why the time to invest in Africa’s digital economy is now. Plus: a civil trial begins over the firing of the Vatican’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and why our love of the Moomins continues to grow.