Trade relations between China and the U.S. face renewed strain as former U.S. President Donald Trump proposes imposing 50% tariffs on Chinese imports. Beijing has pledged to take "resolute countermeasures" to protect its interests, with experts warning that combined existing duties could push total tariffs on some Chinese goods above 120%.
Tu Xinquan, dean of the China Institute for WTO Studies at the University of International Business and Economics, told CGTN that such measures risk accelerating economic decoupling. "This would fundamentally reshape bilateral trade patterns," he said, noting it could disrupt global supply chains spanning electronics, machinery, and consumer goods.
The tensions come as U.S.-China trade reached $575 billion in 2023, despite existing tariffs implemented since 2018. Analysts suggest new levies could particularly impact sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy equipment where both economies compete globally.
While China has stated its preference for dialogue, officials emphasize readiness to defend domestic industries. The developments are being closely monitored by international businesses and governments across Asia, where many economies remain deeply integrated with Chinese manufacturing networks.
