If Donald Trump is re-elected, his approach toward Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to be assertive, focusing on economic measures and strategic negotiations. Key aspects of his anticipated strategy include:
Imposing Significant Tariffs: Trump has proposed substantial tariffs on Chinese imports, with plans for a 60% baseline tariff on Chinese goods and the possibility of increasing tariffs up to 200% to deter aggressive actions, such as a potential invasion of Taiwan. These tariffs aim to pressure China economically and protect U.S. industries.
Demanding Fulfillment of Trade Agreements: Trump intends to hold Xi accountable for previous trade commitments, notably a $50 billion agricultural deal. He has stated that his first action upon re-election would be to contact Xi to ensure China honors this agreement, emphasizing support for American farmers.
Leveraging Unpredictability in Foreign Policy: Trump’s foreign policy strategy emphasizes unpredictability, aiming to keep adversaries off balance. This approach includes swift actions to end conflicts and reassessing international alliances, potentially leading to recalibrated relationships with global partners.
Balancing Personal Rapport with Strategic Interests: Despite past expressions of personal rapport with Xi, Trump has demonstrated a willingness to adopt hardline policies when he perceives U.S. interests are at stake. This dual approach suggests that while he may seek to maintain open lines of communication, he is prepared to implement stringent measures to address issues such as trade imbalances and national security concerns.
In summary, a second Trump administration would likely employ a combination of economic pressure, strategic unpredictability, and direct negotiation to manage relations with Xi Jinping, aiming to advance U.S. interests while addressing challenges posed by China’s global actions.
