U.S.-China Tariff Turmoil: Behind the Closed Doors

The imposing tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump on China last month was met with equal fervor from Beijing. Known for its public criticisms, China shared its disapproval widely through state media, amplifying Mao Zedong's imagery and rhetoric against imperialism, while maintaining a firm stance against yielding to perceived aggressors.

Despite this assertiveness, internal discussions in China reflected growing nervousness over the tariffs' potential economic impact and the risk of losing out to rival nations striking deals with Washington. The complexity further escalated with ill-received U.S. communications on fentanyl, complicating the resolution of disputes.

China's foreign ministry reiterated its resistance to U.S. tariffs, describing them as unprovoked and damaging cooperation avenues, notably in drug control. As diplomatic endeavors unfold, the consequences of the ongoing trade conflicts continue to reverberate across global markets and supply chains.

(With inputs from agencies.)