The Bunker – News without the nonsense Trump vs. China – Who will win the trade war? – with Cindy Yu
Apr 16, 2025
Cindy Yu, a journalist and China commentator, dives into the intense U.S.-China trade rivalry sparked by Trump’s tariffs. She discusses how these policies affect American consumers and the global market, challenging the idea that only China bears the cost. The conversation touches on shifting perspectives between cooperation and competition, and China’s strategies to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia while navigating ongoing tensions. Insights on the implications for American manufacturing sentiments add depth to this complex trade landscape.
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China Sees Trump's Trade War Moves
- Beijing saw the initial trade war as planned but viewed the 90-day tariff reprieve as a Trump retreat.
- Market pressures, especially bond markets, influenced Trump's sudden tariff pause decision.
Tariffs Ultimately Hurt American Consumers
- The U.S. trade war costs inevitably hit Americans, complicating political support.
- Supporters may initially back tariffs, misinterpreting who ultimately pays the price.
Trade Rivalry Predates Trump
- U.S.-China tensions existed before Trump but became openly antagonistic under his presidency.
- Prior administrations viewed a prosperous China as beneficial, a view that shifted post-2016.