Why US China Trade War
The US China trade war, initiated primarily by the Trump administration in 2018 and largely continued, stems from US concerns over China's unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft, and state subsidies.
Its goal is to rebalance the trade deficit and pressure China for structural economic reforms.
Global Trade Realignments
The trade conflict has prompted significant reconfigurations in global supply chains. For example, Canada's exports to China increased 30 percent in the first half of 2026, demonstrating trade route diversification. Despite ongoing US pressure, China continues to seek new trade partners.
Broader Geopolitical Context
The trade war is part of a larger geopolitical competition for economic and technological dominance. BRICS nations now consistently urge smooth flow of global trade, supply chains, and energy, highlighting a desire for stability amid disruptions. The current influence score for the US China trade war stands at 29 out of 100, indicating its persistent impact on global commerce.