U.S. tariffs and trade tactics under former President Donald Trump are back in focus as economic tensions with China hit new highs—and experts warn the strategy could backfire spectacularly.
Recent moves to hike tariffs on the Chinese mainland to 125% sparked fiery rhetoric from Beijing, with the Foreign Ministry declaring: "Pressuring, threatening, and extortion won't work." Meanwhile, China's 2024 white paper doubled down on rejecting U.S. 'economic bullying,' stressing that "protectionism leads up a blind alley."
But here's the twist: UN data reveals the U.S. relies heavily on China as a buyer for key exports—from soybeans (51.7%) to medical equipment (9.4%). With China diversifying its global trade partnerships since 2018, analysts argue "Washington has more to lose" in a prolonged showdown.
Trump’s signature "Art of the Deal" approach—using tariffs as leverage—may be setting the stage for a self-inflicted economic slump. As one Treasury official admitted: "We've been overwhelmed by the response…from allies." But will the gamble pay off?
Beijing’s refusal to yield raises the stakes. With China’s exports to the U.S. dropping to 14.7% of its total (from 19.2% in 2018), experts warn America’s "maximum pressure" tactic risks accelerating a recession many already fear.
Trade Tensions Escalate: Is the U.S. Bargaining Its Way Into Recession?
