NGOCSTIP – Xi Jinping has once again proven his strategic skill on the global stage as he secured a major concession from Donald Trump. In a surprising move, Trump agreed to cut tariffs on Chinese goods by ten percent in exchange for promises that China would strengthen its crackdown on fentanyl production. On paper, this looks like a diplomatic breakthrough, easing tensions between the two largest economies. However, this decision also carries serious implications. The tariff cut lowers the minimum rate on Chinese imports to twenty percent, a noticeable drop from previous levels. Trump aims to reduce prices for American consumers while rebuilding economic ties. Yet, critics warn that the move gives Beijing new leverage without guaranteeing results. The risk for Washington lies in history repeating itself, as China has a pattern of offering vague commitments that bring limited benefits to the United States.
Xi Jinping has continuously found ways to gain the upper hand in his economic battle with the Trump administration. While Trump’s tariffs were designed to protect American industries and reduce reliance on Chinese imports, Beijing responded strategically. China imposed its own tariffs on American goods, targeted key US exports like soybeans, and limited access to rare-earth minerals. These actions hurt American farmers and manufacturers, undermining Trump’s domestic support. At the same time, China tightened control over its markets while expanding global trade partnerships beyond the United States. The new deal with Trump gives Xi another opportunity to reinforce China’s economic position while projecting an image of cooperation. Although Trump framed the agreement as a victory, the reality suggests Xi managed to extract concessions while offering limited tangible returns. This dynamic continues to test the balance of power between Washington and Beijing in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Trump’s decision to negotiate with China centers heavily on fentanyl, the synthetic opioid responsible for tens of thousands of American deaths each year. His administration claims that China has begun taking genuine steps to control the export of chemicals used in fentanyl production. Over the summer, Chinese authorities added new precursors to their controlled substance list and cracked down on illegal exports. Trump praised this as progress, citing it as justification for lowering tariffs. Yet, questions remain about China’s long-term commitment. Experts argue that Xi’s promises may not translate into consistent enforcement once the political pressure eases. For Trump, the deal offers short-term political gain by presenting an image of leadership on a major domestic crisis. Still, critics note that the same promises were made in previous talks without lasting results. The gamble is whether this renewed cooperation will actually reduce fentanyl trafficking or simply serve as another symbolic gesture.
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Trump’s concession to China could reshape economic relationships not only with Beijing but also with Washington’s closest allies. Reducing tariffs for China while maintaining or even increasing them for Mexico and Canada risks alienating key trading partners. Both countries have worked to control fentanyl movement across the US border, yet they now see China receiving preferential treatment. This creates potential diplomatic friction in North America while strengthening China’s global standing. Economically, lower tariffs may offer slight relief for American consumers burdened by inflation, but the overall benefit remains uncertain. US manufacturers may continue struggling to compete with cheaper Chinese imports, and rare-earth shortages could persist. As Xi consolidates his economic influence, Trump’s strategy appears reactive rather than visionary. The immediate financial gains may come at the expense of long-term stability, leaving the United States vulnerable to future trade pressure from Beijing.
Trump’s latest move marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing US-China relationship. Xi Jinping emerges as the quiet winner, having secured tangible concessions while maintaining flexibility in future negotiations. The deal, intended to address fentanyl and trade imbalances, may ultimately deepen America’s dependence on China’s supply chains. Meanwhile, Trump faces growing criticism at home for appearing too lenient toward Beijing after years of framing China as an adversary. Economists warn that the tariff reduction might encourage Chinese exporters without providing equivalent advantages to US industries. Politically, Trump hopes to claim victory ahead of the election cycle, showcasing progress on drug enforcement and trade. Yet, the underlying risks remain clear: America may once again find itself outmaneuvered by a calculated and patient Xi. The coming months will reveal whether this agreement delivers real change or becomes another short-lived diplomatic mirage.
This article is sourced from cnn and for more details you can read at ngocstip
Writer: Sarah Azhari
Editor: Anisa
