China’s Response to New US Tariffs: Focus on Stimulus, Trade Partnerships
Sandip Raj Gupta
04/Apr/2025

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China to focus on economic stimulus rather than retaliatory tariffs.
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Stronger trade ties with ASEAN, RCEP nations to offset US impact.
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Beijing aims to sustain 5% GDP growth despite tariff challenges.
China’s Strategic Response to US Tariff Hike
China’s response to US President Donald Trump’s latest tariff escalation will likely focus on economic stimulus, export diversification, and deeper global trade partnerships, according to analysts.
Following Trump’s announcement of a 34% tariff hike on Chinese goods, Beijing called for the US to cancel the tariffs and vowed unspecified countermeasures, but stopped short of announcing immediate retaliatory action.
China’s Economic Shield: Stimulus and Diversification
Rather than imposing counter-tariffs, China is expected to:
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Boost domestic stimulus to offset export declines.
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Diversify trade partnerships to reduce reliance on US markets.
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Strengthen its currency (yuan) against the dollar to maintain purchasing power.
China has already been expanding its fiscal deficit and implementing subsidy programs to stimulate consumption and investment. Beijing has also eased regulatory pressures on private enterprises, signaling renewed support for business growth.
Trade Realignment: ASEAN, RCEP to Play Key Roles
China has been shifting its trade focus towards Southeast Asia and RCEP nations, reducing its dependence on the US market.
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ASEAN is now China’s largest trading partner, surpassing both the EU and US.
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RCEP, the world’s largest trade bloc, strengthens China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific.
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Chinese manufacturers have expanded overseas, ensuring supply chain resilience despite US trade measures.
With Vietnam, Thailand, and other Asian economies also facing new US tariffs, China is positioning itself as a key trade hub for the region.
China’s Cautious Approach: No Immediate US Business Disruptions
Despite tensions, China is unlikely to escalate hostilities against US companies operating in the country. Instead, Beijing may use:
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Export controls on critical minerals needed by US industries.
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Regulatory scrutiny on foreign firms within its domestic market.
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Limited blacklisting measures to maintain leverage without full-scale retaliation.
US-China Relations: No Grand Bargain Expected
While Trump has hinted at potential tariff reductions for a TikTok deal, analysts remain skeptical of a broader US-China trade agreement.
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China’s rapid advancements in AI, robotics, and high-tech sectors are likely to deepen trade tensions.
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Trump’s tariffs are expected to be a long-term pressure tactic rather than a short-term bargaining chip.
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China aims to sustain a 5% GDP growth target despite trade headwinds, relying on stimulus and global partnerships.
As both nations brace for prolonged economic competition, China’s strategy remains clear: strengthen its domestic economy, diversify trade relationships, and reduce reliance on US markets.
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