By John Q. Hosedrinker 
China has responded to the US’s increased tariffs by declaring its readiness to “fight to the end” in the ongoing trade war. The announcement came after President Trump’s statement regarding an additional 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods. This escalation in tensions demonstrates a firm stance from China, despite the potential economic consequences of a protracted trade dispute. The country’s response suggests a willingness to defend its economic interests, signaling a challenging period for international trade relations.
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China Says Will ‘Fight To The End’ In US Trade War: This phrase, “fight to the end,” really sums up China’s unwavering stance in the ongoing trade war with the United States. It’s a clear declaration of their commitment, signaling they’re not backing down. They’re playing a long game, and that’s a stark contrast to the US approach, which is perceived as more reactive and, frankly, a bit chaotic.
From the perspective of many, the US appears to be improvising, especially when you consider the perceived lack of a cohesive strategy. China, on the other hand, is seen as having teams of experts working diligently towards their goals, possessing a strategic vision that goes beyond immediate gains. They’re reportedly executing a long-term plan, something that the US, with its shifting administrations and political cycles, struggles to match. This disparity in approach is a fundamental advantage for China.
The reality on the ground, particularly in sectors like agriculture, shows the impact. Unharvested soybean fields in the US, a direct consequence of China’s reduced purchases, are a vivid illustration of the trade war’s effects. It’s affecting real people and businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, creating economic pain. China, however, has other options and sources to meet their import needs. They’ve diversified their suppliers, effectively mitigating the impact of the trade dispute.
China’s resilience is further amplified by its economic strength and its ability to weather economic storms. Their exports are reportedly rising, and they have almost infinite patience. The US, with its internal challenges and the limited-term of its leadership, is at a significant disadvantage. The US government’s short-term focus is simply outmatched by China’s long-term strategy.
The US, under the current administration, faces other challenges. The focus is on short-term gains and political maneuvering. This approach is often viewed as predictable, making it easier for China to anticipate and counter US moves. China’s strategic advantage is rooted in its ability to wait out the US, a country where policies and leadership are subject to frequent change.
China’s financial leverage, particularly its substantial holdings of US debt, is also a factor. They can potentially influence economic outcomes through this leverage. This position of influence is made more potent by China’s dominance in areas like rare earth minerals. This monopoly gives them additional tools to influence trade dynamics.
It’s worth noting that, while the US is facing challenges, China isn’t without its own. The trade war impacts their economy too, but the general consensus is that they can absorb the shock better. China’s leadership has greater control over its populace, which allows them to implement policies that may require economic sacrifices for the greater good. However, this also allows for an advantageous position over the US which is not always capable of acting so decisively.
The trade war’s impact is felt most by the average person. Tariffs, fluctuating prices, and other economic pressures directly affect consumers. China’s strategy also involves playing the market, manipulating it for their benefit, and is not afraid to leverage the weaknesses of their US counterparts.
The long game is clearly favoring China. They are strategically buying resources from other countries and have the ability to adapt. They also know what to do and when to do it. The US may have allies in East Asia, but the US is also not playing the long game.
While the US has been an important ally in the past, China’s actions are seen as more assertive. China has the advantage of a more unified population and the ability to weather a storm. They are not as restricted in what they can do.
The phrase “fight to the end” may seem like a strong stance, it is a reflection of a long-term strategy. China can afford to play the waiting game. The frequent shifts in the US administration contrast sharply with China’s continuity, and that is a significant advantage in a trade war.