China is exhibiting strategic resilience as the United States announces a 10 percent additional tariff on imports from the Chinese mainland, effective February 4, 2025. This development comes shortly after the new U.S. administration, widely regarded as the most hawkish in history towards China, signaled a potential shift towards a more comprehensive containment strategy.
Despite these challenges, experts suggest that China maintains strategic confidence and insight in managing this critical bilateral relationship. The new U.S. administration does not appear to aim for irreversible damage to China, as both nations navigate a significantly altered global landscape over the past eight years.
Recent years have witnessed a shift in the international balance of power. America's share in China's foreign trade has decreased from 14.2 percent in 2017 to approximately 11.2 percent in 2023. Concurrently, China's exports as a share of the international market have risen from 12.8 percent to 14.2 percent, according to official statistics. China has also been steadily enhancing its international standing, expanding its network of partnerships, particularly in the Global South through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the BRICS mechanism.
China's adeptness in navigating China-U.S. relations during challenging periods is evident. For instance, when U.S. policies targeted Chinese tech companies like Huawei, China responded by making significant advancements in chip technology. Similarly, in response to unrest in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China calmly introduced the national security law, restoring stability and reinforcing the rule of law.
The U.S. containment strategy appears to be falling short of its objectives. While the Biden administration has intensified policies against China, including tariffs, technology restrictions, and approaches centered on Taiwan and Xinjiang, these measures have not impeded China's growth. Many analysts anticipate that future containment efforts may involve more tariff increases and information campaigns against China, though China is prepared with countermeasures to address these familiar tactics.
