Asia Global Institute

The risks and opportunities for China's economy under the trade war

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

The risks and opportunities for China's economy under the trade war

Heiwai Tang, AGI Director, analyzes the impact of Trump's tariff policies on China's economy in the Financial Times , noting both dangers and opportunities.

While these policies pose short-term pressures, China can leverage supply chain resilience, domestic demand, and strategic overseas expansion to mitigate risks. Trump's objectives include alleviating the US debt crisis and weakening China's supply chain position. However, China's "China plus one" strategy has fostered trade relationships with other regions, helping to blunt the impact. To counter trade barriers, Chinese firms should diversify markets and carefully assess overseas investments. China's vast domestic market and government support for consumption present growth opportunities. While high savings rates and other economic factors may hinder rapid consumption growth, the "dual circulation" strategy aims to boost the domestic market, potentially creating new opportunities amidst challenges.

Read the full article here. (Chinese only)

Author

Heiwai Tang

Director, Asia Global Institute

Heiwai Tang

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