The Global Story Is the US-China trade war back on?
12 snips
Oct 15, 2025 
Stephen McDonnell, BBC China correspondent with over 20 years in the region, offers incisive insights into the renewed US-China trade tensions. He explains how both countries have escalated tariffs to unsustainable levels and discusses the impact on specific industries, from soybeans to Christmas decorations. McDonnell highlights the significance of rare earth minerals in negotiations and examines how China's economic evolution is affecting its trade strategies. As leaders prepare to meet, he outlines the handshake politics that could shape future relations.
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Tariffs Hurt Domestic Consumers
- McDonnell argues being tough on China is distinct from supporting tariffs.
- He stresses tariffs mainly make US consumers pay more, not collect revenue from China.
Christmas Decorations Rushed Ahead Of Tariffs
- Chinese exporters rushed Christmas decorations to the US to beat tariff hits.
- US consumers then ended up paying higher prices for those goods.
China Replaced US Soybean Suppliers
- Soybean purchases from the US collapsed after tariffs, hitting American farmers.
- China replaced US suppliers with Latin American exporters like Brazil and Argentina.