Move away from US: China exports emerge strong despite Donald Trump’s tariff chaos; is the record trade surplus sustainable?
Times of IndiaMonday, July 14, 2025 at 2:41:46 PM
Despite the ongoing trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the US under Donald Trump, China’s exports have defied expectations, posting a record $586 billion trade surplus in the first half of the year. While shipments to the US dipped, Chinese companies pivoted effectively, boosting sales to ASEAN nations by 17%. This shift raises questions about whether China can maintain this surplus long-term, especially as global economic pressures persist.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about tariffs—it’s about China’s ability to adapt. The surge in trade with ASEAN countries shows Beijing’s strategic maneuvering to reduce reliance on the US market. But sustainability is the big question: can China keep this up if global demand weakens or if other nations follow America’s protectionist lead? For businesses and policymakers, it’s a sign that trade wars might reshape, but not necessarily cripple, supply chains.
— Curated via WP Now’s
