Former Biden administration official, Rick Waters, has warned that Trump’s aggressive trade policies against multiple countries may be playing into China’s hands. Waters, who previously served as deputy assistant secretary of state for China and Taiwan, expressed concern that the U.S. administration’s broad approach to trade disputes could ultimately benefit China.
Waters pointed out that by alienating so many countries simultaneously, the U.S. may be losing potential allies in its efforts to counter China’s growing influence. He emphasized that China is prepared to weather a prolonged economic conflict with the U.S. and has the ability to retaliate in various ways, such as halting cooperation on issues like fentanyl.
Despite China’s reliance on exports to the U.S., Waters believes that increasing tariffs will not necessarily force Beijing to make concessions. He noted that China values its pride and historical independence, making it less likely to bow to external pressure. Waters likened the current economic relationship between the U.S. and China to a troubled marriage heading towards a potential economic divorce.
Overall, Waters’ comments suggest that the U.S. needs to reassess its trade tactics in order to effectively counter China’s influence on the world stage. By alienating potential allies and underestimating China’s ability to withstand economic pressure, the U.S. risks playing into China’s hands and potentially weakening its own position in global trade.
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