Trump’s tariffs offer China an opportunity riding a dangerous wind

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump declared “Liberation Day” for the United States by initiating a global trade war. For the rest of the world, it was a day marked by anger, frustration and regret.

China, deemed one of “the worst offenders” by Trump, was hit hardest at a time when its economy is struggling. The Ministry of Commerce promptly expressed opposition and vowed to implement countermeasures to safeguard China’s rights and interests.

However, Beijing should view Trump’s extreme measures as an opportunity. Although the tariffs deliver a short-term blow to China’s economy, these measures could serve as a catalyst for China to increase domestic stimulus and take decisive steps to forge closer trade and economic ties with its major trading partners who were also affected by the higher US tariffs.