U.S.-China trade dispute: China asserts being on the 'moral high ground'
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In the wake of his return to the White House, President Donald Trump has unleashed a wave of tariffs, imposing a 10% levy on most US trading partners and a whopping 145% tariff on numerous Chinese goods. Beijing, in turn, has responded with tariffs of their own, slapping a staggering 125% on US goods.
Speaking in Beijing, senior economic planner Zhao Chenxin was unyielding in his stance, proclaiming that China is "on the right side of history." According to Zhao, the US is playing a dangerous game of "cardistry," engaging in bullying tactics and going back on their word. He emphasized that only by aligning with the world and upholding morality could China secure its future.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the tumultuous tariff policy, arguing that it creates "strategic uncertainty," leaving the US with the upper hand. When asked about Bessent's comments, Beijing expressed a desire for fair and respectful dialogue, stating that the US should cease its threats and coercion if it hopes to resolve the issue through dialogue and consultation.
As the deadline for trade agreements approaches in July, dozens of countries risk being hit with higher, country-specific rates. Yet, Beijing has vowed to stand its ground in this trade war, denying any negotiations with Washington. However, the economic stress is mounting, with China's economy—long dependent on exports—feeling the strain.
"External pressures are increasing," said Yu Jiadong of China's labor ministry. He noted that the US tariffs have created challenges for some export-oriented companies, potentially affecting the jobs of millions of workers.
The impact of these tariffs is far-reaching, with estimates suggesting a potential 2.4% GDP decline in China for 2025[1] and 16 million jobs in sectors like communication equipment, apparel, and chemicals facing increased risk[2]. These tariffs have disrupted supply chains in Asian manufacturing hubs, triggering concerns of regional economic slowdowns[1][2].
Despite these challenges, China is working to counterbalance the effects of reduced foreign direct investment and weakened business sentiment. Their strategy includes supporting affected workers and industries, boosting domestic demand, and seeking alternative export markets[1][2]. However, global trade restrictions on Chinese goods like electric vehicles pose significant hurdles[1].
© 2025 AFP
[1] "US-China Trade War: The Global Impact," Cornell University, Accessed May 22, 2023.[2] "The Economic Impact of US-China Trade Tensions," Goldman Sachs, Accessed May 22, 2023.
- The United States and China have been locked in a tumultuous trade dispute, with President Donald Trump imposing high tariffs on various goods from trading partners, including a 145% tariff on numerous Chinese goods.
- Zhao Chenxin, a senior economic planner in Beijing, has condemned the US actions, referring to them as a dangerous game of "cardistry" and accusing the US of engaging in bullying tactics and going back on their word.
- The 2025 outlook for the United States and China is uncertain, with potential economic consequences such as a 2.4% GDP decline in China and the risk of losing 16 million jobs in sectors like communication equipment, apparel, and chemicals.
- As the trade war continues, China is isolating itself, refusing to negotiate with Washington and seeking alternative export markets to counterbalance the effects of reduced foreign direct investment and weakened business sentiment. These actions indicate a shift in general news and politics towards a more isolated China.
