

The whiplash of covering the trade war from inside China
25 snips May 17, 2025
John Ruwitch, NPR's veteran China correspondent, shares his insights on the shifting dynamics of the U.S.-China trade war. He discusses the implications of new tariff agreements and how they impact Chinese manufacturers. Ruwitch also highlights the rise of China's electric vehicle market showcased at the Shanghai Auto Show, revealing innovative trends like camera-based side mirrors. Additionally, he reflects on the challenges faced by journalists in China, capturing personal stories that illuminate the complexities of life in an evolving economy.
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Impact of Tariffs at Canton Fair
- The Canton Fair features 20,000 businesses and 200,000 customers showcasing China's broad manufacturing prowess.
- A mini oven factory halted production due to US tariffs, then quickly resumed but lost many clients.
China's EV Dominance Revealed
- China leads the world in electric vehicle (EV) sales, with over 50% of new cars being EVs.
- The Shanghai Auto Show highlights advanced car technology and showcases dominant Chinese brands.
Reporting Challenges in China
- Reporting conditions in China vary widely and can be challenging due to political sensitivities.
- During COVID lockdowns, locals were open about their frustrations with foreign journalists.