Ceasefire in US-China Trade Wars: Realities and Prospects
Recent meetings between US and Chinese leaders have sparked hopes for easing trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.
However, experts and exporters warn that this ‘ceasefire’ period is temporary and unlikely to withstand the test of time.
Following the October 30th meeting, US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping took steps toward alleviating tariffs, lowering duties on a range of goods.
Meanwhile, Chinese exporters responded cautiously, emphasizing that the resolution of the trade conflict is only a short-term victory.
They assure that despite tariff reductions, their plans for diversifying supply chains and expanding into markets beyond the US remain relevant.
Business members in China express optimism about improved cooperation with American clients but remain cautiously hopeful, understanding that trade tensions could escalate again.
Many exporters have also learned lessons from previous unpredictability and are actively seeking new markets—Europe, Africa, and Asia—to reduce reliance on the US.
Conversely, US companies are reconsidering their supply chains and actively expanding production in Vietnam and other regional countries, creating new opportunities and challenges.
Analysts note that despite the current easing of tensions, core issues between the US and China remain unresolved, and a return to previous levels of trade conflict remains a real possibility.
All these developments form part of a broader geopolitical struggle, shaping the future of the international trade system over the coming years.