ABC News Daily
How China could win Trump’s trade war
Apr 14, 2025
Neil Thomas, a Fellow of Chinese politics at the Asia Society Policy Institute, dives deep into the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China. He outlines how China, despite facing economic challenges like a collapsing property market and high youth unemployment, may leverage its position to gain an advantage. Thomas discusses China's strategic responses, including its efforts to influence Australia's stance and the implications of tariffs. His insights reveal why President Xi Jinping might already be ahead in this economic showdown.
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Quick takeaways
- China's strategic focus on self-reliance amid U.S. tariffs may allow it to strengthen domestic industries and reduce dependence on imports.
- The U.S. faces political challenges that could hinder its ability to navigate the trade war effectively, especially with upcoming elections.
Deep dives
Trade War Dynamics and Impact
The tariffs imposed by Donald Trump on China have escalated significantly, reaching a staggering 145% on various Chinese goods. This has led China to retaliate with its own hefty tariffs and restrictions, including a 125% tax on U.S. imports. The rapidly changing landscape is causing economic strain, resulting in a dramatic downturn in trade relationships, underlining the complexity and seriousness of the trade war. The U.S. administration's fluctuating stance, such as temporarily exempting certain electronics from tariffs, only adds to the uncertainty for both nations involved.
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